Southend United have failed in their appeal to have Mark Bentley's red card at Colchester overturned.

The midfielder will now serve a three-match suspension, starting with this Friday's home clash against Boston, much to the disappointment of Blues boss Steve Tilson.

"I would say Mark has been our best player this season," said the 38-year-old.

"It's going to be a massive blow and it's disappointing that they decided to enforce the ban, but these things are always difficult to get changed and that's how it's proved again."