SPIREITES: Wilson thrilled with crucial win at Southend

Lee Novak’s 89th minute winner was enough to seal the win against the promotion-chasing Shrimpers, a result that puts the Spireites six points clear of the relegation zone and up to 17th in the table.

And Wilson felt his side deserved the three points.

He said: “I think we were worthy winners. We showed determination and adventure from the start and didn’t come here to just soak pressure up.

“There was lots of pace in the team as well as plenty of attack-minded players and we showed our intentions throughout.

“So I’m delighted with it as we defended well at times too. In fact apart from when we got caught cold at the start and Southend hit the post in the first couple of minutes, I don’t think Tommy Lee has had a significant save to make.”

Wilson felt the home fans’ anxiety as the game went on was largely down to his own team’s performance.

He added: “Sometimes when you’re at the top and things get a bit nervy, that transmits to the players, but from our point of view we created that nervousness too by playing so well. We passed the ball well, controlled possession and deserved the late winner.”

Novak’s goal continued the striker’s fine run of recent form and Wilson was in little doubt the ball would hit the net when the chance came his way.

He added: “He’s in great form and when he went through I knew he’d score. A couple of months ago that might not have gone in but he’s confident at the moment.

“The trio in midfield were excellent and the full backs joined in really well too so it was a great team performance.”

Wilson will now prepare his team for the visit of another promotion chasing side in the shape of Walsall next weekend, hoping to see some of the club’s away form replicated at the Proact Stadium.

He said: “Obviously for the fans it would be great if we were getting more points at home but the most important thing is that we stay up and if we end up doing it by picking up more points on the road then so be it.

“The fans were great today as it’s a long trip and they got the win their loyalty deserves so I’m glad we can send them home with smiles on their faces.”