SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown felt the narrow 1-0 win against Accrington Stanley was superb for his side’s season but not his appearance!

Blues dug deep to secure all three points at Roots Hall, with Barry Corr scoring the only goal of the game.

But the closeness of the clash did not make the win easy viewing.

“There was probably a bit of anxiety around this game and it’s probably why I’m starting to show signs of age,” said Brown.

“The grey hairs are coming through more regularly and my blood pressure is probably starting to rise as well but it’s all very close and very important too at this stage of the season.

“The result was exactly what we needed though and after our best result of the season at Rochdale on Friday I think getting three points here was probably our best grind of the season too.”

The victory virtually secured a play-off finish for the Shrimpers.

But Brown was keen to point out his players will not be resting on their laurels.

“When we knew the top three were out of reach we focused on the play-offs and now we’re there we will focus on trying to win them,” said the Blues boss.

“We still have two league games to go against Fleetwood and Burton who have been up there all season.

“They will give us real tests but we want to take this winning mentality in to those games and maintain this momentum ahead of the play-offs.

“I’m also delighted with the clean sheet mentality we have at this football club now and that also needs to be in place for the play-offs.”