SOUTHEND United ladies side have ‘exceeded expectations’ to secure a second place finish this season.

The Shrimpers finished runners up to Watford’s development side in their first ever campaign in Division One South of the Eastern Region Women’s Football League.

And Blues boss Lewis Dodds is pleased with the progress being made.

“If you spoke to the team at the start of the season I think they would have been happy with mid-table,” said Dodds.

“It’s a huge achievement to have finished second, especially with this being our first season in this league.

“We can definitely improve and next season we’ll go for promotion.

“That’s the aim.”

The Shrimpers ladies team are a big part of the consortium’s plans for the future of the club.

And Dodds is delighted Justin Rees has already shown a big interest in the team.

“Just having Justin come down and watch the games, talk to the girls and stay after for a chat has been really positive,” said Dodds.

“From the team’s point of view it would boost us a lot to be a bit more part of the club.

“Ever since Justin has been around there’s been a lot more coverage on us and we’ve attracted a lot more people too.

“Our crowds have been bigger and hopefully that helps in the long run.

“Maybe we might be able to get a match at Roots Hall as well because that would be great.”

Those sentiments were echoed by Blues first team coach April Smith.

And Smith has also been encouraged by how the Shrimpers have been able to build on last season’s promotion.

“It’s been a great season,” said Smith.

“We came into the league not knowing what to expect to be honest.

“We were confident knowing we could perform to a good standard but the girls have exceeded my expectations.

“Everyone has worked really hard this season so I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved.”

But Smith is certain there is still a lot more to come.

“I don’t think we’ve shown our full potential this year,” said Smith.

“With better facilities and more sponsors I’m really excited where this team can go.

“I’d love us to be bigger and better than this year but there’s a lot of hard work to still do.”

However, Smith is determined to help the Shrimpers secure more success.

“We want to things right and we want to be the best team in this area if not Essex,” said Smith.

“But it’s about getting things right and doing things properly.”