Under-pressure Carlisle boss Greg Abbott got the reaction he needed from his players as they battled for a 2-1 victory - their first in eight league games - over Southend.

Abbott admitted it was a triumph for "bravery, guts and honesty" after the game had appeared to be petering out into a tame draw until substitute Joe Anyinsah's 80th-minute strike.

Vincent Pericard had made an instant impact for the Cumbrians on his home debut, scoring an early goal and providing the assist for Anyinsah.

The home side should have been well ahead before the break but were rocked back in the 43rd minute when an error by goalkeeper Lenny Pidgeley, who could only flap at Simon Francis' long throw, allowed Francis Laurent to pounce and fire home from eight yards.

The Cumbrians manager said: "Hopefully this win gives us the confidence and energy to go forward. It's a big win for us.

"I've been a pain in the backside for my family and they deserve a massive pat on the back for putting up with me. That's probably what's called earning your money this week. I feel better for the staff, players and people who support me. We are nowhere near where we want to be but it's a win and it's something we can start to try and build on."