Although it was a three-goal win, the difference in the sides on the day was a lot closer then the scoreline suggested but it was nice to see the crowd 'suck' in a couple of goals for us with their support after Southend left themselves short in pursuit of an equaliser. The 3-0 result puts an end to what I hope was a blip and we can now build again on our excellent home record as we strive for greater things.

Returning to the subject of suspensions, because of the way the system operates, we've lost another two players just as three more are returning from a ban. There was a ruling last season which allowed one yellow card to be taken off for every five consecutive clean games and I feel that we have almost moved back a step this season,

Marc and Paul have both gone a long while before picking up these suspensions and it's encouraging that we've not been hit by suspensions until now. However, it is worrying that our good disciplinary record means that the bans are now starting to come together at a critical stage of the season.

The bans do put pressure on such a small squad and the younger players have got to learn from their actions and get on with it. Although our squad is a year older than last season it's still a learning process for the youngsters in our team.

Turning my attention to tonight's vistors, I would like to extend a warm welcome to everybody connected with Hull City, and especially their manager Warren Joyce and his assistant John McGovern, who I played with at Derby. Warren and John are helping to take their side away from the bottom of the table.

A few months ago Hull looked dead in the water and it is testimony to Warren and John that they've put together a decent run in recent weeks and are now one of the form teams in our division. Now they're in a position where they can look upwards without too many nervous glances over their shoulder and because of this, they shouldn't be taken lightly.

I'd also like to thank our supporters once again for making yet another long trip to Exeter City on Saturday. It makes a great difference to know that so many people believe in what we're trying to do as a football club and it certainly gives the players a big lift. It's an expensive pastime but I cannot stress how much we appreciate your support at such a crucial time.

Following on from my notes in the Southend programme, we have now signed midfielder Sam McMahon from Leicester City for the rest of the season. We've had a good look at him in a couple of reserve games and we feel he's done enough to warrant a longer look, especially with a view to next season.

Sam's move also gives us a bit more depth in the midfield department and with Alex Russell also coming back from injury, they will be needed in the light of our forthcoming suspensions. As I've mentioned before, it is vital that we can choose from a big squad at this stage of the campaign.

Finally, I hope you'll continue to create a fabulous Abbey atmosphere tonight and here's to another three points.