Southend United skipper Kevin Maher is expecting another tough tussle at Roots Hall tomorrow afternoon as the Shrimpers host Scarborough in the third round of the FA Cup.

Head start - skipper Kevin Maher is hoping Southend see off the Seadogs Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

The Conference Club have already beaten Doncaster and Port Vale in this season's competition and Maher admitted the Blues will have to be at their best to stop the Seadogs securing a hat-trick of shocks.

"It will be a hard game for us," said Maher. "They beat a Second Division side away from home in the previous round and I'm sure they will be confident they can do the same against us."

"It's a tricky tie, but we've got enough quality in our side to get through and hopefully get another good result."

Blues welcome Mark Gower, Jay Smith and Tes Bramble back from suspension while Steven Clark also returns from a foot injury.

Mark Warren (buttock) and David McSweeney (banned) are both ruled out, while Michael Husbands (stomach) could also be unavailable.

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Published Friday January 2, 2004

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