BRANDON Goodship believes his first goal for Southend United will provide him with a timely confidence boost.

The 24-year-old, who joined Blues from Weymouth last month, was on target in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Dagenham & Redbridge.

And the striker is keen to add to his tally heading into the League One season.

“As a forward you want to score goals so as soon as the first one comes it gives you confidence going into the next game and into the new season too,” said Goodship.

“Now I’ve got the first one I’ll be looking to add to it in the next two games we have coming up if I’m given the chance to.”

Goodship rounded Dagenham goalkeeper Elliot Justham to hit the back of the net at Victoria Road.

And he was set up by Shrimpers skipper Sam Mantom, who stuck to his word from the warm-up.

“Sam said before the game to get myself in good positions because he would find me and to be fair he did,” said Goodship.

“He played a great ball and I took it round the keeper to score.

“I was happy with how it went and it’s another pre-season game in the bank for us all.

“For me personally it was another 45 minutes and a goal so I’m pleased.”

And Goodship is already enjoying his new surroundings.

“I’m enjoying every minute of it,” said the striker.

“We had the camp in Dorset which was great and helped me integrate with the group even more.

“It’s a really good group and everyone has been really welcoming.

“It’s been tough but I’m enjoying it and feel like I’m doing well with the full-time training again.”

Blues - who complete pre-season by facing both Millwall and Gillingham this week - also looked at a couple of new trialists in Saturday’s friendly.

Peterborough United winger Isaac Buckley-Ricketts played the full 90 minutes on the right flank while midfielder Ahmed Mohamed, who was most recently with Hertford Town, came on during the second half.

Former Watford defender Joy Mukena, who is on trial with the Shrimpers’ under-23 side, also played the second half at the heart of the back four while Andre Blackman again came on at left-back.