Southend United striker Freddy Eastwood secured the Shrimpers a 1-0 victory over Shrewsbury Town at snow-swept Roots Hall last night and then admitted he was worried the close-fought clash would be cancelled.

The highly-rated hot-shot nodded home his 14th goal of the season just 12 minutes from time but was forced to endure a worrying wait as referee Joe Ross temporarily called proceedings to a halt in the tricky conditions.

"The ref went over to the touchline and I thought he was going to take us all off," said the Basildon-based forward.

"The snow was really coming down and he was after an orange ball apparently.

"We didn't have one but thankfully the game carried on so we were able to get another good win."

And the talented 21-year-old added he was delighted to be back on the score-sheet after suffering a recent dip in form, which coincided with a frustrating spell on the subsitutes bench.

"It was great to get a goal again and it will do my confidence the world of good," he said.

"I hadn't been doing so well lately, I hadn't been in the team and I'd been affected by that.

"But hopefully now I can get on another run and score again against Bury on Saturday."

Eastwood's close range effort also ensured the Essex outfit moved up to fifth in the League Two standings, with only goal difference separating Steve Tilson's side from an automatic promotion place, where the former Grays Athletic goal-getter is now confident of finishing.