SOUTHEND Saxons’ first team coach Danny Cleare has expressed his pride at leading the club to National Three London & SE safety.

Saxons seemed destined for the drop after being being deducted 10 points by the RFU for failing to control their fans in a clash against Colchester.

But Saturday’s 36-14 win against Westcombe Park was Saxons’ fifth in succession and also made them safe from relegation, much to the delight of Cleare who took control of the team in January.

“It means everything to me to maintain National League status,” said Cleare.

“This club is so special and means a lot to me so I do take great pride in what has happened but the the credit goes to the players 100 per cent.

“Everyone has raised their game and given everything to the cause.”

Cleare has guided Southend to seven wins in their last eight games after deciding to alter things around following his appointment.

“There was some important things that needed changing,” said Cleare.

“The first thing was to get rid of people who didn’t fit in with the culture of the club so we were left with people who cared about the club and were prepared to buy into our values.

“The next thing was to tweak our attack and change our defensive structure and both areas have functioned really well.

“Training can also become overly technical at times so sometimes it’s important to just have fun.”