SOUTHEND United legends Adam Barrett and Steve Tilson cannot wait to step back in time with the Shrimpers.

The duo will be reunited, along with the rest of Blues’ 2006 League One winning team, for Monday’s Sid Broomfield Trophy against the Colchester United side who finished just behind them in the standings 13 years ago.

And Tilson is excited to be taking charge of Blues for the contest which has been organised to raise funds for Havens Hospices.

“It’s a fantastic cause to raise money for and I’m just really looking forward to seeing everyone again,” said Tilson.

“I wouldn’t say we were the best team but we just had such a good spirit about us and everyone got on which is what made the differernce.

“We had a mixture of leaders and creativity with Mark Gower and Freddy Eastwood for his goals but everyone got on throughout the whole club and I think that’s what got us promotion, along with the team spirit.

“Some of the lads I haven’t seen for quite some time now and it will bring back a lot of good memories.”

Barrett, who has organised the game with Echosport’s Chris Phillips as part of their fundraising for the London Marathon, played a key part in an incredibly successful time for the Shrimpers.

And the former defender feels the game is a great way of raising money for a charity so close to his heart.

“It’s a great cause and one that I’ve seen first hand what they do so hopefully we can raise a good amount of money for them,” said Barrett.

“I really can’t speak highly enough of them.

“They looked after my mum before she passed away and my father in law too.

“Recently they looked after my sister in law’s mother too so they really do need all the help they can get.

“They’re a fantastic charity and I’d do anything I can to help them and raise money to help other families in a similar situation.

“The game will be really fun and hopefully we can get a good crowd in for it.”

Close to 900 tickets have now been sold for the game, which kicks off at 7.30pm.

Among those joining both Tilson and Barrett at Roots Hall will be Darryl Flahavan, Kevin Maher, Mark Gower and Freddy Eastwood.

And Barrett is is excited to be back alongside so many of his former team-mates.

“It was a real special time for the football club and there was a real feel good factor,” said Barrett.

“We had a special group and it’s only really when you look back now you really appreciate it so it will be great to see everyone again.”

Barrett was also keen to thank the Shrimpers Trust, Hollands Heating, MSPFX, Solopress, Essex Print & Publications, Jerman Samuels & Pearson Solicitors LLP, Safe Fire Protection Ltd and essexpropertycentre.co.uk for their sponsorship.

Tickets for the game, priced £5 adults and £1 concessions, will also be available on the night.

The match kicks off at 7.30pm.

Southend United: Flahavan, Jupp, Hunt, Edwards, Barrett, Wilson, Bentley, Guttridge, Maher, Gower, Bradbury, Gray, Eastwood, Eastwood junior & Ali (auction winner).

Management: Tilson & Brush.