SOUTHEND United striker Harry Cardwell is hunting happier memories against York City this weekend.

Cardwell was part of the Shrimpers’ side which suffered a miserable 3-0 defeat against the Minstermen back in September in a game which saw Kevin Maher’s side receive two red cards.

But the fit-again forward insists he will never forget the support coming Blues’ way that afternoon.

“It was a surreal one,” said Cardwell.

“It seemed to capitulate that day and it was one thing after another going down to nine men.

“But to see the fans behind us like they were at the end of the game, still singing their songs, it will live long in the memory of the players.

“It showed us that no matter what the situation at the club that the fans were right behind us.

“I’ll always be thankful for that and I won’t forget it.”

The Shrimpers squad stayed out on the pitch to applaud their supporters after the final whistle.

But Cardwell finds it hard to describe the emotions it created.

“I honestly can’t explain the feeling,” said the striker.

“It was strange but players, fans, management and staff were all together for that moment.

“We went on to win some important games after that and hopefully we can use that energy again on Saturday.”

Blues take on York at Roots Hall this weekend looking to bounce back from two successive defeats.

And Cardwell remains frustrated by Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Gateshead.

“It was one of those days when it wasn’t going to go in the back of the net for us,” said Cardwell.

“It was very frustrating and we’ve looked at it in the last couple of days of training.

“We’ve picked out a few bits, gone through it and looked at where we went wrong.

“We know we can do better, especially in front of goal and put teams to bed so we’ll be looking to do that on Saturday.”

Blues now sit 17th in the standings, one place ahead of York on goal difference.

And Cardwell is expecting a tricky afternoon against Neal Ardley’s side.

“We know it’s a tough game,” said the 27-year-old.

“They’ve signed new players this season and a lot of them are very established at this level if not higher.

“They’re close to us in the table so it’s a tough one but the manager has done his research on them and we’ve implemented that in training.

“It will be the same on Thursday and Friday leading up to the game so we’ll be ready.”

And Cardwell is also feeling ready having now played twice since returning from a six week spell out of action with a knee injury.

“I’m feeling better,” said Cardwell.

“I’ve had two games back and got 90 minutes under my belt on Saturday.

“The injury seems behind me and fingers crossed I can stay fit and help move us up the table.”

But, to improve the chances of that happening, Cardwell knows he must build good partnerships with his fellow forwards.

“You’ve got to build relationships with anyone you’re up there with,” said Cardwell.

“I’ve played with a few players this season and it’s about learning each other’s game.

“The spell (Marcus) Dackers had here last season I didn’t get to play with him so the relationship will grow.

“It’s the same with Danny (Waldron) and Henry (Sandat) but it’s positive.

“There’s competition for places and it's good.”

But Cardwell remains eager to work his way back onto the score-sheet.

“It was close at the end on Saturday but it’s fine margins,” said Cardwell.

“Hopefully if we keep getting the balls in the box and I stay in between the posts I can stick one away.”