Southend United moved to the top of the National League with a 3-1 comeback victory away at Solihull Moors this week. The win puts the Shrimpers ahead of Sutton United on goals scored after three consecutive wins to start the season.
Jacob Wakeling gave bottom-placed Solihull Moors a shock lead after 14 minutes as they chased their first points of the campaign. Southend responded well and Oli Coker leveled the score in the 28th minute. Josh Popoola, who joined the club from Maidenhead United, then put the visitors ahead before the interval. Charley Kendall sealed the three points with a stoppage-time finish, confirming a 3-1 final score.
Conceding early to a team desperate for a result could have derailed Southend's momentum. Instead, the response was immediate and controlled. Oli Coker's equalizer settled any nerves and shifted the pressure back onto the home side. Josh Popoola's goal before half-time was a major turning point, giving Southend a lead to protect and build upon in the second half. Manager Kevin Maher will be pleased with the character shown by his squad to recover from a deficit on the road.
The victory sends Southend United to the summit of the National League table. They are level on nine points with Sutton United but hold the advantage due to a superior goals-scored tally. This strong start is built on a solid defensive record, with only two goals conceded across the opening three fixtures. The team's current form of three wins from three is a powerful platform, though they remain one point behind the overall leaders, Boreham Wood.
Oli Coker's goal to draw the team level was vital for changing the game's complexion. Josh Popoola demonstrated his value as a new signing by scoring the go-ahead goal, showing the attacking threat he adds to the squad. Charley Kendall's late strike ensured the points were secure and boosted the team's goal difference, which could be important later in the season. The collective effort across the pitch allowed Southend to dominate after the early setback and control large portions of the match.
Sitting second with a perfect record, Southend must now prepare for the challenges ahead. The focus turns to maintaining this early-season form and closing the one-point gap to Boreham Wood at the top. The squad's depth and the contributions from new signings like Popoola will be tested across a busy schedule. Fans can look ahead to the next fixtures on our fixtures page. With seven goals scored and a +5 goal difference, the team has shown both attacking potency and defensive resilience, a combination that will be essential for any sustained title challenge.
