KEVIN Maher feels Southend United are in a “better place” ahead of Saturday's clash at Hartlepool United.

The Shrimpers kicked off their National League campaign with a 1-1 draw against York City last time out.

But Maher is confident Blues are now ready to kick on after a good week at Boots & Laces.

“The lads have been really good in training and very bright,” said Maher.

“We’ve got a point on the board and we move onto this week’s game now off the back of a good week.

“I feel like everyone is in a better place again.

“We’ve been at it in training and it will stand us in good stead.”

The Shrimpers will be hoping to show that against Hartlepool this weekend.

But Maher expects a stern test against Darren Sarll’s side.

“You’re always going to be tested away from home, none more so than at Hartlepool, said the Blues boss.

“Darren has gone in as manager and you can see already exactly what you’re going to get.

“They will test you and they had a great result at Yeovil at the weekend.

“They will be looking to build on that in their first home game in front of their own fans.”

Saturday’s match will be Sarll’s first at home in the league since taking over at Hartlepool in April.

And Maher believes the 41-year-old will make Pools competitive again this season.

“He did a brilliant job with Woking getting them in to the play-offs,” said Maher.

“The year after didn’t quite work but you know they’ll be competitive.

“Every game we’ve played against his sides have been tight and not much in it either way.

“I expect much of the same on Saturday but it’s a game we’re looking forward to.”

And Maher is certain Blues travelling fans will be playing their part again.

“Last year the numbers we took everywhere we went and the noise they made for the players was brilliant,” said Maher.

“They feed off that and I’m sure we’ll take big numbers again this weekend.

“We want to give them something to cheer as well.”

But Blues will again be without Noor Husin despite the midfielder making progress with a shin problem.

“He’s good and he’s been training more around the team which is pleasing,” said Maher.

“He’s been out so long we’ve got to manage him and make sure he’s ready but it’s a definite plus seeing him out on the grass again.”