Kyle Taylor netted a stunning goal inside 25 seconds to set Southend United in their way to a second straight win.
The Cherries loanee has now appeared ten times for the Shrimpers in League Two this season, with his early long-range volley against Grimsby Town his first Football League goal.
The Mariners levelled on the stroke of half time, but there was to be no stopping Taylor's side in front of 2,000 fans at Roots Hall, with Tom Clifford and veteran Greg Halford - signed just hours before kick-off - settling the game in United's favour.
Now three games unbeaten, winning the last two, Mark Molesley's side have breathed life into their season and are just a point below safety in the table.
Walsall secured a third straight league win, winning 3-2 away to the Cherries' upcoming FA Cup opponents Oldham Athletic, with Jake Scrimshaw brought on in the 83rd minute.
There was also League Two success for Tyler Cordner and Scunthorpe United, who beat Barrow 2-1 at Glanford Park. Cordner appeared as a substitute in stoppage time of the win.
However, the evening was more painful for Corey Jordan, who played 90 minutes for Weymouth in the National League match against Wrexham.
The Terras led 2-0 going into the final 20 minutes at the Bob Lucas Stadium, but were the victims of a comeback, with the Welsh side eventually winning 3-2 and leaving Brian Stock's side second bottom in the standings.
