SOUTHEND United striker Rhys Murphy felt tonight’s 4-1 victory against Dover Athletic was a step in the right direction for the Shrimpers.

Murphy scored twice as Blues got back to winning ways in Kevin Maher’s first home game in charge.

And the 31-year-old was delighted with the three points.

“It’s really pleasing,” said Murphy.

“Since the new management team have come in we’ve seen a reaction and improvements week by week.

“We haven’t had the results but it’s going to take time.

“Tonight is a step in the right direction but we won’t get ahead of ourselves.

“It’s a big relief to win and it’s pleasing to get some goals, especially at home in front of our fans who have stuck with us and been fantastic.

“It feels good to give them something back but we have to look towards Saturday now.”

Blues head to Chesterfield in the first round of the FA Cup this weekend.

And Murphy will head into the clash on a high after scoring twice against Dover.

“It’s what we’re in the team to do,” said Murphy.

“As forwards you want to be scoring goals so it felt great to be back on the score-sheet and hopefully now I can go on a run.”

Murphy now has six goals for the season and his latest efforts helped Blues bag an important win against a Dover side sitting bottom of the table.

"They’re down there as well so it was important to get the win," said Murphy.

"It’s a crucial three points and it’s good for the morale too.

"It shows we’re doing the right things.

"I’ve seen and felt the improvements so it felt good it’s culminated in a victory tonight.