SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher is expecting another tight contest when Blues head to Maidenhead United tonight.

The Shrimpers head into the game having not won or scored in their last four games.

But Maher is now looking to build on Saturday's 0-0 draw at Oxford City.

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“It was a clean sheet and a point so we build and look forward to a notoriously tough game,” said Maher.

“There’s never been much between the teams when we play Maidenhead but we’ll be ready and we know what to expect.

“They had a disappointing result on Saturday [losing 3-1 at home to Oldham Athletic] and will be looking to bounce back as well.”

The Shrimpers sit 20th in the table and are currently just above the relegation zone on goal difference.

But Maher is certain his side’s work-rate can get them back to winning ways.

“Human nature means that confidence is dented when you’re not winning matches,” said Maher.

“But you’ve got to put that to one side and work as hard and as smartly as you can every day.

“They were in good form in training yesterday, they’re ready and looking forward to it.”

And Maher also stressed all sides will experience a run of poor results during the course of a season.

“Barring Chesterfield, who have been incredible, everyone will have a period when they’re not winning football matches,” said Maher.

“It’s how you react to that and come out the other side that matters.

“That’s all we’re focused on.”

But the Shrimpers will be without skipper Nathan Ralph tonight.

The defender was sent off after being shown two yellow cards in Saturday’s stalemate at Oxford City.

And Maher felt the second yellow card, shown for dangerous play, was harsh.

“Ralphy has his suspension from Saturday which was a touch harsh,” confirmed Maher.

“He has been brilliant for us, but whoever comes in will be ready and we’ll be ready to go against a team who are always tough to play.

“They have some very good players in attacking areas who can cause you problems.

“We have to be ready to battle and work hard.”

Jason Demetriou could return to the starting line-up tonight while midfielder James Morton is also pushing for a recall with Cav Miley dropping to left sided centre-back.

However defender Louis Lomas (groin) and Harry Taylor (hamstring) both remain sidelined along with striker Callum Powell (hamstring) and midfielder Oli Coker (hamstring).

Blues could therefore struggle to select five substitutes against a Maidenhead side who are 14th in the table and have lost their last three games.