Southend United heroes reunite to raise funds for Havens Hospices

Adam Barrett, Freddy Eastwood, Steve Tilson, Kevin Maher and Mark Gower were brought back together to recall their League One title-winning season in 2006.

And Maher, who captained Blues to the title, thoroughly enjoyed the evening.

“It was a brilliant night and it brought back some great memories too,” said Maher.

“Captaining that team and picking up the trophy was the highlight of my career and it was just such a special time.

“Every day you looked forward to coming to work because you were with your mates and it was special.

“We had 16 players all drinking together up in the Blues Lounge with the fans after the game and I don’t think you get that enough anymore at all clubs.

“We had that with this team and it was funny remembering the things that went on.”

Gower’s quick one-liners and own personal memories entertained the packed Arlington Ballroom.

And the former midfielder also admitted he loved every single minute of his spell with the Shrimpers.

“Without being cheesy, we all go on a journey as footballers but mine would not have been possible without those years I had at Southend,” said Gower.

“I went on to play for Swansea and it was great, but I would often think about that day we had there with Southend.

“It’s a memory that will always be close to me and it was a great time.

“I remember going on a Christmas party to Ireland once.

“We got into a club at about nine because we’re Southend, not Liverpool, so we were worried about not getting in.

“We were the only people in there and for some reason I decided to throw an ice cube and said right lets have some fun.

“Unfortunately for me, it hit the manager and I had to leave.

“But I’ll never forget Kev left with me so I wasn’t on my own and that showed the spirit we had.”

And Tilson - who managed the team - also reflected on his time at Roots Hall with great fondness.

“I used to stand on the North Bank and watch Southend so it meant a lot to be the manager,” said Tilson.

“I think as a team we had a real affinity with the supporters and I’m not sure that’s been there since, although Chris Powell could well change that because he’s a top guy.”

And Barrett echoed those sentiments.

“It was a great time,” said the former defender.

“I came back and we had Wembley, which was great, but nothing will match that spirit we had back then.”

The evening - which was sponsored by Trade Price Cars - was organised by Echosport’s Chris Phillips alongside the club themselves.

The exact amount raised has yet to be worked out but it has already been confirmed that thousands were made for the charity.