SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown felt his early substitution played a prominent part in Blues’ 2-1 win against Portsmouth yesterday.

Brown opted to bring Barry Corr on for Anthony Straker with just 39 minutes on the clock.

But Brown felt it was necessary for the Shrimpers, who were losing 1-0 at the time, to get back in to the game.

“I made the decision to sacrifice Anthony quite early on in the game but it certainly wasn’t a reflection on his performance it was just down to tactics,” said Brown.

“Portsmouth had four centre-backs out there along with Ryan Bird on the wing who is a big lad as well so I thought that we needed more height in our team, along with a change of formation and that’s why I brought Barry on.

“I could’ve taken any of the lads off to be honest but I went for Anthony in the end.

“He’s been outstanding for us this season though and I’m sure he will be again in the matches we have coming up.”

Corr played a part in both of Ryan Leonard’s goals after his introduction.

And Brown felt the Shrimpers fully deserved to claim all three points from the game.

“I thought we just about did enough to edge it in the end if I’m being honest,” said the Blues boss.

“We rode our luck at times and Daniel Bentley had to make some very good saves to keep us in it.

“But we were on top for most of the second half and got our reward with Lenny’s goal right at the end.

“The fact we kept on going again showed the togetherness and spirit we have in this squad and that’s vitally important if you are to achieve success.”