SUPPORTING Southend United can be a challenge and the issues which have recently been reported in the Echo, do little to diminish this feeling.

That challenge can be too much for some and we have seen fans drift away through the years, disillusioned by off field shenanigans.

Others are not interested in any of that and just want to see their side win (ideally every game) – sadly, the call of the Premier League is too much to resist for many, as let’s face it we are a League Two club So what could we possibly be cheerful about at this time?

Well, quite a bit actually – despite the monthly expectations of doom, there are clearly two parties who believe we are worth funding.

Of course, as time goes on that may alter, but, for today (ie Friday the 18th October) …here are some good reasons.

If we were to win tonight – we would be temporarily two points off leading the division – not bad for a club in turmoil and hopefully worthy a shout or two – so why not get down to the Hall tonight and help give everyone a lift? Why not also have a drink and something to eat too? Southend United cannot survive on current crowds with the current spend pattern, so we have to rely on a benefactor.

How many Southend fans like the idea that Ron Martin and/or his web of companies including Sainsbury’s are actually keeping us going?

Whether you like it or not, that is what is happening.

So make that journey and you will see several products of our excellent youth policy, a set up the Shrimpers Trust is very happy to be the sponsor of.

We feel very proud that in some small way our money (from members) has helped towards what is now become a reasonable conveyor belt of talent.

Sadly, some of these youngsters never get to our first team as they are sold on for various reasons. But why not join the Trust and help find the next Dan Bentley or Jack Payne?

Of course that has already happened and step forward Ted Smith, who has recently returned from his England under 18 debut.

Go younger still and see what the football club and the Shrimpers Trust are building for tomorrow’s supporters.

The new Junior Blues is a must join group for the under 16s.

Above all else, I'd like to ask everyone who considers themselves to be a Southend supporter, and especially those who have stayed away for off-the-field reasons, to reconsider attending.

By staying away, the finances worsen and we become more reliant on the owner, and that, surely, is counterproductive.

So come along tonight and support YOUR club.

>If you'd like more information on the Shrimpers Trust, please visit our website, www.shrimperstrust.co.uk. You can contact us via info@shrimperstrust.co.uk or come and visit us in the Shrimpers Bar before tonight's game."