Saturday's late kick off in the National League has the potential to be the game of the weekend with two promotion chasers in Southend and Carlisle facing off. Matthew O'Regan has his betting tips and predictions.
Off-the-field issues have plagued Southend for years but The Shrimpers are well poised for another playoff finish after heartbreakingly missing out in the final last year to Oldham. Kevin Maher is now in his fourth year at Roots Hall and has his side in seventh place.
Southend come into this game unbeaten in five games, looking to extend the gap between them and eighth place Wealdstone to seven points. At home, they have taken 15 points from eight games, scoring 12 goals and conceding just four. Half of the goals they have conceded in front of their own fans came in a disappointing 0-2 loss to Scunthorpe.
Gus Scott-Morriss continues to show himself as the best right back in the league. The 28-year-old scored an incredible 17 goals last season and already has five goal contributions this campaign. The marauding wing back's energy and creativity is key to Southend's attacking prowess.
Carlisle suffered an unfortunate double relegation after reaching League One, finding themselves in non-league for the first time in 20 years. Mark Hughes joined in February and almost pulled off a great escape but the Cumbrians were ultimately relegated.
The hierarchy stuck by Sparky and their faith looks to have being repaid, with Hughes winning the October manager of the month. Since the end of September, Carlisle have taken 13 points from a possible 15, as well as shocking League One Reading in the FA Cup.
They sit top of the league, one point clear of second place Boreham Wood. However, Southend have a game in hand and can move within four points with a win on Saturday evening.
Regan Linney was signed in the summer from fellow National League side Altrincham after a 23-goal season. The 28-year-old has never played in the EFL but may realise these dreams this season, with his 11 goals putting his side top. He also scored a hat trick in the FA Cup so is a man in form.
Prediction: Regan Linney To Score - 2.10
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