Brown’s Battlers At Gigg Lane

Manager Phil Brown praised the side for digging in and battling to victory in last night’s one nil victory over Bury.

In the fourth v fifth battle for the play off spots this season, Southend came out on top courtesy of a goal from David Worrall and speaking to the Official Site Brown had to admit we were hardly at our best on the evening but that just meant he had to praise the determination and mental strength of the players – especially Worrall as a private moment came to light following the game.

‘We didn’t play particularly well in the first half and Bury were the better team. We got into them at half time and the character was fantastic. It was phenomenal response.’

As for the goalscorer, making a return to his former club, Brown added.

‘Dave wants to dedicate that goal to his son, who died after just 45 minutes. He demanded the ball and stuck it in the top corner. He and his girlfriend have been through the mill and that’s been part of the reason why he hasn’t played recently. He wanted to play the game. He wanted to start. He knew how important it is to get this Club out of this division.’

Brown also had praise for the defence who kept a seventh consecutive clean sheet in the game.

‘In the first half they had lots of shots, chances and possession. We defended excellently. I always ask players to put their body on the line and the old warhorse – Adam Barrett this time – put his body on the line and almost lost a pair in the first half! Dan Bentley did well and Cian Bolger was magnificent as well. It’s six wins on the bounce. It’s a massive game at Roots Hall against Luton Town on Saturday.’

For Worrall himself, he was also interviewed after the game and he explained.

‘That goal was for my son Noah and for my girlfriend. I went to his grave this morning and told him I was playing back in Bury. I felt like crying when I scored. I knew my son was watching over me. The lads have all been brilliant. They haven’t left me alone and we all spend so much time together – they’re like a family to me.’

I certainly wasn’t aware of the personal tragedy and I’m not sure how many others were, but I’m sure I speak for everyone in wishing him and his family the best at this time.