SOUTHEND United coach Dave Huzzey feels tonight’s FA Youth Cup clash at Charlton Athletic will be a ‘massive test’ for Blues.

The Shrimpers made it through to the second round of the competition after a thrilling 4-3 win at Leyton Orient.

But Huzzey expects the Addicks to be even tougher to beat.

“Charlton are one of the top category two clubs in the country,” said Huzzey.

“We play them in pre-season a lot and funnily enough the one time we didn’t we’ve got them in the FA Youth Cup.

“But they’re normally a strong, physical side with some technically gifted players so it will be a massive test.”

The Shrimpers’ under-18 side have been in fine form this season but saw their seven match winning run ended by a 2-1 defeat at Peterborough United on Saturday.

But Huzzey is hoping the setback will actually work in his side’s favour.

“Our performance and result was out of character on Saturday after winning the last seven but maybe it was the kick they needed ahead of the game,” said Huzzey.

“Winning seven in a row was a great achievement and it was particularly pleasing that those victories came in a variety of competitions.

“But hopefully we can start another run now.”

And that could well lead to even more drama, something the Shrimpers’ matches have not been lacking this season.

“Our games are exciting, maybe even too exciting for the staff but it’s an exciting time for the club,” said Huzzey.

“Hopefully this can be a bit more simple than the first round but that was a great experience.”