SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher thought the Shrimpers looked more like themselves during this afternoon’s 1-0 win at Eastleigh.

An injury-time effort from substitute Bim Pepple saw Blues progress into the first round proper of the FA Cup for the first time since 2021.

And Maher was delighted to get back to winning ways after two defeats in succession.

“Everyone worked their socks off and we looked more like ourselves today but there’s still more to do, we know that,” said Maher.

“Getting through was obviously the aim and winning it late on like that makes it even sweeter.

“I’m really pleased for the lads because it’s been a tough couple of weeks and they’ve had to show a bit of character which they did.”

However, Maher admitted the victory was far from straight-forward against the Spitfires.

“They’re a good side, they’re experienced and they ask questions of you that you have to stand up to,” said the Blues boss.

“It’s tough but the defenders deserve a lot of credit for the clean sheet.”

And, at the other end of the field, Pepple’s late strike – which somehow deceived Eastleigh goalkeeper Joe McDonnell – proved decisive in getting back on track.

“He gets in and I’m not sure where he was aiming but it’s gone in and we’re delighted,” said Maher.

“We said to the lads that we’ve got to stick together and keep working hard .

“That’ s a message right throughout the club too.

“We stick together because we’ve been through worst times than losing a couple of football matches so let’s not overreact.

“We’ll keep working hard and see where it takes us.”