Southend boss David Webb was more than happy with a home draw against Second Division Swindon Town in the semi-finals of the LDV Vans Trophy.

Southend United will meet the Robins at Roots Hall on Tuesday, February 13, for a place in the southern final, where Swansea City or Brentford will await the winners.

And Blues boss Webb, whose side have already dealt with Second Division outfits Cambridge United and Bristol Rovers in the competition's earlier rounds, was glad to seal home advantage yet again.

"It's a smashing draw," said Webb, whose side have been drawn at Roots Hall in all four rounds.

"It must be a long time since we've been in a semi-final other than the Essex Senior Cup. Let's hope we can make it through to the area final."

Webb led Blues to the same stage of this competition, their previous best, ten years ago, during his last spell at Roots Hall.

But then the Shrimpers were humbled 3-0 at home by Brentford, after beating Aldershot 10-1 and Torquay United 7-0 on their way to the last southern four.

By Bernie Friend

Reporter's e-mail: bernie.friend@notes.newsquest.co.uk

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.