SAM Hart insists Saturday’s clash with Portsmouth is massive for Southend United.

The Shrimpers, who sit 14th in the League One standings, have triumphed just once in their last seven games.

And Hart is desperate for Blues to get back to winning ways this weekend.

“Saturday is a massive game now,” said Hart, who is on loan at Southend from Blackburn Rovers.

“The pressure is on Portsmouth because they’re looking for promotion.

“But we want the three points too because we want to move up the table and be higher in the league than we are the moment.”

Right now, the Shrimpers sit just six points clear of the relegation zone.

And Hart was frustrated not to have moved further clear of the drop zone at Doncaster Rovers on Tuesday night.

The left-back recovered from a knee problem to make his fifth successive start since signing in mid-January.

But the 22-year-old was disappointed to suffer a 3-0 defeat at the Keepmoat Stadium.

“It was tough and frustrating,” said Hart.

“Early on I thought we created some good chances but unfortunately it wasn’t to be.

“Doncaster are a good side and they played well. There were a few positives and we have to take them into Saturday now.”

And Hart also felt John Marquis opening goal was key in Rovers claiming another three points in their push for promotion.

“The goal came against the run of play and it was tough going after that,” said Hart.

“It was frustrating and I wish I knew the answer to why the form is inconsistent

“But everyone is working really hard to try and get the run of results we want.

“We know what we need to do but we have to knuckle down now and focus on Saturday.

“Portsmouth are another good side but we’ll prepare well and we’re all staying positive too.”

And, despite the up and down form, Hart is still enjoying his spell with the Shrimpers.

“It’s more about the team than me but I’m liking it here,” said Hart.

“Im living away from home and it’s something different but it’s been good.

“We’ve had some good results against Bradford and Charlton but now we need another one against Portsmouth.”