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However Maldon's League form suffered, possibly as a direct result of their cup run, and Colin Wallington's side only avoided relegation in the last few weeks of the campaign.
Despite losing key forward Robbie Reinault, famous for being the man who kept Brighton & Hove Albion in the Football league, Town will be seeking a better season this time around and will hope that Nicky Smith and Adrian Owers, both ex-Shrimpers will play a vital role in their revival.
Tommy Noble, who scored both the goal for Town when they lost 6-2 in an Essex Thameside Trophy encounter at Roots Hall in March 1999, is back at the Wallace Binder after a stint at Braintree Town in the Ryman Premier League, and he alongside fellow hitman Scott Witney will be looking to haunt Southend tonight. Incidentally, Neil Campbell scored a hat-trick for United in that 6-2 win.
Ryan Robinson will replace Carl Emberson in goal for United this evening as other players including Duncan Jupp, James Corbett and Drewe Broughton may also be rested whilst Mark Warren has a slight groin strain. Second year scholars Michael Kightly and Stuart Williams should both play a part in proceedings and Jamie Fullarton and Leke Odunsi should both see a full ninety minutes along with Steven Clark.
SOUTHEND (from):- Ryan Robinson, David McSweeney, Jamie Stuart, Leon Cort, Che Wilson, Jamie Fullarton, Kevin Maher, Mark Gower, Leke Odunsi, Stuart Williams, Steven Clark, Michael Kightly, Michael Husbands, Tes Bramble, Leon Constantine.