Southend manager Steve Tilson was delighted to mark his sixth anniversary in charge at Roots Hall with a 2-1 win against high-flying MK Dons.
Blues' leading scorer Lee Barnard scored from the penalty spot for his 14th goal of the season deep into stoppage time.
Referee Darren Deadman, who booked eight players, awarded the spot-kick after the Shrimpers striker had his shirt pulled.
"It was a great time to score and a great way to celebrate my sixth year as manager," said Tilson, 43, who is the fifth longest-serving league manager.
"It was a great performance from us. The lads showed commitment in abundance and for that alone they deserved the points. They played against a very good side who have some good players and will be there at the end of the season."
The Shrimpers recently avoided going into administration, and Tilson added: "Our aim is to get to 52 points as soon as possible and it was a big lift for the club to get three points with everything that has gone on recently."
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