CHRISTMAS came early for everyone associated with Southend United on Saturday.

After months of misery and a wretched run of results amid arguably the most painful time in the club’s entire history Blues finally got back to winning ways at the weekend.

And the best thing about it was the fans were back to see it.

A late goal from James Olayinka saw the Shrimpers beat Scunthorpe United and for once it was an afternoon packed full of positives.

The first big piece of good news came before the game had even started as it emerged that a long standing transfer embargo had finally been lifted.

The restrictions, which had been in place for the whole of 2020, had been hindering and restricting Shrimpers boss Mark Molesley in his recruitment and team selection.

But that was not the case on Saturday and the Blues boss immediately brought both Sam Hart and Simeon Akinola into the starting line-up.

The duo could not officially be registered until the embargo was lifted and, after a frustratingly long wait, they were finally given the green light to feature.

And Hart immediately caught the eye with an energetic display on the left flank.

But the duo will take time to find their top form and fitness.

Hart’s appearance was his first appearance of any kind since February while Akinola had played just 17 minutes of football since March before taking to the field on Saturday.

Much has been said about Akinola during his lengthy spell on the sidelines and, with the Shrimpers struggling for goals, he has often been portrayed as something of a saviour.

However, it is important to remain realistic and while it would be fantastic to see Akinola immediately hit the back of the net on a consistent basis, he should be allowed far more appearances before any kind of accurate assessment is made.

Akinola will also be adjusting to having new team-mates around and a new level, having previously played just one season in the Football League.

The striker will be keen to improve on his debut showing at the weekend but several others were able to catch the eye.

Alan McCormack again showed his importance in the centre of the park with the intelligence, aggression and experience which is sorely missed when he is unavailable while, at the back, centre-back Shaun Hobson produced his best performance yet in a Southend shirt.

That helped to ensure Blues picked up a second successive clean sheet for the first time since May 2018 and it ultimately made sure Olayinka’s effort at the other end of the field brought maximum reward.

The midfielder impressively swept home with a right wing cross from Jason Demetriou with a fine, first time finish and the noise it generated from the stands was a rare goosebumps moment at Roots Hall.

Up until the weekend, all home matches had been played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic and those empty stands led to a lack of atmosphere which had made matches seen soulless.

On many occasions, the lack of fans and any noise had made matches feel more like reserve team contests.

But all of that was forgotten on Saturday as 2,000 fans roared Blues on to victory to make it an afternoon to really remember.

No-one could be forgiven for celebrating and enjoying the victory either but, of course problems still remain and Blues are still in deep danger at the foot of the League Two table.

The rock bottom Shrimpers have closed the gap on those above them to four points but will need to make Saturday a turning point in their season if safety is ultimately to be secured.

Staying in the game seems to be the new mantra and Blues are certainly becoming harder to beat. However, a lack of creativity and attacking threat remains a concern and it is an area which must be improved if the Shrimpers are to maintain their Football League status.

Blues do now have the freedom to bolster their attacking options but the recruitment must be right during what could be the club’s most important transfer window yet.

Molesley’s side are still facing a huge task to avoid relegation and Saturday’s spirit - both on the pitch and in the stands - must be the sign of things to come if the feel good factor is to last beyond the festive celebrations and Southend are to avoid slipping into non-league.