SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is desperate to end the season on a high.

The Shrimpers host Torquay United in their final outing of the National League campaign at Roots Hall on Sunday.

And, despite there not being much at stake, Maher remains determined to pick up three points.

“We’re at home and we want to finish the season on a high,” said Maher.

“The last few performances at home – Halifax, Boreham Wood and Weymouth even though we drew – have been good and it’s important we carry that on against Torquay now.”

With that in mind, Maher has prepared the players properly for the game that comes 13 days after their previous outing, a 1-1 draw with Weymouth.

“We gave them a few days off after the last game but they’ve come back in and trained ever so well after that,” said Maher.

“We will have had a full week going into the game and we’ll be ready for it.”

Blues go into the game sitting 12th in the National League standings, two places lower than Torquay.

But Maher is expecting another stern test.

“Torquay are a good team with some good players,” said the Shrimpers boss.

“They’ve been in and around the play-offs this season but haven’t quite made it.

“They’re a good footballing team though and it will make for a good game.”

Maher confirmed he would not be experimenting within his starting line-up.

And he will be making late checks on Nathan Ralph, Sam Dalby, Kenny Clark, Noor Husin and Tom Clifford who all missed the 1-1 draw with Weymouth.

“There are a few we will be looking at and, without giving much away, hopefully one or two will be back in contention for the game,” said Maher.

“We will see how they train this week and it will be pleasing if they’re available.

“It gives us more to choose from if they are and also makes us stronger.”

But Maher has yet to decide whether or not John White will be given a run out.

“We’ll assess that as we go,” said Maher.

“We want to think about the game first and foremost and we’ll decide that nearer the time.”

White has been with Blues since 2013 but seems likely to leave the club the summer having not made a first team appearance since Boxing Day.

The match against Torquay could therefore be White’s last competitive fixture while with the Shrimpers although he does still have his testimonial match which will be played at Roots Hall on Sunday May 22.

The match has been combined with the Essex Charity Cup which will take place before White’s game.