SOUTHEND United winger Stephen McLaughlin hailed the Shrimpers’ fighting spirit following their 4-2 win at Fleetwood Town.

Phil Brown’s side conceded just seconds after taking an early lead.

But McLaughlin was thrilled with how Blues were able to deal with the setback.

“When they scored I stood there in amazement because I just couldn’t believe it,” said the Irishman.

“I was hoping it was going to be offside or something but we were able to dust ourselves down and went again which I think was the most positive thing.

“We kept on doing what we were meant to be doing, we stuck to our game plan and got ourselves back in the lead again.

“Maybe before we might have sunk away but we didn’t do that this time and that was really good to see.”

McLaughlin was also responsible for putting Blues back in front with a neatly taken strike.

And the winger is thrilled to be playing a prominent part for the Shrimpers after struggling to get into the starting line-up at the start of the season.

“I’m really pleased to have got an assist and a goal,” said McLaughlin who was on the bench for Blues’ first four league games.

“It had been tough for me at the start but I’m glad to be helping the team get three points again and I was happy with the goal as well, especially as it was with my right foot.

“It was a great feeling to see it go in because it could have gone anywhere!”

However, McLaughlin also insisted Blues were not completely satisfied with their first ever win at the Highbury Stadium.

“We’re happy enough but we’re very disappointed with the goals we conceded,” said the 27-year-old.

“Thankfully we were able to get more goals at the other end and we all knew a team were going to get it soon enough because of the number of chances we had been creating.

“Thankfully we took the opportunities this time but know we have to make sure this win kick starts our season.”

Blues will now be bidding for another three points against AFC Wimbledon at Roots Hall tomorrow night.

And McLaughlin insists he will be fit to figure despite coming off with a knee injury midway through the second half on Saturday.

“The gaffer took me off as a precaution and I’ll be fine to play,” said McLaughlin.

“We want another win but it’s going to be tough.”