GARY Waddock was pleased to start his spell as Southend United’s caretaker manager with an entertaining 3-3 draw against Fleetwood Town at Roots Hall.

The Shrimpers had been beaten in all six of their League One outings before Kevin Bond departed last week.

And Waddock was happy to help Southend secure their first point of the season, thanks to Stephen Humphrys’ late equaliser.

“It’s a start and we’ve waited a long time to get ourselves on the board,” said Waddock.

“It was a very difficult game but our lads stuck at it and got their rewards at the end.

“The players showed a great attitude and applied themselves correctly.

“They didn’t drop their heads and they kept going so I’m delighted for everyone.

“This is the first brick but we have to build something and we have to keep doing better.”

Blues twice came back from behind to pick up a point.

But Waddock remains unsure how long he will remain in charge for.

“I’ve been asked by the chairman to prepare the team but as for Tuesday, who knows?,” said the former Wycombe boss.

“I don’t know if there will be appointment but I’ll keep doing my best until I’m told otherwise.”