THE emphasis was very much back on Southend United being together as a team at Burton Albion.

And the change of approach and attitude played a massive part in producing a vastly improved performance and result.

Blues battled hard and unselfishly for each other all afternoon against the Brewers and subsequently reverted back to looking like a solid, well organised side.

Such characteristics and qualities had been sadly lacking during Southend’s slump in form which saw them take just seven point from their previous eight games.

But there was a clear and obvious improvement in their spirit at the weekend.

This was epitomised by the celebrations which followed Neil Harris’ goal as the whole team joined the coaching staff and substitutes in a huge huddle on the side of the pitch.

That sent out a clear message about the improved morale in the camp and showed that the squad appear to have been brought closer together despite the recent troubles of their team-mates.

A stricter discipline code enforced by manager Paul Sturrock would have delighted the majority of the squad who had grown frustrated by the behaviour of a small section of the team.

On top of that, the Scotsman is to also be commended for leaving out Ryan Hall, Kane Ferdinand and Liam Dickinson after their poor behaviour ahead of the match at Morecambe.

Bilel Mohsni was absent as well but the victory proved that the best 11 players do not always make up the best team. Blues have lost only five of the 21 games Mohsni has not started this season and the team appear far more together when he is not involved.

This could yet lead to Mohsni soon leaving the club but, whatever happens to the Frenchman, the focus for Southend will remain on securing promotion.

The team looked stronger with the additions of goalkeeper Cameron Belford and left-back Lee Hills. But, while one victory should not spark an over-reaction, Saturday’s display and the spirit on show suggested Blues again look capable of pushing for automatic promotion this season.