GUS Scott-Morriss believes Southend United’s fighting spirit could lead them to promotion this season.

Blues brushed aside their off-field issues to beat Halifax Town 2-1 at Roots Hall on Tuesday night.

And Scott-Morriss – who is claiming the winning goal – feels Kevin Maher’s side have the togetherness to succeed.

“It’s difficult but this group is willing to fight for each other,” said the right wing-back.

“When you’ve got that, it’s all you need sometimes.

“There will be bumps in the road but I believe we can go all the way and get out of this division.

“It’s going to be tough but with the spirit and willingness to run an extra yard who knows what can happen.”

Blues are currently sixth in the National League standings after winning their last three league games.

That has came amid the troubling backdrop which sees the Shrimpers squad still not knowing when they will be paid their wages for January.

But Scott-Morriss is not getting downbeat.

“We’re privileged to play football and we get around each other,” said the summer signing.

“There are different circumstances for different people but the main thing is we always look after each other.

“That’s the one thing I can vouch for with this group and management is that if someone is struggling then they will be the first ones to go and help them out.

“It’s tough but I won’t sit here and ask for sympathy.

“We play football for a living and we’ll do everything we can to get in the play-offs and keep winning games of football.”

Blues are currently sixth in the National League standings after battling back to beat Halifax Town on Tuesday night.

And Scott-Morriss insists he will be claiming the Shrimpers’ winning goal.

“I’m claiming it, 100 per cent. It hit my shoulder and then went towards goal,” said the 25-year-old.

“To be fair, it did hit a few bodies on the way but they don’t want the own goal do they so I’m having it!

“It’s a bit of a tough time at the moment so we’ll take anything that comes our way.”

And the Shrimpers are continuing to show incredible character.

“It just shows what’s in that dressing room,” said Scott-Morriss.

“It’s not the easiest time to be around this club at the moment as a player as has been well documented.

“But it just shows the spirit the group has.

“This team doesn’t know when it’s beaten.

“It doesn’t matter who we’re playing and what’s going on, even if we’re losing we know we’re in with a chance.

“We showed that in the second half too.

“With the boys in there and the management as well we’ve got spirit in abundance.”