The Report: Southend 3 Chesterfield 0

I’d hoped Southend could beat Chesterfield, but felt a draw was the more likely outcome in the League 2 promotion battle. Winning three-nil, as we did at Roots Hall on Saturday, was great as we made clear our intentions this season are gaining promotion. Hurst, against his former side, was among the goalscorers.

Hurst moved into double figures, scoring his tenth of the season, when he finished on 28 minutes to put Southend ahead and that was enough to ensure we went into half time one-nil up.

Leonard just can’t stop scoring at the moment can he, back in a more familiar midfield role after filling in at right-back last time against Plymouth Argyle. Leonard ran a great distance before giving Lee no chance as the lead was extended on 59 minutes.

On 61 minutes the lead was increased yet further when Corr produced a fine finish, lifting over Lee as he looked to close him down with the points ours with almost half an hour left to play.

Bentley continues to see his reputation grow all the time and if saving a Richards penalty wasn’t enough to prevent any chance of a Chesterfield comeback a great save to deny Gardner was.

Southend have now been beaten just once in fifteen games as the promotion push remains in full swing.