TEN-MAN Southend United secured an historic victory with a 2-1 win over Portsmouth tonight.

Blues came back from a goal down thanks to Will Atkinson and Barry Corr to secure a first away victory over Pompey at Fratton Park.

Basildon-born Andy Barcham put the hosts ahead in the second minute with a fine shot from outside the box after kick-off was delayed by 15 minutes due to an accident on the A3.

Things got worse for Phil Brown's team in the 66th minute when substitute Cauley Woodrow was sent off for serious foul play.

But Atkinson got Blues on terms in the 76th minute with a left-footed shot from inside the area after being teed up by Corr.

The striker then scored the winner in the 82nd minute from close range to ensure the victory, which was Southend's first away to Portsmouth in 93 years and moved them up to third in the League Two table.

Pompey had dismissed manager Guy Whittingham on the eve oft he match following four straight defeats and caretaker boss Andy Awford was unable to stop the rot as Southend won their fourth consecutive game.

It was a historic win for the Shrimpers, who recorded their first away win against Portsmouth in 16 attempts.