SOUTHEND United manager Mark Molesley hailed the returning Roots Hall faithful after the Shrimpers’ 1-0 win against Scunthorpe United.

James Olayinka bagged the only goal of the game 10 minutes from time as rock bottom Southend secured their first home win of the season.

And Molesley felt having fans back inside the ground for the first time since March proved key.

“That win was for the players and the fans, that’s the difference,” said Molesley.

“That was a real game of football today and it felt like the first game of the season.

“Our season starts today and it was fantastic.

“They pushed us on and really were that 12th man.

“What a difference they made and they really pushed the boys because we had lads out there we haven’t played for a long time.”

The bottom of the table Blues, who were roared on by 2,000 fans, now sit four points from safety.

And Molesley was pleased with the battling qualities shown by his side.

“You saw a strong, tough performance and we were hard to beat,” said Molesley.

“We weren’t great on the ball at times but where we are at the moment we’re battling.

“We were always in the game and we managed to find the goal at the right time.”

And the three points also came as a big relief for Molesley who triumphed at Roots Hall for the first time since being appointed in the summer.

“After a win there’s always relief,” said Molesley.

“It hasn’t been the best of starts and there’s been some tough circumstances.

“We’re bitterly disappointed with where we are in the division but we’re working hard to fix it as quickly as we can.”