The U’s made it back-to-back wins for the first time this season on Saturday, after beating Mansfield Town 2-0 at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.
Sean Murray scored his second goal in as many games, whilst a further goal from Mikael Mandron shortly after completed the scoring in a comprehensive victory.
Both teams had chances in the opening exchanges, with Brandon Hanlan testing Conrad Logan in the Mansfield goal and Will Atkinson blazing over at the other end for the visitors.
It was the U’s who broke the deadlock just before the half an hour mark. Kyel Reid rolled a free kick to Sean Murray who curled the ball into the bottom corner with the aid of a slight deflection, giving Logan no chance.
Mandron scored just five minutes later to double the U’s lead and make it 2-0. The impressive Doug Loft switched the ball sixty yards to Wright, who was held up by Stags' fullback Paul Anderson.
The danger wasn't over though, Murray was there to pick up the loose ball and floated in a perfect cross for Mandron to power home from six yards.
Mansfield started the second half well and had an excellent chance to shorten the lead through Danny Rose, who really should have scored but instead headed over from close range.
Substitute Brandon Comley was on the receiving end of a poor tackle from former Southend man Will Atkinson, who went into the ref’s book for his actions.
As the game entered the final 15 minutes it became scrappy as the U’s looked to slow the play down wherever possible. Mandron was booked for obstruction whilst Murray had another good effort go just wide of the post.
Mansfield had the final chance of the game, with substitute Lee Angol dispossessing Frankie Kent but failing to connect with his shot properly, which ended up dribbling into Sam Walker’s grateful arms.
The 2-0 victory means the U’s record back to back wins and clean sheets for the first time this season, whilst making it an impressive seven points from a possible nine in their last three games.
John McGreal and his squad will look to continue this rich run of form at home when they face Carlisle in a week’s time.