KEV'S RACE AGAINST TIME!

Shrimpers return to action

- Jason Creasey

SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher hailed his committed players as they finally got back to action – but the beleaguered National League club still face a race against time to be ready to start the season on and off the pitch.

Maher was pleased to be focusing on football again after seeing his side win 4-1 at National League North outfit Bishop’s Stortford, with Jack Wood netting a hattrick.

The Shrimpers are fighting for their existence with a looming court date over an unpaid tax bill while supporters’ hopes for owner Ron Martin to sell up continue.

The disruption saw the club cancel pre-season friendlies with Canvey Island and Billericay Town due to a lack of players, meaning Maher’s preparation for the August 5 kick off has been impacted.

But yesterday’s clash against Stortford got the go-ahead and Maher was delighted to see Blues back in action on the pitch.

“It’s been incredibly difficult and all we want to do is focus on the football,” said Maher.

“The players want to play football, I’m sure the fans want to watch it and that’s what a football club is.