SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown felt his side were nowhere near their best in Saturday’s 1-0 win against Shrewsbury Town at Roots Hall.

Shaq Coulthirst bagged the only goal of the game for the Shrimpers after only two minutes.

But it was the result and not the performance which pleased Brown.

“We didn’t play well but we won the game and that’s a great sign,” said the Blues boss.

“The clean sheet mentality was there and helped us come out on top. It’s a good win too because Shrewsbury are a strong side. They came here after beating Norwich in the cup and they ended up using the same system here that they did against them.

“However, we had more joy than Norwich did and I’m delighted to have made it four wins in a row.”

Brown chose to tinker with his formation during the game in order for the Shrimpers to come out on top.

And the Blues chief was thrilled how his players responded to having to change systems in quick succession.

“The players grabbed hold of two or three different systems in the space of 10 minutes and that pleased me, “ said Brown.

“Shrewsbury changed their system after we scored early on and that spun me in to a downward spiral.

We weren’t getting enough second balls and we weren’t retaining possession so I changed our system and then changed it again.

“I think I just need to calm myself down but it’s the players who deserve the credit for the win.”

Coulthirst’s goal came with just 90 seconds on the clock.

The striker headed home a right wing cross from John White and Brown is certain the effort will do wonders for the youngster’s confidence.

“Strikers are all about confidence and Shaq will get a lot from that goal,” said Brown.

“It was a fabulous ball in from John and it was a great header too.

“Shaqwas being watched by his parent club and he gave a good account of himself so I’m sure he will be pleased.

“Sometimes he’s playing out of position but he’s definitely enjoying it here and will be hoping for more goals now.”