After a weekend with no game for both sides, the league’s two most in-form teams go head-to-head in a game that’s live on BT Sport.

Maher and his staff utilised the free weekend in the most efficient way possible and he believes it will give Blues the best chance of three points.

“It was a good chance to reset. We still trained and prepared as we would do for any Tuesday game. Off the back of three away games with some travelling as well, it gave us a bit of breathing space.

“Since last Tuesday we’ve got a bit of rest and recovery into the players, but they’ve trained well and we’ve got a lot of detail into them.”

The Magpies have reached the 40-point mark already and have the second-highest goalscorer in English football, Macaulay Langstaff, in their ranks.

However, a seven-game winning run in the league came to an end against Bromley last time out. On Luke Williams’ team, Maher said: “They’re doing ever so well and they’re top of the league for a reason.

“It’s a massive test for us, but I’m sure they’ll feel the same. They’re a very good side and one that score a lot of goals. We’re in good form, their form has been first class and we’re looking forward to it.

“It’s one that you want to impose your game on, but whatever happens tactically, once you cross the white line it’s down to the players to perform. Hopefully the players are in a good enough place to do that and we’ll see what happens.”

The Head Coach also reflected on the recent run that has seen the Shrimpers go nine league games unbeaten, winning the last four. “We haven’t changed how we approach games and how we go about our work.

“Even when results weren’t exactly what we wanted, we’ve stayed true to what we believe in and how we see the game. It’s just the belief in the players that’s kept going along with their determination to win football matches.

“To come away with the points we have done is testament to the players, but it’ll be nice to be back in front of our fans and we want to keep going and keep performances at a high level. Whatever will come of that will come of that.”

The game is the first of two in five days at Roots Hall as Blues return to Essex after three away games in a row, and playing away in five of the last six.

On the fans’ superb support, Maher added: “The numbers we took to Maidstone, York and Barnet were incredible and we want to give our home fans something to shout about as well. It’ll be a great atmosphere tomorrow night and one that the players will respond to as well.”

Jake Hyde and Rhys Murphy’s recent injuries mean that there’s a slight lack of options up front, with the pair both having had scans in the last week or so.

Maher explained the situation in attacking areas. “The lads performed ever so well on Tuesday night, and we want to make sure that when someone comes in, they’re ready to go.

“Harry Cardwell’s got a bit of training in him recently but without any real minutes, so it’s something we’ll monitor.”

MAHER: "IT'S A MASSIVE TEST FOR US, BUT THEY'LL FEEL THE SAME"