SOUTHEND United centre back Spencer Prior has warned his Shrimpers team mates to expect a stern test from Shrewsbury Town at Roots Hall tonight.

Blues thrashed the Shrews 4-1 in the LDV Vans Trophy back in November, but the experienced defender is predicting a much closer battle this evening.

"They have been doing a lot better lately and I think it will be a completely different game to when we played them before," said the 33-year-old.

"I think they're virtually safe from relegation now so they can go out there with no fear and they are often the hardest teams to face.

"They are playing for their own personal pride and it's going to be a very tough game for us."

But the former Manchester City man is sure the Seasiders can continue their recent run of impressive results and maintain the club's push for promotion with another victory over Gary Peters' side.

"We've taken eight points from a period of very hard games, which we thought could be make or break our season," he added.

"That was a great return and we are in a very good position now.

"We haven't lost for a while and are hitting form at just the right time."

* Don't miss Wednesday's Echo for full match report and reaction.