SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is not surprised to see Woking doing so well this season.

The Cards head to Roots Hall tonight sitting seventh in the National League standings.

But Maher fully expected Darren Sarll’s side to impress this term and is predicting a stern test this evening.

“Woking will ask questions of us and they got a great win at Halifax at the weekend,” said Maher.

“They’ve started well and have recruited well too.

“Darren’s sides are always going to be competitive and he knows the level really well so I’m not surprised they’re up there.

“They’ve got some good players and a good manager.”

Blues go into tonight’s clash on the back of successive 1-0 wins.

And Maher is pleased to be moving up the table, with the Shrimpers now sitting in 11th.

“It’s pleasing to get more points on board and move slightly up the table which is the important thing because it’s a result based business,” said Maher.

“But that’s behind us now and we’re looking forward to another tough one. “ The Shrimpers head into the game with conflicting fortunes at either end of the pitch.

Blues have the joint best defensive record in the division but only three teams in the league have scored fewer goals.

And Maher is fully aware of the statistics.

“We haven’t scored loads of goals but it’s not for the want of trying or down to a lack of attempts,” said Maher.

“We’re creating the opportunities but we need to keep the back door shut too.

“The combination of the two is the ideal scenario but if we have to win by narrow margins then so be it.

“We’re pleased with how we’re defending but need to keep it going.”

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