SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is expecting a stern test against in-form Halifax Town on Saturday.

The Shaymen sit seventh in the National League standings having been beaten just once in their last six games.

And Maher knows Town will be tricky to beat at Roots Hall.

“It’s another tough game,” said the Blues boss.

“Everyone there has done ever so well and the game at their place earlier on in the season was a tight one too.

“We know how organised they are and we watched their game away at Altrincham.

“They were much the better side throughout the game and were comfortable aside from a last minute goal.

“They’re really well coached and defensively very solid."

Halifax have the best defensive record in the division having conceded just 24 goals in 26 games this term.

And Maher - whose side have the second best defensive record - has been impressed by Town's organisation.

“They all know what they’re doing right through the team," said Maher.

"They’re in decent form and are a tough nut to crack but we’ll present our own problems going the other way as well.”