#Southend FC boss Phil Brown hails team’s ‘confidence’ following 3-1 win against Coventry

Blues boss Phil Brown felt his sides performance showed great character and quality as they secured a comfortable 3-1 victory at home to Coventry City.

Anthony Wordsworth scored after just six minutes before second half goals from Anton Ferdinand and an own goal from goalkeeper Lee Burge put Blues three up.

Daniel Agyei added a consolation, and Brown said he was happy with some of the combination play on show.

“Tuesday night’s match was a bit of a dress rehearsal for today,” he said.

“Our play was a lot more fluent which was pleasing. The solidness in defence is something to behold but the only disappointment today is that we didn’t keep a clean sheet”.

The Southend boss did also point out that the three goals that his side scored were well taken and that they had numerous chances to extend that lead.

“I know it’s pantomime season but when they’re on stage and the lights come on you want them to play their part and that’s more or less what my players are doing. In the final third you’ve got the likes of Woody, Coxy, Ranger and Macca who have all got the ability and the confidence at the moment.”

Brown spoke about the good start that Blues made and was pleased for Anthony Wordsworth: “It was one of his easiest chances he’s had all season but of course you’ve still got to put it in the back of the net. At 1-0 its always tight so to get the second and third when we did was important.”

Ferdinand scored his first Southend goal and Brown had special praise for his captain.

“He reads the game so well and it has helped Tommo massively.” Unfortunately he had to come off towards the end but the Blues boss confirmed he will ‘wrap him in cotton wool’ for the next couple of days and get ready for Oldham next week.