SOUTHEND United centre-back Ollie Kensdale has his sights set on ending the season with the best defensive record in the division.

Blues have conceded just 43 goals in 45 games this season.

And Kensdale is determined to ensure Kevin Maher's side do not ruin that record against Rochdale at Roots Hall this weekend.

"We want to keep as many clean sheets as possible and concede as few goals as possible," said Kensdale.

"We've got the best record with both of them at the moment and we want to make sure it's the same come the end of the season too."

Blues kept their 17th clean sheet of the campaign in Saturday's 2-0 win at AFC Fylde.

And Kensdale was delighted to bag another three points.

"It was a good result and it was obviously what we needed from the game," said the 23-year-old.

"We were definitely worthy of the three points.

"I know they played Thursday but you can only beat wants in front of you.

"It was a really good win and performance"

Kensdale also lined up without a protective mask for the first time since suffering nasty facial injuries against Aldershot Town back in February.

And the defender was pleased to be given the go ahead to play without the added safety measure.

"I went for another appointment with the specialist on Thursday and got the all clear," said Kensdale.

"It was nice to finally play without it and it was probably a good first one to have without it because they didn't really play with an actual number nine.

"I didn't have to much contact with it and it was good to play without it and feel a bit more normal."

But Kensdale insisted playing with the mask had not posed too many problems.

"It was different," said the centre-back.

"It wasn't too much of a problem but it was more the sweat from it that I found most difficult.

"I could feel it dripping but it was OK.

"If that's what was needed for me to play then I was always going to do it and I would've worn it for as long as needed."

Blues now have just one game left to play this season.

And, depending on results elsewhere this week, they could head into Saturday’s clash against Rochdale with an outside chance of making the play-offs.

But Kensdale is keeping him focus on the Shrimpers’ form.

“We have to look after ourselves first,” said the centre-back.

“We'll know come Saturday if we're in with a chance or not.

“Funny things can happen in football and hopefully the results do go our way.”