LIAM Dickinson insisted Southend United always knew they would be in for a battle at Dagenham and Redbridge yesterday.

Dickinson was on target for high flying Blues as they triumphed 3-2 against their struggling hosts at Victoria Road.

But Paul Sturrock's side were forced to dig deep to pick up the victory.

“We're delighted to have won but it was a very tough and physical game for us,” said Dickinson, 26.

“We always knew it was going to be like that because we'd already played Dagenham in the JPT Trophy and in a behind closed doors friendly at the training ground this season and it had been the same both times.

“They also made a couple of new signings just before the game to give themselves a lift and they really did test us.

“However, I think it was a fully deserved win for us in the end.”

Dickinson also played a huge part in helping Southend came out on top as he converted a cross from Bilel Mohsni in the first half.

And, after the break, he also set up the winning goal for Kane Ferdinand.

“I've not scored too many goals from open play this season so it was nice to get one,” said Dickinson, who has now netted seven goals this term.

“In truth it really doesn't matter who scores as long as we're winning but I'd been having a bit of banter with Ryan Hall ahead of the game so it was good timing.

“I keep on telling him I'm not going to score if he doesn't ever pass but now I need to try and keep playing like this every week.”

Dickinson had endured a slight dip in form before impressing against the Daggers.

But, despite having scored just once in his previous eight games, he claimed his confidence had not suffered.

“I've been on worse runs than that before and didn't score at all last season so it wasn't affecting me at all,” said Dickinson.

“My target is to get to double figures this year and we have a lot of games coming up in the next few weeks so hopefully it won't take me long to get there."