The Shrimpers remained fifth in the League Two table as visitors Scunthorpe went top following this draw at a packed Roots Hall.
The Iron will be happy to have left with a point after goalkeeper Paul Musslewhite pulled off a great double save to deny Mark Bentley in the latter stages.
And Scunthorpe skipper Andy Crosby had a let-off when he appeared to handle Kevin Maher's long-ball forward in the penalty area.
But referee Paul Taylor decided the infringement warranted a card for Crosby and a free kick for Southend.
Blues had a few close shaves too and had goalkeeper Darryl Flahavan to thank for keeping the scores level earlier on.
The stopper - making his 200th appearance for the Shrimpers - produced fine saves to deny Jon Walters and Ian Barraclough.
Full match report, pictures and reaction in Monday's Echo.
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