SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher wants to get back to Roots Hall becoming a tough place for opposing teams to play.

The Shrimpers host York City this weekend sitting just two points above the drop zone.

And Maher - whose side have six home games in their next nine outings - is eager for Blues to get back on track in front of their own fans having lost four of their last five outings at Roots Hall.

“We've got a lot of home games coming up and we've got to get back to Roots Hall becoming a difficult place for teams to come and play,” said Maher.

"We know the position we're in and that the 10 points has hurt us hugely.

“But there's a lot of games left and a lot of points to play for.

Blues sit 17th in the table, level on points with York.

But Maher expects the Minstermen to improve with Neal Ardley in charge.

"Neal is a top manager,” said Maher.

“They're a good club and he's had a lot to change since he's gone in there in terms of personnel and the number of bodies.

“They will be a real force once he really gets his teeth into it and they will be one of the ones who get better the longer the manager is there.”

But Maher is still predicting a stern test on Saturday.

“It's a real tough one and we're level on points although I think we forget the 10 points we're down,” said Maher.

“It's important to remember where we should be as a team and not forget that.