Southend United secured a 3-1 win over AFC Fylde to strengthen their position in the National League promotion race. The victory on Saturday afternoon at Roots Hall lifts the Shrimpers to third in the table with 24 points from 12 games.
Danny Oldaker gave the hosts a dream start, firing home from a low cross by Lamine Chambers-Parillon after just two minutes. The lead was doubled in the 13th minute when AFC Fylde defender Ben Goodliffe turned the ball into his own net under pressure.
AFC Fylde improved after the break but any hope of a comeback was extinguished six minutes into the second half. Goodliffe atoned for his earlier error by heading in from a corner to restore Southend's three-goal cushion. The visitors' only consolation was a late strike, but the points were already safe.
The result extends Southend's solid recent form to three wins, one draw and one loss from their last five matches. They now sit eight points behind leaders Boreham Wood but are firmly in the playoff picture.
Oldaker received a yellow card late in the first half for a foul, while AFC Fylde's Tom Whelan was also booked. Maher utilised his bench, bringing on Oli Coker, Peter Omochere, Zak Massiah-Edwards and Harry Taylor in the second period to manage the game.
Southend's next challenge is a trip to face Boston United, who are currently 20th, on Saturday 10 October. Check our fixtures page for the full schedule ahead.
The club stated the decision was made after a review of the team's direction. Southend, who are third in the National League with 24 points from 12 games, said an update on a new manager will follow in due course.
