SOUTHEND United goalkeeper David Martin was forced off with a rib injury during this afternoon’s 2-1 defeat to Bromley.

The Shrimpers shot-stopper collided with a Ravens striker before landing awkwardly after making a clearance just outside his penalty area.

And Blues boss Kevin Maher revealed Martin was still in considerable pain after the match.

“He got a whack on the ribs and he’s very, very sore in there,” said Maher.

“He was brave to put himself in that situation to stop a goal and there was no way he could carry on.”

Blues were without a substitute goalkeeper on the bench, meaning wing-back Gus Scott-Morriss went between the sticks.

But Maher was not surprised Scott-Morriss put himself forward.

“He’s that type of character and he’s bubbly,” said Maher.

“As a sportsman he’s talented away from football too so for him to do that and for Brook (Kabongolo) to go up front and get a goal was incredible.

“The ovation the fans gave the players was fully justified.”