SOUTHEND United legend Steve Tilson feels the Shrimpers now have a ‘great chance’ of staying up this season.

Second from bottom Blues are three points behind 22nd placed Barrow following Saturday’s 1-0 win at Harrogate Town.

And Tilson is confident Mark Molesley’s side can build on the victory, especially if they continue to play with two strikers in attack.

“I really do think they’ve got a great chance of getting out of it,” said Tilson who spent seven years managing the Shrimpers.

“I have to say it was nice to see them go 4-4-2 on Saturday and play with two up top.

“They’ve got to win games so they’ve got to score goals.

“Yes it’s great to keep clean sheets but you’re not going to win if you’re not scoring at the other end.

“It was nice to see two up at Harrogate but it was a long time coming in my opinion and I know a lot of other people’s opinions too so hopefully he will stay with that now.”

Blues are back in action against Carlisle United at Roots Hall this weekend.

But Tilson, who made 275 appearances as a player for the Shrimpers, feels the current squad should be higher up the League Two standings.

“It’s a big squad and it’s one that’s certainly capable of staying up but I don’t think they should be in that position in the first place if I’m honest,” said Tilson.

“They’ve got the squad and some good experienced players, including Macca (Alan McCormack) whose voice and experience is certainly going to help the rest of the squad.”

And Tilson feels that could be bad news for another of the county’s teams.

“The momentum really isn’t with Colchester at the moment,” said the 54-year-old.

“I think they’ve only won one of their last 18 or 19 games so they could certainly be dragged in, especially as Blues still have to play them.

“That’s going to be a huge game and Barrow will be too.

“I know everyone keeps on looking at everyone else’s results but all you have to do is concentrate on your own results.

“They won Saturday and look at the difference.

“If you get your own camp in order and get those three points then it really does make a huge difference.”

But, while Blues continue their battle to beat the drop, Tilson will also be getting back onto the training pitch.

And he is looking forward to holding a holiday camp in association with the PL1 GK Academy at the Len Forge Centre next Wednesday.

“With the kids being off school and being able to get back playing football again it’s going to fantastic,” said Tilson.

“At their age I was playing football all day and I’m sure they will be desperate to get back playing.

“I’m really looking forward to it.”

The camp will be held between 10am and 3pm and is for outfield players aged between six and 14.

Prices have been set at £25.

For more details email paul@pl1goalkeeping.co.uk