NATHAN Ralph says Southend United are only looking up following their impressive 2-0 win against Eastleigh.

Shrimpers skipper Ralph was joined on the score-sheet by Jack Bridge as Kevin Maher's side triumphed against the high-flying Spitfires.

And Ralph felt it was a hugely encouraging evening for Blues.

"I was really pleased and I think the boys put a great shift in," said Ralph.

"We played our football, we looked like ourselves and it's probably some of the best football we've played this season on what was a really good pitch which helps us massively.

" It was an important game and a big three points.

"We've got new players coming in and we're only going to get better as a team.

"We'll be more together and will only be looking up."

Blues' win against the Spitfires was their second of the season.

And Ralph was pleased to set the Shrimpers on their way with his first goal of the campaign.

"I just saw Bridgey get the cross in but there were bodies in the way so I couldn't really see where it was going," said Ralph.

"The gaffer and the staff keep getting on about being at the back post so I made sure I was there and luckily the ball appeared.

"It was a great ball from Bridgey and luckily I could tap it in."

Bridge added just before the break to make sure of all three points.

But Ralph still feels there is room for improvement.

"We said we wanted to keep doing more of the same in the second half but naturally I think you want to protect what you've got in terms of a lead," said Ralph.

"That's something we can look at but we still had spells in the second half where we could've scored again and it was a really positive performance."

However, Ralph is keen to keep the momentum going, starting with Saturday's clash at home to Sutton United.

"It makes draws like Saturday an even better result but we wanted the win and the clean sheet so we're really pleased," said the defender.

"We'll rest up now and work on things for Saturday before we go again in front of the home fans.