SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is looking forward not back ahead of Saturday's game at Gateshead.

Blues beat table-topping Chesterfield 2-1 last time out, despite Maher only being able to select two substitutes.

But the Shrimpers chief has already turned his attentions towards picking up more points this weekend.

“We stay pretty level headed whether we win or lose because the next game is always around the corner and this is another tough one,” said Maher.

“Of course Saturday’s result was pleasing and fighting back to win against such a good side was a massive plus and a big confidence boost.

“The players should take heart from that too but it gets put to bed and you have to focus on the next one.”

Saturday’s clash will also be another stern test for the Shrimpers as Gateshead currently sit fifth in the National League standings.

Interim boss Rob Elliot has guided the team to three successive wins.

And Maher has been impressed by how the former Charlton Athletic goalkeeper has helped Gateshead maintain their fine form following the departure of previous boss Mike Williamson to MK Dons.

“It’s credit to him,” said Maher.

“They’ve made a couple of tweaks but they’ve kept on playing the same way and you can see they’ve got a way of playing they stick to.

“They score goals from it too and they’re a threat.

“They’ve had a couple of very good results this week so we know we’ve got to perform.

“It’s a tough place to go like we found last year and they’re very good at home.

“It’s a very tough game but we’ll be ready and we’ll go in with confidence as well.”