FORMER Southend United skipper Kevin Maher thoroughly enjoyed stepping back in time at Roots Hall.

Maher skippered the Shrimpers to the League One title back in 2006.

And the ex-midfielder loved being reunited with the championship-winning squad for the Sid Broomfield Trophy against Colchester United.

“It was brilliant,” said Maher, who made more than 450 appearances for Blues.

“In truth it was like we had never been apart.

“It was brilliant to meet up with everyone and the fact that some of the lads travelled from quite far away showed just how much it meant to everyone.

“We had such great team spirit and being back in the dressing room with them all again was great, with all the same jokes still flying around.

“It brought back so many great memories and most importantly of all raised a good amount for a great cause in Havens Hospices.”

Maher started the game in the centre of the park against the U’s.

But he always knew Blues would find it tough going against their younger opponents.

“When we saw the squads we knew we would be in trouble really as they had a few who were still playing but it was a still a good laugh,” said Maher.

“It was really well supported and I’m sure everyone enjoyed it but I think a few of us might need to run a fat club and lose a bit of weight if we’re going to do it again.”

Maher was reunited with his former manager Steve Tilson for the clash and Tilson also thoroughly enjoyed the evening.

“It was great being back among a great group of lads who we achieved so much with,” said Tilson.

“It was great to make so much money for Havens too and to just be back in with all of the lads again.

“I really enjoyed it.”

Monday’s clash also took the combined fundraising of Blues legend Adam Barrett and the Echo’s Shrimpers reporter Chris Phillips to more than £20,000 from the London Marathon for Havens Hospices.