SOUTHEND United will be aiming to avoid being rock bottom at Christmas when they head to Mansfield Town tomorrow.

The Shrimpers, who have sat at the foot of the standings since mid-October, will definitely climb above Stevenage with a win this weekend.

And Blues boss Mark Molesley feels his side will be fired up to triumph at Field Mill.

“The carrot is certainly there,” said Molesley.

“It should prove to be a great motivational factor for us but we’ve got to remember what got us this opportunity.

“It’s hard work, attention to detail, belief and confidence now can hopefully give us a much needed lift.

“It’s also put us in a good place going into the game.”

Blues have triumphed in their last two outings for the first time since October 2018.

And Molesley believes the Shrimpers are now far tougher to beat.

“Having more of a solid base and staying in games longer will always give us a better chance of winning games,” said the 39-year-old.

“That’s been a large part of our focus and making ourselves harder to beat.

“That’s where we are at the moment but it’s up to the players.

“They’re the ones who have to execute it and they’re really taking responsibility.”

The Shrimpers will now be hoping to keep the good run going against the Stags, who sit 19th in the standings.