SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher was left feeling emotional following the Shrimpers’ shock 4-0 win against Oldham Athletic.

Blues brushed aside their incredibly problematic pre-season to record a comprehensive victory at Roots Hall.

And Maher was unable to contain his delight at the final whistle.

“It was a bit emotional at the end to be fair with everything that’s been going on and everything we’ve been through as staff as well,” said Maher.

“I don’t think anyone turned up today expecting that to happen.

“We were lucky to get the game on and thanks to the fans who turned up last week to help us to do that.

“I believe in the players though and I believe in the football club so you never know what can happen.

“But this is testament to the players and how they go about their business.”

The Shrimpers had been sweating on their place in the National League for much of the summer due to their perilous financial position and only received permission to host their opening fixture at Roots Hall earlier this week after fans helped to clean the stadium.

Maher has also been unable to add to his squad due to a transfer embargo which meant he could he select just four substitutes against the Latics.

But the Shrimpers chief has stayed positive throughout an incredibly testing period.

“In adversity you put in building blocks for success,” said Maher.

“We spoke about that before the game and you find out about people in these times.

“Of course everyone is delighted but they’re quite calm as well to be fair.

“I think there are a few tired bodies in there and we won’t get too far ahead of ourselves.

“I think it was an outpouring of relief and everything we needed but we’ll start focusing on the next game.”

Blues will head to Dagenham & Redbridge on a high next weekend.

And Maher was pleased how strongly his side started their opening day encounter.

“We started ever so well,” said the Blues boss.

“We had a couple off the line and had an appeal for a penalty which I thought might have been given.

“It felt like we were knocking on the day so it was nice to get the goal when we were on top.

“It was good for Powelly (Callum Powell) too.

“He took the goal ever so well to put us in front.”

The Shrimpers then turned on the style in the closing stages with Oli Coker, Dan Mooney and Harry Cardwell all on target.

And Maher was thrilled to see the chances being converted.

“We were here a few times last year winning by the odd goal and Oldham was one of them actually,” said Maher.

“So to go and add the goals we did at the end was very pleasing, especially against a strong side.

“There’s no doubt they will be up around it.

“They’ve recruited ever so well and they’re a good football club.

“But the strength of the club is the fans and the staff who have stayed loyal to the club.

“They deserve that as much as anyone today.

“I’m delighted for them that they can all go home happy.”