Shrimpers hero Shaun Goater is joining in the Southend mutual love-fest, now thanking the fans for helping his side?s dramatic rise up the table.

Goater, who is fast becoming an object of worship at Roots Hall as he was for City at Maine Road, was quick to come out and thank the Southend fans for boosting Steve Tilson?s men to a 3-1 victory over Tranmere Rovers last weekend and a top-three spot in League One.

?I?m not surprised that we are in third because we?re starting to build a bit of a fortress at home,? he told the Southend website.

?Whether the fans are aware or not they helped us through the match. Tranmere were getting on top and they raised their voices which brought another five percent into our game and ultimately secured the win.

?If we can continue to be positive at home and pick up points on our travels then the top of the table should be a certainty.?

Goater scored two on Saturday, his fourth and fifth of the season, as he continued his superb start to life as a Shrimper after being rescued from the Reading bench and possible retirement.

Meanwhile Damon Ming, on trial with Goater?s side, scored one and made another in a 6-3 win for the second-string over Grays Athletic yesterday.

The winger, who has tried out with a number of clubs in the UK in the past year, also scored on his debut for the reserves.