SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher admitted he came close to resting matchwinner Harry Cardwell against Darlington.

Cardwell bagged both Blues’ goals in a 2-1 victory at Roots Hall.

But it was only Tuesday night’s match at Boreham Wood being postponed which led to Cardwell keeping his place in attack.

“I thought it might be a game to give him a rest but with the game being called off in midweek in the end I thought keep going,” said Maher.

“I thought his confidence would be good from last week and for him to build on that was important.

“Without the midweek game we get the recovery right and go again next Saturday now.”

Cardwell’s first goal came early on when he cancelled Jack Lambert’s opener for the visitors with a well-taken header.

And Maher was also pleased with how the forward converted a fine cross from Noor Husin in stoppage time.

“The ball was going into the box and it was a moment of quality from Noor and an unbelievable finish from Harry,” said Maher.

“I’m delighted to get the win but it could have been a lot easier and more comfortable with the chances we had.

“We hit the woodwork three times and had balls off the line but while it was 1-1 they had a good chance and Blondy made a great save.

“We certainly had to work hard for the victory on a very heavy pitch which was very energy sapping too.

“But full credit to the players because they kept on going and going and I always felt we were going to get a chance.

“I fancied us to nick one because of the amount of chances we were getting and thankfully we did.”

However, the afternoon got off to the worst possible start when an offside looking Lambert put the visitors in front.

But Maher felt the goal was similar to the one Bruno Fernandes netted for Manchester United against Manchester City earlier today.

“We were looking for offside against the lad ahead of play and ahead of our backline,” said Maher.

“The other player has come in behind him and I think it’s similar to the one for United today.

“It was a disappointing start to the game but the reaction was very good and we’re very pleased.”