SOUTHEND United’s under 21 side will continue their pre-season preparations at Lowestoft Town tonight.

The Shrimpers youngsters started their warm up fixtures for the forthcoming campaign with a 5-1 defeat against Chelsea under 23s on Saturday.

But coach Kevin Maher is looking forward to a different kind of test this evening.

“I think tonight’s game is going to be another good test for the players and it’s good to be able to vary things up in pre-season,” said Maher.

“On Saturday we played against a Chelsea side with some very, very good players like you would expect.

“It was a tough game to be starting of with but it was a good exercise in terms of our fitness and that’s exactly what these games are all about.

“Tonight will be a different kind of challenge against a non league team at a non league ground but it’s one I’m looking forward to.”

And Maher has already been impressed by the fitness levels of his squad.

“The players came back in good shape and have been working hard in training so the fitness levels are good,” said the former Blues captain.

“All that’s missing now is that match sharpness you need but that can only come by playing games which is the stage we’re now entering.

“We’re building things up and we’re all looking forward to the season getting underway.”