Tilly: 'They are always hectic and physical games'
In fact Blues boss Steve Tilson will have to put up with two such games with the Shrimpers making the short trip to Leyton Orient only 48 hours after the game with Colchester United at Roots Hall has finished.
Tilson spoke to www.southendunited.co.uk: "We have had some fantastic games with Colchester over the years. They are always hectic and physical games, but I'm sure it will also be entertaining. Colchester are a good side and they are going well."
He appreciates how important these games are to both teams and thier followers.
Tilly continued: "It will be a tough game for both sides and anything can happen in local derbies. It is also a massive game for the fans. Whatever the derby is, I'm sure that the supporters will want bragging rights. For us, it is important to take us into the away fixture at Leyton Orient two days later."
Boothroyd: 'We want to give our fans something to smile about'
U's boss Aidy Boothroyd has his own take on what is needed to get a result in these type of fixtures.
Boothroyd told www.gazette-news.co.uk: "Derbies are interesting occasions. The team that has the calmness and the emotional intelligence to deal with the situation and to continue to do their jobs will get a positive result out of the game."
Focusing on the Shrimpers he accepted it was difficult to know which team would turn up!
Boothroyd concluded: "I've watched Southend several times this year and despite all of their difficulties, I think they're a very unpredictable team. On their day, they can beat anybody. But the more hostile the atmosphere, the more I think it adds to the occasion. We want to make sure that we give our fans something to smile about, coming back up the road."