Southend United defender Mark Warren is hoping the struggling Shrimpers can kick-start their season with an unexpected victory over Second Division QPR at Roots Hall this evening.

Mark Warren - hoping a win over QPR tonight might kick-start the Shrimpers Picture: LUAN MARSHALL

The 29-year-old centre back returned to the starting line up against Doncaster on Saturday and is looking forward to facing the Loftus Road side in tonight's southern semi final of the LDV Vans Trophy.

"It's a hard game and QPR will be full of confidence," said Warren.

"They're flying high in their league at the moment, but we've got nothing to lose and hopefully we can get the result which can kick-start our season.

"It was a disappointing result against Doncaster at the weekend. We gave away two early goals and didn't take our chances, but hopefully we can bounce back against QPR."

And Warren, who ended a spell of 11 games on the sidelines on Saturday, also admitted he was relishing playing first team football once again.

"It's good to be back in the side after being out for so long," said the former Leyton Orient defender.

"To be honest, it's been a nightmare season for me so far, but hopefully things can start getting better and I can get a run of games in the team."

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Published Tuesday January 20, 2004

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