SOUTHEND United striker Stephen Humphrys was pleased to finally give the Shrimpers fans something to cheer about on Saturday.

Humphrys bagged a brace in Blues’ 3-3 draw with Fleetwood Town at Roots Hall.

And the forward - who turned 22 yesterday - was thrilled to help his side pick up their first point of the League One season.

“It’s been awful for the fans and I just wanted to give them something to cheer about,” said Humphrys.

“They’ve stuck with us since the start of the season and the best feeling is we’ve given the fans something to feel good about.”

Humphrys bagged two equalisers for Blues in the second half at the weekend, with his second coming just three minutes from time.

And that made it a solid start for caretaker boss Gary Waddock, who Humphrys is already enjoying playing for.

“I really like Gary,” said the former Fulham forward.

“He’s a very, very good coach and manager and a good guy too.

“He speaks to you one on one and you know what he wants from you.

“Just small things like calling me over to say well done for getting the free-kick for Macca’s goal gives you a real buzz and you want to work for him.

Waddock has stepped up to take charge of the Shrimpers on a caretaker basis following the departure of Kevin Bond.

And Humphrys feels the 57-year-old has already made a positive impact.

“We feel a lot more positive this week and Gary has had a lot to do with that because he gives you a real sense he cares,” said the forward.

“This has been the best week of training since we came back for pre-season too.

“We also had a real plan going into the game. Everyone knew what was expected of them and we worked on the tactics and the free-kicks too

“We all knew what we were doing and we had a good feeling.”

“The spirit is good as well and I think that’s reflected in us coming back to get our first point.”

Blues will now be looking to build on the draw and Humphrys will also be seeking more goals after a frustrating start to the season which saw him on the bench for four of the first five games.

“When I wasn’t selected earlier in the season I was frustrated and angry,” said Humphrys.

“But the way I took my shots gets rid of some of that aggression and turns it into a positive.”