CHRIS Powell continued his unbeaten start as Southend United manager with a 3-1 win against Portsmouth on Saturday – despite admitting the Shrimpers were not at their best.

A brace from Jason Demetriou and an own goal from visiting defender Matt Clarke handed Powell a fourth victory in five games.

But the Blues boss felt his side were not at their best.

“We didn’t play well and that’s the strange thing about it but it’s the end of a three game week and I think that takes a lot out of you.,” said Powell.

“Maybe that had something to do with how we started but on the flip side we found ourselves 2-0 up after 12 minutes and managed the game well after that.

“Conceding like we did before half-time made it a bit edgy but Michael Turner and Anton Ferdinand played really, really well and were very clever with how they defended.

“Seven points from these three games, including wins against Wigan and Portsmouth is also exceptional and I’m very proud of the football club.”

The Shrimpers have now risen to 13th in the League One standings.

And Powell was full of praise for defender Demetriou who now tops Blues’ scoring charts with eight goals so far this season.

“JD is a good finisher, he’s got a couple of goals and I gave him a standing ovation which I thought he deserved,” said Powell.

“He’s been very, very good and he took his goals well.

“I’m told his second was actually an own goal but I’ll let him claim it.

“We’ve now scored three goals in all three of my home games and I couldn’t really ask for any more.”

However, Powell will not be getting carried away by his fine start which has seen the Shrimpers take 13 points from a possible 15 .

“All anyone should be talking and thinking about is the next game which is Oldham away,” said the 48-year-old.

“I’m thinking about that game already but my players deserve a bit of a rest.

“I want them to enjoy some time with their families and friends and be ready to come back in on Tuesday.

“But I don’t want anyone looking any further ahead than Oldham and my mantra is just take it one game at a time and just focus on that.”