Competition: National League

Market: Both teams to score

Odds: 4/7 @ BetUS

Hoping to extend their buffer at the top of the National League table on Saturday afternoon, Chesterfield will travel to Roots Hall when they meet Southend.

Starting with the hosts, last seen putting in a toothless performance as they suffered a 2-0 loss away at Altrincham, Southend will certainly be seeking an immediate response here. Nevertheless, while the Blues might be dealing with a string of financial issues behind the scenes at Roots Hall this season, the Blues have dragged themselves away from a looming relegation scrap. Losing just a pair of their previous nine appearances across all competitions – a run that stems back to a 2-1 loss against AFC Fylde on September 23rd – Kevin Maher’s side will be excited to make a return to home soil this weekend. Including a thumping 5-0 romp against Solihull Moors last month, Southend have won each of their previous three showdowns in Essex by an aggregate score of 10-0. It should also be highlighted, the Shrimpers have also won six of their last seven contests in front of their own supporters. Although Maher’s men might face a stern examination here, they do have their sights set on breaking into the top-half.

As for the visitors, while Chesterfield might have suffered play-off heartbreak last season, Paul Cook’s side have come roaring back this time around. Opening this weekend’s fixtures holding a five-point buffer at the top of the National League table, the former Wigan boss has seen his high-flying squad gain a string of plaudits. Rightfully tipped as a leading promotion contender in 2024, the Derbyshire-based outfit have won each of their previous seven appearances across all competitions – a run that stems back to a 1-1 draw against Maidenhead on September 30th. Really impressing with their free-scoring performances in the final third, Chesterfield have bagged a stunning 21 strikes on their seven-match winning romp. With that purple patch underlined by a 5-0 victory against Kettering last month, Cook’s side will be desperate to lay down another National League marker in Essex. However, it should be noted, with each of the last four meetings between Saturday’s hosts finishing with both teams finding the net, we are expecting a similar outcome here.

Bet: Both teams to score at Southend vs Chesterfield 4/7 for Saturday’s National League matchup @ BetUS