Steve Tilson admitted he would have been happy to take home a point against MK Dons, but he felt the team's commitment meant that getting all three with virtually the last kick of the game was no more than they deserved.
Having lost the last two games, Tilson was looking for the needed response as he celebrated six years in charge of the club and he got just that, with Southend United coming from a goal behind to grab the victory in injury time.
Tilson was particularly pleased with the character of the side and the way they responded to going a goal behind so early on, reserving a special mention for captain Adam Barrett.
"It was a great time to score at the end and a fantastic win," Steve told Blues Player.
"We beat Gillingham in the last minute in our last game at Roots Hall and there was a lot of pressure on Barney with the penalty, but it was brilliant.
"I don't know if it was a penalty, as it was difficult to see from where I was, but Barney has had his shirt pulled and that is what the referee has given it for.
"For our effort and desire, I thought we deserved the win.
"Having lost our last two games, it was important we made a good start and I thought we did that.
"Despite that, we have still gone a goal down, but our heads didn't go; we dug in and played some good stuff at times.
"We were up against a very good side and if you look at their squad, they have some excellent players.
"If I'm being honest, if we had got a point, with what's gone on, I would have been pleased, but to get three is a big lift for everyone.
"Hopefully, the crowd will go home having enjoyed the match.
"Although I can't believe that there were as many bookings as there were, as it wasn't that type of game. I thought it was a good game of football."
He added: "Right now, it is tough for a lot of clubs, but the Chairman is trying as much as he can to get this new stadium underway in a time where there is a recession.
"While I have got a bunch of lads who will dig in, in tough times, I can't ask anymore.
"Adam Barrett typifies what we are all about. As a captain, he gives everything; he is a leader and gets everyone working for me."
