Southend United were poised to make an imminent announcement about their new manager today.
Southend United players mob Jay Smith after the midfielder's second great strike sealed an injury-time win for ten-man Blues over local rivals Canvey Picture: ROB BROWNE
And, whoever inherits the vacant Roots Hall hot-seat, will have been boosted by the Blues thrilling 3-2 FA Cup victory at local rivals Canvey Island last night.
A Tes Bramble goal and Jay Smith's stunning second-half double secured a place in round two for the Shrimpers, who had Mark Warren sent off late on.
"It was an exciting game for everyone to be involved with but I'm just happy to get a win in a local derby," said Smith who scored a last gasp winner.
"We've given the fans something to smile about now and, from a personal point of view, it was the best moment of my career.
"As soon as I hit the second one I knew it was in and I was delighted to see it hit the back of the net."
Smith had earlier brought the Blues back level with an low, long-range effort -- and admitted caretaker chief David Webb had helped raise his confidence.
"I just broke through and thought 'hit it'," recalled the former Aston Villa trainee.
"Sometimes in those kind of positions I tend to hesitate a little bit but the gaffer has given me a lot of confidence now.
"He's been telling me to go for goal more so I took his advice against Canvey and luckily it went my way."
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Published Thursday November 20, 2003
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