SOUTHEND United’s Michael Timlin has spoken of his relief after finally ending a 23 month long goal drought.

The 28-year-old midfielder worked his way back on to the score-sheet during last Saturday’s shock 4-1 win against Millwall in the third round of the FA Cup at Roots Hall.

And he was thrilled to see the ball hit the back of the net, especially as he grew up supporting the Lions.

“It’s been a long wait to score a goal but it was a dream come true to finally hit the back of the net and help the team to a big win,” said Timlin, who went 73 games without scoring.

“I’ve been getting in the positions and had a few chances of late but I’ve just not been getting that little bit of luck.

“I put in a lot of leg work which means sometimes I’m not in the places I should be to score, but I’ve spoken with the manager about the more advanced role I’ve been playing.”

But it was not just the goal that delighted Timlin as he was also thrilled to see the Shrimpers run riot against their Championship visitors.

The former Fulham trainee bagged Blues’ third goal in a memorable win.

And he was full of praise for the team’s pleasing performance.

“The main thing was that we wanted to put in a good display, just as we had done against Yeovil Town earlier in the season in the League Cup,” said Timlin.

“We did that and on this occasion we got the win which was even better.

“It was a brilliant performance from everyone.

“Obviously for me personally it was a game I was massively looking forward to as I’m from the area and had lots of family come to the game so it was great it went so well.”

Timlin’s contract was extended until the end of the 2014/15 season in November after a clause in his deal – due to a number of games - activated an automatic extension.

And he is now desperate to help Blues clinch promotion this season.

“I’m one of the more experienced heads in the group and I truly believe we have a fantastic chance of going up,” said Timlin.

“We’ve gone close in the last two seasons and a cup run has hampered us, so we’re all determined to not let that be the case this time around.”