McAnuff’s delight at opening O’s account against Scunthorpe United

McAnuff’s strike proved to be the winner, just two minutes after the hosts had cancelled out Scott Cuthbert’s third-minute header through Matt Sparrow.

Dean Cox’s delivery was headed goalwards by former Iron striker Dagnall, and McAnuff was there to bundle it over the line.

And though it won’t go down as one of the better goals he has scored, the 32-year-old is delighted to get off the mark despite leaving team-mate Dagnall disappointed.

“From a goal point of view it’s nice to get off the mark,” said McAnuff.

“I think Dags (Chris Dagnall) is a bit upset with me, thinking I could have shielded it in.

“But in terms of timing it was fantastic to hit back straight away. It was looping up for ages and obviously I tried to get something on the end of it and it was nice to see it nestle in the back of the net.”

It’s been a tough week at the O’s with all the speculation surrounding Russell Slade’s future.

However, McAnuff has been pleased with the reaction from the side during the difficult times at Brisbane Road.

“After this week the win is the most important thing,” he added. “It’s been two tough games away from home and to take four points back is a solid week

“We’ve just tried to keep our minds on the game. The gaffer has been great in trying to shield us as much as he can and it has never been about him.

“All our focus has been out on the pitch once we are out there.”

Cuthbert gave the O’s the best possible start after three minutes when he headed home Cox’s corner, and McAnuff was glad a new set piece routine worked wonders.

“It was a great header, we have actually changed a couple of little bits in terms of set pieces and it is always great when things come off,” he remarked.

“It was a superb delivery from Coxy and great header from Scotty to get on the end of it.

“We were pretty close the other day as to where we want to be and it’s just nice that one has come off.”