SOUTHEND & EMT will be looking to make it two wins in a row when they head to Harold Wood tomorrow.

Southend saw off Gidea Park & Romford in what skipper Scott Simmons thought was a must-win match last weekend.

And Simmons - whose side sit second from bottom in the Division One standings - is keen to build on that victory.

“Harold Wood this weekend is going to be a tough contest as they are right up there in the mix,” said Simmons.

“It will be a big ask to go and get a result but we have the players who can do just that.

“If we can bring our form from the last two performances into the game then I know we have a good chance but no game is easy in this league and you have to be at it at all times. We can’t wait.”

Southend boosted their survival hopes with an impressive 85-run victory against Gidea Park and they now sit just five points behind Upminster, who are immediately above the drop zone.

And Simmons remains delighted with the win.

“The game against Gidea Park was must-win and the lads stepped up and executed the plans perfectly,” said Simmons.

“We were put under pressure early with two quick wickets but Phil Gray and Joe Robbins dug in superbly and played two fantastic innings.

“I’m really pleased to see them both score big runs, with Joe going on to make his hundred.”

Robbins scored a fine 103 and Simmons was quick to praise his innings.

“Joe hasn’t had the best of starts with the bat but his innings on Saturday was great to watch,” said Simmons.

“He looked like his old self dominating the bowling and never looking in trouble.

“He’s a big player for us with bat and ball and really helps the team with his attitude and love for the game.

“What we can’t do is rely on him as we all need to step up and put in performances when it matters.

“The team are working hard for each other and the morale is high.”

Gray scored a fine 70 as Southend finished their innings on 272/6.

In reply, Gidea Park were bowled out for just 187 with Robbins taking 3-26 and Simmons 3-30.

However, Southend picked up just 15 points for the win after being deducted five points by the league, who adjudged them to have not been able to supply an identical ball.

Southend will now look to put that behind them at third-placed Harold Wood this weekend.