SOUTHEND United manager Kevin Bond feels the Shrimpers ‘must win’ at Walsall on Friday to keep their survival hopes alive.

Blues face their fellow strugglers sitting 22nd in the League One standings, two points from safety.

And Bond is certain the Shrimpers must end their 14 match winless streak if they are to stay up this season.

“How significant this game might end up being I don’t know but if you look at where we are right now it’s like a must win game for us,” said Bond.

“I don’t know if it’s do or die but this game couldn’t be any more important that’s for sure.

“It’s hugely important for us and we have to show more spirit.”

Walsall are also fighting to stay up and go into Friday's game sitting 23rd in the table having suffered six successive defeats.