ELLIOT Benyon celebrated becoming a father for the first time by firing Southend United to a vital 3-2 victory at Hereford on Saturday.

Benyon bagged his second goal in two games and also set up Neil Harris' opener during a man of the match display.

And that came just two days after his girlfriend had given birth to a baby boy named Ollie.

“It's been a great few days for me and that goal was for my new son,” said Benyon, 24.

“He's actually still in hospital so I spoke to my girlfriend about whether or not I should actually play in the game at all.

“But I said I wanted to play and she agreed and I'm really pleased with how it went because it's an important win for us as we've moved back in to the top three.”

Benyon played a huge part in the triumph and netted for the second time in two games having previously scored against Accrington Stanley in his previous game.

The striker shot home from close range following a right wing corner from Ryan Hall.

And he was delighted to see the ball hit the back of the net.

“Scoring against Accrington really helped my confidence and I feel much sharper now,” said Benyon.

“There's no better feeling than seeing the ball hit the back of the net and I want to carry on this form now.”

FULL STORY IN MONDAY'S ECHO