NEIL Harris was full of smiles after finally scoring his first Southend United goal during Saturday’s 4-0 romp at Rotherham United.

The 34-year-old tucked home a right wing cross from Ryan Leonard to heap more misery on the Millers.

And he was thrilled to open his account for his home-town club.

“It was a very special feeling to get that first goal,” said Harris, who was making his ninth appearance for Blues since signing during the summer.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re 17 or 34 that feeling of getting off the mark for a new club remains exactly the same and it’s even greater for me with it being Southend.”

Harris, who grew up supporting Blues, replaced Blair Sturrock in the starting line-up at the Don Valley Stadium and produced an impressive performance.

That followed on from his influential showing as a substitute against Plymouth Argyle the week before and Harris believes he is now benefiting from the work he did with physiotherapist Ben Clarkson when working his way back from a groin problem.

“When I was out injured just recently I trained really hard for a couple of weeks with Ben and I've felt really sharp since then,” said Harris.

“I had a really good week's training in the build up to this game but getting this kind of result is far more important than me getting a goal.

“I think we've shown our credentials and how good our team spirit is with this kind of display and result but the most important thing is that we don't get carried away by it.

FULL STORY IN MONDAY'S ECHO