DEON Woodman is keen to make a big impression with Southend United.

The on-loan Queens Park Rangers defender - who is six foot five inches tall - made an impressive full debut for the Shrimpers in Tuesday night's 2-0 win against Dorking Wanderers.

And the 21-year-old is now seeking more of the same at Hartlepool United tomorrow.

"It was a really good feeling on Tuesday night," said Woodman.

"For me I just wanted to prove what I can do and I'd like to think I did that.

"Hopefully I can push on from there and keep performing now.

"Saturday will be good.

"I know it's a long journey but I'm excited to go there trying to get three points."

Woodman's display helped Blues end a run of six matches without a clean sheet.

And he already feels settled with the Shrimpers.

"I've really enjoyed it and it's been good," said Woodman.

"The lads are sound, the area is good and everything about it is just so chilled out so I really like it.

"I've been out on loan before and that's helped because I know what to expect from men's football now.

"It's good to get a taste for real football and I want to try and get more now."

Woodman spent time with Dulwich Hamlet last season before also having a short spell with Wealdstone last month.

And Woodman cannot believe the level of support coming the way of the Shrimpers.

"It's mad," said Woodman.

"I haven't experienced this level of support in the National League before.

"It's absolutely bonkers but I like playing my football in front of fans who are dedicated to the club and that's definitely the case here.

"I want to go out and perform for them."

Woodman has joined Blues for an initial month long loan following injuries to Ollie Kensdale and Harry Taylor.

And he is finally starting to achieve the ambitions he set himself this season.

"I had a good pre-season with QPR and played two games with the first team," said Woodman.

"I got injured in August and wasn't back until November time.

"Coming back for me I wanted to get a loan sorted to play so it's better late than never."

But it is not just defensively where Woodman looked assured for the Shrimpers as he was also comfortable bringing the ball forward.

And that stems from him playing further forward in his youth.

"When I was younger I was a striker but as I slowly grew it was best I went centre-back," said Woodman.

"I've kept the sharpness and I feel like I'm quite quick for my height too.

"I changed to centre-back and it just clicked.

"But I definitely prefer keeping the ball and staying calm because otherwise you're defending more and that can get tiring."