SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher expects another stern test at Altrincham this weekend.

The Shrimpers head into the clash unbeaten in their last five away games.

But Maher knows Phil Parkinson's side will be difficult to beat.

"We've got a bit of form away from home but we're coming up against another tough team we've always had very tough and very close games with," said Maher.

"They're very well coached and were a play-off team last year.

"They're getting going this year now too."

Altrincham sit 10th in the table and head into tomorrow's contest having scored eight goals in their last two games. 

"It's a really tough game and they've scored a lot of goals recently," said Maher.

"They were similar to us at the start of the season.

"When you lose players, there's a lot of change and injuries it takes time to get back to what they were but it looks like they're doing that now.

"They're always well coached and well managed and you can see that coming back.

"They always have exciting players on the pitch so we always know this is a tough game."