JOE Gubbins is determined to make sure
Southend United’s FA Cup win at Eastleigh can be a turning point in their season.
Bim Pepple’s last gasp strike secured the Shrimpers a 1-0 victory against the Spitfires last time out.
And Gubbins - who was recalled to the starting line-up for the fourth round qualifying clash - wants the triumph to be the sign of things to come, starting with this weekend’s trip to Rochdale.
“The win on Saturday can be a turning point for us,” said the defender.
“The confidence is massive that we can take from that win going into the Rochdale game now.
“Obviously it’s a tough game there but you can see around the place what difference a win makes and everyone is buzzing.
“We want to take that into Saturday now and get the three points.”
The Shrimpers had triumphed just once in six games prior to their success at Eastleigh.
And Gubbins was delighted to help Blues pick up their first clean sheet since also beating the Spitfires in the National League back in early September.
“We were very happy with the win and first and foremost we were delighted to keep a clean sheet too,” said Gubbins.
“As defenders that’s what we love to do and it’s what we take pride from.
“ It was a really good away performance to get into the first round and we’ll kick on from there.”
The Shrimpers will now host League One side Charlton Athletic in early November.
And Gubbins cannot wait for the first round clash.
“When I was watching the draw I said I wanted Birmingham, Charlton or Stockport,” said Gubbins.
“I don’t know why but they were the teams I looked out for.
“To get Charlton at home is a great draw and I rang my parents and girlfriend because I was buzzing.
“I can’t wait for it and hopefully we get a good crowd.
“It will be a really good day for us but we can’t think about it just yet because we have some important games in the league before then.”
The first of those takes place at Rochdale this weekend.
And Gubbins will again be looking to impress on the ball.
“I think that comes from just going over the park every day as a kid with my dad,” said Gubbins when asked about his passing ability.
“We used to go over there every day without fail after school just kicking the ball down the line to each other.
“It was constant and I never said no to doing it.
“I started off when I was very, very young up front and then worked my way back as my pace deteriorated!
“But that’s my game and it’s what I love to do so hopefully I can keep bringing that to the team too.”
