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Southend United’s story this season has been nothing short of extraordinary. Kevin Maher, who has been with the club both as a player and now as a manager, has witnessed the ups and downs that have characterized the Shrimpers’ journey. As they gear up for the National League play-off final against Oldham Athletic, Maher emphasizes that the team is not ready to conclude their season just yet. The stakes are high, and victory in this match would mark their return to the English Football League for the first time since 2021, a feat that seemed improbable just a year ago due to severe financial woes.
A tumultuous road to Wembley
Over the past few years, Southend United has faced numerous challenges, including a near-extinction moment. With the club’s financial struggles threatening its existence, the eventual takeover last July brought a glimmer of hope. However, the path to the play-offs was anything but smooth. The team clinched their play-off spot on the very last day of the regular season after a tense goalless draw against Gateshead. From there, they navigated through a series of nail-biting matches, needing extra time to defeat Rochdale and subsequently advancing by winning on penalties against Forest Green Rovers. These intense moments have only heightened the anticipation for the upcoming final.
Reflecting on the journey
Maher expressed the significance of this match, recognizing how far the team has come. “It’s huge – what’s gone on here the last few years means that this seemed a long way off not so long ago,” he remarked. The team has endured a rocky start, winning only three out of their first thirteen games, which cast doubts on their chances for promotion. Yet, a pivotal turning point came when they secured seven wins in their next fifteen games, pushing them back into contention for the play-offs.
The resilience of the players
Throughout this tumultuous journey, Maher has been vocal about the remarkable resilience displayed by his players. Despite the pressures and setbacks, they have given their all for the club, creating an opportunity to achieve their ultimate goal. The challenges of the past, including winding-up petitions, a significant points deduction, and the looming threat of closure, have only added to the drama. Yet, now standing on the brink of regaining their EFL status, the triumph feels palpable.
Facing Oldham Athletic
As Southend prepares to face Oldham, both clubs share a common struggle with financial difficulties and the desire to reclaim their place in the higher tiers of English football. Maher acknowledges that both teams deserve to be back in League Two, given the hardships they’ve endured. “When you look at Southend and what we’ve had to do, what the club’s been through and the fans stood by the team, I think they deserve this,” he stated, highlighting the unwavering support from the fanbase.
The ticketing turmoil and fan frustrations
The lead-up to the match has been marred by a ticketing controversy due to engineering works on the London Underground, limiting the number of fans allowed into Wembley. Initially capped at 17,500 for safety reasons, the overall capacity has since increased to 50,000, but Maher has echoed the frustrations of supporters who feel they deserve better access. “You’ve got the fifth tier of English football in the national stadium and they can’t get enough people in, which is madness,” he lamented. Both clubs could have potentially filled the stadium with thousands of fans eager to support their teams.
Players ready for the challenge
Among the players, Gus Scott-Morriss stands out as a figure to watch. Having scored 17 times this season, he played a crucial role in securing Southend’s place at Wembley with a decisive penalty against Forest Green. Reflecting on the experience, Scott-Morriss expressed excitement about playing at such an iconic venue, stating, “I couldn’t have dreamed of playing at Wembley three or four years ago.” His journey, like many others, has been filled with ups and downs, forging a deep connection with the fans who have endured this rollercoaster ride alongside the team.
Looking ahead
As the final approaches, the anticipation is electric. The players and fans alike are ready to make history, with the hopes of an entire community resting on their shoulders. This match is not just about football; it is a testament to resilience, determination, and the unwavering spirit of Southend United. The road to Wembley has been paved with challenges, but it has also been a journey of hope, passion, and the relentless pursuit of glory.