SOUTHEND United’s assistant manager Dave Penney wants his players to again rise to the big occasion when they take on promotion rivals Chesterfield at Roots Hall tomorrow.

The fifth placed Shrimpers will be keen to see off the Spireites, who sit third in the League Two standings.

And Penney is hoping for another dominant display.

“We’ve had some big games in recent weeks which the players have responded well too and we want them to again step up to the plate on Saturday,” said Penney.

“We had big matches and crowds when we played against both Portsmouth and Millwall and hopefully the fans can turn up in big numbers again at the weekend.

“It really spurs on us and we want this game to be another good result for us at home so even more people will be tempted to come along to our matches.

“It’s only natural that people want to be associated with a winning team and it is aim to make sure that’s what we remain.”

The Shrimpers head in to the match with just one defeat in their last 13 games But Chesterfield have also been in good form and Penney is certain they will be in good shape on Saturday.

“They have their big players back now like Gary Roberts and Sam Morsy so they will be strong against us and Jimmy Ryan has extended his contract too,” said Penney.

“We’ve had two really good games against them this season and I’m sure it will be another one tomorrow because both teams like to play good football.”

Blues have no new injury concerns ahead of the game but are hoping to bring right-back Luke O’Neill in from Burnley in time for him to play.

That would also allow Ryan Leonard to return to the midfield.