NATHAN Ralph feels Southend United’s win against AFC Wimbledon could be big for the Shrimpers’ season.

Ralph bagged his first Blues goal in Wednesday night’s 3-1 victory over the Dons in the Leasing.com Trophy.

And the left-back is hoping the triumph can kick-start the Shrimpers’ season.

“The only way to build up good morale is to keep winning games so Wednesday was massive, regardless of the competition,” said Ralph.

“It was big for us and big for the club because the players care and it does affect you when you keep losing games so it was an important win.

“But we just need to kick on from this now.”

Blues, who sit second from bottom in League One, had gone 10 games without a win before beating Wimbledon at Roots Hall.

And Ralph was pleased to set the Shrimpers on their way with a rare right footed volley which he fired home from 20 yards.

“I’ve not scored many goals like that in my career, especially with my right foot,” said the left-back.

“It did me a favour that it came out quickly to me so I just hit it.

“If I had more time to think about it I think I probably would have shanked it!

“But I was happy it went in and it got us off to a good start.”

Ethan Hamilton and Tom Hopper then also worked their way onto the scoresheet for the Shrimpers.

And Ralph was pleased to bounce back from Sunday’s embarrassing FA Cup exit at the hands of non-league Dover Athletic.

“Sunday was a massive disappointment, we all know that,” said Ralph.

“Everyone obviously cares and we knew Wednesday was a big game.

“We showed that we felt that but we have to continue it now.

“It’s a shame we don’t have a game for a little while because it would be good to try and get some momentum going.

“But we will keep working hard and it gives us more time to focus on the way the manager wants us to play.”

Blues are now not back in action until they host Oxford United at Roots Hall a week tomorrow and Ralph is keen to see another positive performance.

“We had 600 or so passes against Wimbledon and that’s the way we play best,” said Ralph, who joined the Shrimpers in the summer.

“We have to keep that going in order to create chances and win games.

“We have to pick the right times to go forward too.”