SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher stressed the three points were all the mattered after the Shrimpers’ 1-0 win at Eastleigh.

Blues wasted a number of clean cut chances to secure a more convincing victory.

But Maher was still full of smiles at the final whistle.

“First and foremost to come away from home and win the game is the most important thing and to get a clean sheet was brilliant as well,” said Maher.

“I didn’t feel like they opened us up or that we were under massive pressure for long periods and I’m delighted with the win.”

However, Maher had earlier been fearing it could be a frustrating afternoon for his side after Marcus Dackers, Wes Fonguck and Henry Sandat all wasted clear cut chances to score in the opening 45 minutes.

“The performance in the first half was very, very good,” said Maher.

“We had three absolute clear-cut chances in the first half which we want to take and I’m sure if we get more of them we will score more.

“It’s composure in and around the box and it was one of those days where it looked like it might not go in.

“Thankfully we kept going in the second half and got the goal when we did.

“Jack took it well and it was the least we deserved.”