SOUTHEND United striker Harry Cardwell says it is a pleasure to play for the Shrimpers – irrespective of his scoring record.

Cardwell got back among the goals in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Gateshead.

And the striker, who has now hit the back of the net 12 times this term, is keen to keep on helping Kevin Maher’s side.

“It's always nice to get back in the goals after a few games without one but it’s about doing a job for the team,” said Cardwell.

“We all work so hard for each other and it’s actually a pleasure to play with the lads, the manager and his staff.

“Goal or no goal I honestly love playing for this group.”

Cardwell had gone six games without a goal before getting back on the score-sheet at the weekend.

But the 27-year-old did all he could to stay in a positive frame of mind.

“I always watch back my old goals before games to put myself in the mindset of scoring goals,” said Cardwell.

“You just stay positive and keep on getting in the right areas.”

And that ultimately led to Cardwell’s goal on Saturday as he fired home from close range after Gateshead goalkeeper Archie Mair had parried out a low volley from Gus Scott-Morriss.

“It was a nice one but it’s one of those when you’ve got to concentrate on lifting it,” said Cardwell.

“Keepers work so hard on saving a shot and getting back up so I knew he would dive back down to my feet and I had try lift it a bit.

“But once I saw the net bulge I was straight off in front of the fans.”

Cardwell’s close range finish made sure of a point for the Shrimpers.

But it was another tough test for Blues.

“We dug deep for that one,” said Cardwell.

“We knew before hand it was going to be a tough place to come.

“They play good football and the football they play is really intricate.

“It’s pure football if you like but after the first 20 minutes we changed shape and dealt with it quite well.

“We’re happy to get a point and it was massive to back up the win against Chesterfield with a performance that deserved a point or all three.”

Cardwell’s well-taken effort made sure the Shrimpers avoided defeat.

But they were again forced to overcome a number of issues, including having only two substitutes.

“We’re so used to it now,” said Cardwell.

“It’s a group like I haven’t been in before and it’s unbelievable some of the things we do as players, staff and fans all together.

“We’re all so tight knit as one club and it’s a real credit to the management team the way they get us playing.”