SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown felt his side were comfortable in their 2-0 triumph against Mansfield Town.

First half goals from Barry Corr and Will Atkinson secured all three points for the Shrimpers.

And Brown was thrilled to get back to winning ways.

“I'm delighted with the win,” said the 55-year-old “The energy levels and the discipline were excellent and we should have had a goal or two more in the first half.

“It was a comfortable 2-0 as well and although they threw things at us in the latter stages, Dan Bentley didn't really have to make a save of any note.”

As a result, the Shrimpers shot-stopper secured his ninth successive clean sheet at Roots Hall, meaning the goals at the other end of the pitch enabled Blues to pick up all three points.

And Brown was particularly pleased to see Atkinson score his first goal of the season.

“Will has to add goals to his game and that was probably one of the reasons Bradford let him go,” said Brown.

“He's looking to add that to his game and it was a really good day at the office for him after getting his first one of the season.”

The effort also helped Blues close the gap on third placed Wycombe Wanderers to eight points with a game in hand.

And Brown is now keen to build on the win and secure a successful end to the season.

“It's tight at the top of the table and there's pressure on the players and the teams,” said the Shrimpers chief.

“But if we emulate what we did at the end of last year then we will end up with more than 80 points.”