LEE Barnard wants to help Southend United end their MK Dons hoodoo at Roots Hall tomorrow night.

The Shrimpers have never beaten the Dons in the six previous meetings between the two teams.

But Barnard is hoping it can be a case of seventh time lucky for his side.

“I’ve heard people mention that MK Dons are a bogey side for us and we want to go out and the curse,” said Blues top goalscorer who has already netted 13 times this season.

“They had a bad result last weekend losing 5-1 at Charlton so it might not be a good time to be playing them as they will want to bounce back but we’re looking forward to it.

“They are one of the best teams in this league and we want to try and upset them.”

Barnard is also determined to gain revenge for the Shrimpers’ 2-0 defeat at stadium:mk in the second round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy last month.

Southend produced their worst performance of the season that night.

And Barnard is keen to make amends.

“It was embarrassing the last time we played them,” admitted the 25-year-old.

“We were very poor and that makes us even more determined to put one over on them.

“They’re a good team too so I’m sure it will be a good game and hopefully we can win it.”

Barnard also hopes to again hit the back of the net as he aims to continue his fantastic start to the season.

The former Mayflower School is enjoyed his most prolific first team season ever and he again wants to be on target against the Dons.

“Things have been going well for me this year and it would be great to keep it going,” said Barnard.

“It’s a big game and I would love score another one or two goals.”

Barnard’s improved strength and fitness have helped him hit top form and he feels much of that is down to the work he has done with the club’s strength and conditioning coach Laurence Bloom.

“Laurence has been a massive help to me since he came in,” said Barnard.

“I done a lot more on the weights and looked at my diet and I’m sure it’s all helping. I feel strong and it’s all doing me a lot of good so hopefully that can continue.”