SOUTHEND United head coach Kevin Maher felt his side’s 2-0 win at Yeovil Town had been a long time coming.

The Shrimpers headed to Huish Park having been beaten in their last seven games.

And Maher was delighted to see Blues get back on track.

“It’s been a long time coming in terms of results,” said Maher.

“There have been games where we’ve played well and lost but I’m delighted for the players and the staff to have that winning feeling in the dressing room because it’s been too long.

“I’ve been lower than a snake’s belly the last couple of weeks too but my kids will be happier tonight when I’m home!”

The Shrimpers had worked their way into the play-off positions, despite the club’s off-field issues, before the losing sequence began.

But Maher always feared there would a drop off given how deep his players have been forced to dig throughout the season.

“The lads have given absolutely everything and we got ourselves into a position at a time we probably shouldn’t have done,” said Maher.

“There was always going to be a time when, after the stress they had been under, that there was going to be a drop off.

“They’re human beings first and footballers second so what we hoped was to pick up some results during that period but they went against us for whatever reason.

“We take responsibilities when we don’t play well but we knew we would bounce back.”

The Shrimpers did just that against Yeovil with Jake Hyde setting them on their way with a well-taken finish in the first half.

And Maher was pleased to see the fit-again forward back among the goals.

“I’m delighted for him and we know he can finish when he’s in and around that six yard box,” said Maher.

“He knows the game and has got experience and nous on the pitch.

"It’s something we probably lack because we’re a young team but him and Cards (Harry Cardwell) worked their socks off.”

Cardwell was replaced Rhys Murphy late on and the substitute completed the scoring when hitting the back of the net with his first touch.

And Maher also had words for praise for the substitute striker who was close to being named in the starting line-up.

“Murph was pushing for a start at his old club,” said Maher.

“We know he can finish and that’s the one thing we do know with Murph.

“He knows where the goal is and it was a hell of a finish to be fair to him.

“It put us at ease for the last period too.”

Get more great stories by Chris Phillips delivered to your inbox every day by signing up to our regular newsletter here