Bargain buy Ben Abbey was all smiles after blasting two goals to inspire Southend United to a 3-2 win over Third Division leaders Chesterfield at Roots Hall on Saturday.

The Shrimpers hitman was joined on the scoresheet by winger Scott Forbes as Blues pushed themselves back into the promotion race and seventh spot, despite visiting striker Luke Beckett grabbing a brace.

Abbey arrived at Roots Hall on a free transfer from Second Division strugglers Oxford United last October. The 22-year-old failed to make the grade at the Manor Ground, but has certainly found his feet at Southend, where he has now scored six goals in just eight starts.

"I can't believe how well things have gone for me at Southend - I really have to pinch myself to believe it is all happening," said Abbey. "It was great to get another two goals and it is always extra special when you score against the top team in the division.

"And I feel this was my best game for Southend so far. I've been putting in a lot of fitness work, which is paying off because I felt a lot stronger against Chesterfield.

"But I still feel that I've got a lot to prove at this level and I'll be keeping my feet on the ground and just searching for more goals for Southend."

And Blues boss David Webb described his side's display as their best at Roots Hall since he returned to he club.

"When you look at the quality of the opposition this was definitely the best display we have produced since I came back to Southend," he said.

"The players were committed straight from the kick off and even though we fell behind early on they never let it knock them back.

"It was also nice to score three times for a change and Ben Abbey has certainly found his eye for goal - he must be worth at least £2 million now!"

Webb also praised the Southend supporters, who he said played a key role in helping his side gain an important victory, which ended a three match losing streak in the League.

"The fans were tremendous," added Webb. "They saw that the players wanted to have a go against Chesterfield and they got right behind the team for 90 minutes.

"The supporters made a lot of noise and it was a great atmosphere which was rewarded by a good result."

Blues have been drawn at home against Second Division Cambridge United in the LDV Vans Trophy Second Round.

The match is due to be played at Roots Hall on Tuesday, January 9.

Hitman hero - Ben Abbey fired two goals to help Blues to a 3-1 win over table toppers Chesterfield at Roots Hall.

Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

By Bernie Friend

Reporter's e-mail: bernie.friend@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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