Southend skipper Gus Scott-Morriss demonstrated remarkable determination by hitching a ride on Bedford Town's bus to reach his team's match against Halifax Town. The full-back's car broke down on Friday, preventing him from joining the team's scheduled transport. Despite the unconventional journey, Scott-Morriss not only made it to the game but also delivered a performance that impressed manager Kevin Maher.

Maher admitted he considered resting the player due to a sore hip and the "planes, trains and automobiles" journey, but Scott-Morriss arrived just after dinner on Friday and was "desperate to play." His professionalism paid off as he scored his 17th goal of the season, equalling his tally from last campaign. Southend secured their sixth-place position with a commanding 6-2 victory.

The result extends Southend's impressive unbeaten run to eight games and cements their play-off position. Meanwhile, Bedford Town received positive news from their own northern trip, where they drew 1-1 to strengthen their battle against relegation. The three-point advantage with one game remaining gives them a crucial buffer in the National League North table.