SOUTHEND United midfielder Mark Bentley has revealed the Shrimpers are ready to deal with Boston's route one style at York Street tonight.

The former Dagenham and Redbridge man has shaken off a knee knock to keep his place in the centre of the park and explained Blues had been practising how to cope with the expected aerial bombardment.

"Again it's not going to be a very pretty game," said Bentley.

"The weather forecast isn't the best - nor is the pitch - so I think it will be a real battle with a lot of route one stuff being played.

"We've all been lobbing balls up in the air in training though and hopefully that will put us in good stead for this evening."

And Bentley, who has scored three times this season, is also looking to net again after heading home his first Southend goal in the corresponding fixture last March.

"Obviously it's a game which holds good memories for me after getting my first professional goal there," said the 27-year-old.

"It would be nice if I could bag another there tonight and help us get the three points to close on the gap on Swansea in third."