SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown hailed his side’s resilience after they fought back to beat Scunthorpe 2-1 at Roots Hall on Saturday.

Goals from Michael Timlin and Ben Coker secured all three points for the Shrimpers.

And Brown was thrilled by how Blues responded to going a goal behind.

“Our resilience stood us in good stead today and to win it after going behind is testament to the character of the players,” said the 56-year-old.

“It’s been a great day at the office and I feel as though we’re just starting to establish ourselves in League One now which is what I’ve been after.

“This was a great result but we really did have to work tirelessly to get it.”

The victory also gave Blues back to back victories for the first time this season.

And Brown felt Timlin’s equaliser nine minutes before the break was crucial in Southend again coming out on top.

“The Michael Timlin goal was the key factor for me,” said the Shrimpers chief.

“It settled everyone down because I think the early goal Scunthorpe scored shocked everyone.

“It took us about 25 minutes to have an attack but the equaliser got us going again.

“We had to be patient after that, just like I said before the game, because I felt Scunthorpe came for a point.

“But in the end we found that bit of quality to win the game from our left-back.”

Coker blasted home a fine effort 15 minutes from time having previously made Timlin’s equaliser.

And Brown is certain the defender has the talent to move up the leagues.

“Ben has a good footballing brain and he’s one of those who can definitely play at a higher level,” said the former Hull City boss.

“He’s mixing his game up and he’s becoming a problem for opposing teams which is music to my ears, just like this result.”