SOUTHEND United striker Noel Hunt hopes to pack a punch against Coventry City tomorrow – but only when his brother Stephen is not nearby.

The siblings could come up against each other for the first time in their professional careers at Roots Hall this weekend.

And Hunt hopes it will be far less eventful than the duo’s never to be forgotten encounter in their youth.

“The last time we were in opposing teams we ended up having a fight with each other and both got red cards,” recalled Hunt.

“To make matters even worse it was our dad who was the referee!

“It was a long time ago now, we were kids back in Ireland but I think it’s because of that passion that we probably both ended up going on to play professionally.

“We haven’t actually played each other since then so but we’re really close so I’m sure it wouldn’t happen again if we do end up going head to head on Saturday.”

The Hunt brothers have been far more used to lining up in the same side having played alongside each other at Reading, Ipswich Town and also with Republic of Ireland.

But the Shrimpers striker hopes to come out on top tomorrow as Phil Brown’s side, who sit ninth in League One, look to get back to winning ways.

“It was a massive point for us last weekend at Peterborough after the three defeats which came before that but now we want to go one better against Coventry,” said Hunt, who came off the bench at London Road.

“Of course I always hope to be playing especially this weekend because it’s a really big game.

“But it’s good we have competition for places and I’m ready whenever the manager needs me to play.”

Hunt’s brother, Stephen, will also be hoping to be called up by Coventry chief Tony Mowbray.

The midfielder joined the Sky Blues at the start of the new year and, after improving his fitness in training, he is now pushing to make his debut at Roots Hall this weekend.