SOUTHEND United head coach Kevin Maher felt his side dominated their clash with Altrincham.

Goals from Harry Cardwell and Wes Fonguck secured the Shrimpers a 2-1 victory at Roots Hall.

And Maher was full of praise for the performance which saw Blues fight back from going a goal down early on.

“On the whole the performance was very good and we felt we deserved the result,” said Maher.

“We had the setback early in the first half but we dominated the game.

“We stayed patient and the goals were the least we deserved in the first half.”

However, Maher was not surprised Altrincham posed a threat early on.

“They’re dangerous on the counter,” said Maher.

“Conn-Clarke is a top player and he finished the goal ever so well.

“But I was delighted with the players and Cav was brilliant after that.

“He was really composed with the ball and we got back in the game.”

Cardwell netted his 14th goal of the season to being Blues back level before Fonguck netted what proved to be the winner on the stroke of half-time.

And Maher was happy to see the duo on the score-sheet.

“We gave Danny (Waldron) a rest but for Cards I thought it was important to keep going off the back of a goal on Saturday,” said Maher.

“Marcus (Dackers) did well brilliantly to nod it back and he showed good strength and a good finish.

“I’m delighted for him because he had three or four good shots but we carried it on.

“We said to keep going and keep playing your football.

“It could’ve been four or five before half-time and the keeper has made some good saves.

“We’re disappointed it wasn’t one or two more but overall we more than deserved it.”

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