Delighted - Southend United boss Kevin Maher
(Image: NICKY HAYES)
By Chris Phillips. Chief sports reporter.
SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher was delighted with the response of his players in tonight’s 3-1 win against Halifax Town at Roots Hall.
The Shrimpers went into the game having suffered defeats to Sittingbourne and Maidenhead United in their last two matches.
And Maher felt it was vitally important to get back to winning ways against strong opposition.
"We had to respond and the lads did just that,” said Maher.
"I'm delighted with the win and the three points.
"You see their away form and how good they are away from home and that's a very good win, especially after Saturday when we were disappointed with the result.
"It was important to get the win tonight."
The Shrimpers were on top in the first half but had to wait until the second half to take the lead.
And Maher was pleased Blues kept pushing in the final third.
“We had chances in the first half,” said the Shrimpers boss.
“Walks (Josh Walker) has hit one that's gone straight at the keeper and anything to the side might go in.
"Gussy (Scott-Morriss) has had one from the second phase of a set piece and we've had loads of bits and pieces in around their box.
"But it was important to keep doing the right things.”
The Shrimpers made their pressure count in the second half with Scott-Morriss, Tom Hopper and Charley Kendall all hitting the back of the net.
And Maher was pleased with the manner of the goals as well as those scoring.
"We got the first two from set pieces which were nice to score from,” said Maher.
“It was nice for Hops and Charley to score their first goals since coming in too.
“The time Halifax scored it could have been a nervous end to the game so it was nice to get that third one quickly after.
"It gave us that cushion again and I'm really pleased for Charley because he works his socks off.”
Kendall’s goal rounded off a pleasing night for the Shrimpers.
And Maher was quick to praise the striker’s display.
"There are times we get frustrated because we want him to look after the ball but his energy and his ability to get in behind got him that goal,” said Maher.
"He can finish and it was good for him to get off the mark."
Kendall’s goal sealed the win for the Shrimpers and continued their 100 per cent record on Tuesday nights at Roots Hall this season.
"Roots Hall under the lights is brilliant and you get a slick pitch too,” said Maher.
"It always seems to bring out the best in everyone."
"We got the three points but now we'll rest and recover and be ready for Saturday."
