Southend United began their 2026 National League campaign with a 3-1 victory over Altrincham on Saturday, marking a positive start for new manager Kieron Dyer. Despite an early setback, the Shrimpers rallied to secure the three points at Moss Lane.

Altrincham took the lead in the eighth minute when Tom Crawford capitalised on a rebound from a saved shot by Southend’s Aidan Barlow, slotting the ball home from close range. The home side set up in a midfield diamond and controlled much of the early phase, maintaining pressure on the visitors.

Southend responded before halftime with an equaliser from Leon Parillon in the 37th minute. The winger found space on the left flank, cut inside, and struck a low shot into the near post to level the score.

The second half saw a shift in momentum in favor of Southend. In the 52nd minute, an error by Altrincham goalkeeper Owen Evans proved costly. Evans hesitated on the ball and delivered an ill-advised pass to Harry Cardwell, who rather than shooting, unselfishly laid the ball off to captain Oli Coker for an open-net finish, putting the visitors ahead.

Altrincham manager Neil Gibson acknowledged the risk inherent in their style of play, saying his team’s approach to building from the back can lead to mistakes. “Owen is one of the best keepers with the ball at his feet so my message to him is to not be affected by that and carry on,” Gibson said after the match.

Southend maintained their dominance after taking the lead, combining swift passing and sustained pressure. This intensity eventually forced a turning point when Robins right-back Matty Kosylo received two yellow cards within minutes, resulting in a sending off.

With the numerical advantage and time running down, Southend secured the victory with a third goal in the 85th minute. Cardwell was expertly set up and converted with a precise finish from the right side of the penalty area.

Reflecting on the win, Dyer described it as a significant milestone in his managerial career. “It’s massive for me personally, it’s a relief in a way to get that first win,” he said. “The aim this season is to get promoted and I like that pressure, but it’s great to have those three points.”

The result offers Southend a strong platform as they begin their promotion push, while Altrincham will look to regroup following their disappointing home defeat.