SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher says the Shrimpers will be ready for another tricky test at Halifax Town on Tuesday night.

Blues drew 1-1 at Solihull Moors on Saturday to pick up their first point of the season.

But Maher is now expecting a difficult evening against Halifax despite them having lost their opening two games of the season.

“We were delighted with how the players applied themselves at Solihull Moors on Saturday but it’s another tough one tomorrow now,” said Maher.

“Halifax were unlucky at the weekend with the chances they had and should have taken something from the game having watched it.

“We will try to impose our game on them and I’m sure they will be looking to do the same.

“But it’s a tough one and it’s another journey for us too.

“I believe in all the players at the club though and whoever pulls on the shirt will be ready.”

Halifax - who finished fourth last season - have yet to pick up a point this season and, like Blues, will be aiming for their first win of the campaign on Tuesday.

The Shrimpers will again be without the suspended Jason Demetriou who completes his three match ban tomorrow while Rhys Murphy (knee), Harry Taylor (knee), Harry Cardwell (ankle) and Jake Hyde (hamstring) are also out along with Gus Scott-Morriss.

The summer signing suffered a hamstring injury towards the start of pre-season and is not ready to be involved.

“Gus has been out running on the grass and hopefully he will be back in training by the end of the week,” said Maher.

“We’ve got a few other bumps and bruises from the game on Saturday.

“But there won’t be anyone coming back into the squad for the game.”