MAHER'S HEROES DEFIED ALL LOGIC

Shrimpers almost enjoyed perfect play-offs

- Andy Mitchell

OLD friends provided Kevin Maher with some solace after Southend United’s Wembley heartbreak — but there won’t be much time for reflection.

The Shrimpers boss became well versed in working with the absolute minimum during the club’s darkest days and while his charges came up a little short in a 3-2 extra-time defeat to Oldham Athletic in the National League Promotion Final, the presence of those who might have still been around but for off-field troubles served as a timely reminder of the club’s progress.

“We had a lot of the ex-players come (to Wembley), we invited them,” revealed Maher.

“They have been through stuff and should possibly never have left the club but for circumstances.

“We are proud. It is tricky to feel that because as a professional you are here to win but we will reflect on the work that has been done at this football club.