SOUTHEND United host Kettering Town in the first round of the FA Youth Cup at Roots Hall tonight.

Blues have already beaten Billericay Town and Bowers & Pitsea in this season’s competition.

And Shrimpers coach Danny Heath is switching his focus onto this evening’s tie as his side bid to get closer towards their pre-season target.

“The challenge the boys sent themselves was to reach the third round proper,” said Heath.

“They’ve won two games already and we’re looking forward to the third.”

And playing at Roots Hall for the first time this season will make it extra special for the Shrimpers’ youngsters.

“You will hear people say play the game not the occasion but for me it’s a bit of both,” said Heath.

“It’s another opportunity for them to play a game of football and hopefully show how good they are.

“Any occasion to play at Roots Hall is special and it gives them a taste of what they could have long term in the game.”

But Kettering are likely to give Blues a good test.

“We’ve seen them play twice and they look a good side,” said Heath.

"Michael March and myself went to watch them play against Rushden & Diamonds last Monday night and we've had footage from their game they played against Peterborough a few weeks back.

"They're a side that look to play football and they're a good side technically too.

"But we will be approaching the game focusing on ourselves and hopefully we can get into the next round."

Blues will have midfielder Mo Amir available again after he missed the win at Bowers & Pitsea through suspension.

And Amir is looking to take the contest in his stride.

"It's the second time for me playing in the FA Cup and I'm feeling quite confident," said Amir.

"It's nothing unusual and the boys are prepared so we're looking forward to it.

"There's an extra buzz because there will be more fans there watching and playing under lights in the stadium so it's a big game but we're looking forward to it."

And skipper Patrick Droney echoed those sentiments.

"We're looking forward to it a lot," said Droney.

"I'm really excited to play at Roots Hall and it will be a good atmosphere with the fans there

"It's always a big occasion under the lights in the FA Youth Cup.

"We've watched the footage on Kettering and we're expecting a low block defence from them.

"I'm sure we will have more possession and we'll do what we can to get through."

Tonight’s match kicks off at 7.30pm.

Tickets prices have been set at £5 adults and £1 concessions.

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