HOME is finally where the heart is for Southend United matchwinner Harry Cardwell.

After going 11 months without scoring at Roots Hall, the Shrimpers striker made it three goals in the space of eight days by bagging a brace in Saturday’s 2-1 FA Trophy win against Darlington.

And Cardwell - who joined Blues a year ago this week - is thrilled to finally be hitting the back of the net in front of the club’s fans.

“It was one of those things in the back of my mind,” said Cardwell.

“Luckily I got the first one last week and then to get two more today is pleasing for myself.

“It’s a big win for us too.”

Cardwell’s first goal came just four minutes after Jack Lambert had given Darlington an early lead.

And the forward felt it was key Kevin Maher’s side were quickly back on level terms.

“It was important,” said Cardwell.

“After the first goal so early on we were shocked.

“The lads were convinced it was offside so to get back on level terms so quickly was really important and gave us a foothold in the game.”

However, Blues had to remain patient in their pursuit of a winner, which finally came when Cardwell guided home an excellent left wing cross from Noor Husin deep into stoppage time.

But the 26-year-old was always confident the Shrimpers would score a second goal to work their way into the last 16 of the competition.

“It was one of those games it wasn’t going in for us in the second half but luckily the breakthrough came towards the end of the game,” said Cardwell.

“They had a few chances as well so I wouldn’t say it was one way traffic but I did feel like it was when not if we were going to score.”

The victory was the Shrimpers’ second in succession.

And it came after plenty of practise on the training ground.

“We’ve done a lot of work on Bridgey and Noor getting in those kind of areas the goal came from and getting balls into the box,” said Cardwell.

“I’ve always said whip it in if you get half a yard and I’ll try my best to get on the end of it.

“Luckily it paid off today because we wanted to build on the 3-0 win against Solihull.

“It was important to keep the momentum going.”

But Cardwell always knew it was going to be tough against an in-form Darlington who started the day top of National League North.

“They’re a good side and they’re top of their division,” said Cardwell.

“I’ve played in that league and they’re are some good sides and some good players in there.

“It’s always going to be difficult and they’re used to winning football matches so it’s a good win for us.”

And Cardwell – who missed the first three months of the season with an ankle injury – was pleased to have sent the Shrimpers a step nearer to a Wembley final.

“It’s always pleasing to get on the score-sheet,” said Cardwell.

“I said the same last week but strikers are judged on goals and I’m happy to contribute again.

“This is also a competition we can get to Wembley in and not many non-league players get to do that so hopefully we can keep it going.

“Even if the play-off in this league now doesn’t always go to Wembley so it’s a massive opportunity.

“It’s a nice habit to keep on winning too.”