NEXT week's League Cup quarter final may well provide Leicester's best route to Wembley, but last night they made progress on a second front as well. Goals either side of halftime did the job nicely against a Southend side whose challenge served only to emphasise the superior opposition Leicester have to face every week in the Premiership.

Steve Claridge and Ian Marshall provided the scoring to help take Martin O'Neill beyond the third round of this competition for the first time as a manager.

Ronnie Whelan ensured the Southend barricades were well manned, putting four in midfield to reinforce a five man defence and it was half an hour before Leicester got themselves together enough to take the lead.

Muzzy Izzet shot wide and after Campbell's instant pass Claridge was about to unleash a shot when McNally came across with an important block. Then, in the 39th minute, Kaamark sent over a cross from the left, Marshall nodded it down and Claridge needed only a simple prod to send the ball over the line.

There was little to suggest that Leicester would need another goal. But right at the start of the second half they got another one anyway.

Garry Parker made good use of the space in front of him as defenders backed off before seeking out the rampaging Marshall, now moved to a striking role alongside Claridge. Marshall eased his way past Dublin before firing home.