DAVE Penney felt Southend United’s hard fought 3-1 win in Saturday’s FA Cup second round clash at Chesterfield was further proof of the team’s fighting spirit.

Blues came back from conceding an early goal to come out on top at the Proact Stadium.

And that delighted assistant manager Penney.

“I think the team we have here at the moment is galvanised by adversity and we saw that again here so we’re delighted,” said Penney.

“Going behind early on at a place like Chesterfield could be tough for some teams to come back from but we carried on playing well and showed that there’s a real togetherness in this team.

“It was shown at Portsmouth when we came back with 10 men to win and we also scored a winning goal against York with 10 men so it’s certainly not a one off.

“I don’t think this team likes feeling hard done by and maybe going behind like we did was the best thing that could’ve happened.”

Goals from Marc Laird, Anthony Straker and Kevan Hurst saw the Shrimpers make it seven games without defeat.

And Penney was delighted by all three of Southend’s strikes.

“The first goal was from a set piece and it was great for Lairdy to get back among the goals,” said the former Doncaster Rovers boss.

“The second one was great for Strakes and his confidence and he also did superbly well for Hursty’s goal at the end.

“All goals are pleasing but the three we got here were particularly so.”

As a result, the only disappointment for Penney was seeing striker Barry Corr have a second half penalty saved by Chesterfield goalkeeper Tommy Lee.

“Barry scoring would’ve been the icing on the cake and we’re all willing him to score for all the good work he puts in for the team,” said Penney.

“We can’t afford to be too greedy though so we’re happy with where we’re at and I’m sure the goals will soon start to come for Barry again.”