Southend United's caretaker chief Steve Tilson admitted the Shrimpers had handed themselves a mountain to climb during Saturday's 2-0 defeat against Doncaster Rovers at Roots Hall.
The struggling Seasiders conceded two goals in the opening seven minutes as they crashed to their ninth league home defeat of the season.
Frustration - striker Tes Bramble couldn't find a goal for struggling Southend Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL
"We gave ourselves an uphill struggle right from the start," said Tilson.
"We gave away two early goals and they were sloppy goals too. The first one was a free header from a corner and for the second we got punished for switching off at a quick free kick.
"At that stage it was looking like it we could lose three or four-nil, but we worked our socks off and dug in."
And the 37-year-old was pleased with his side's improved second half showing - despite the Blues' frustrating failure in front of goal.
"Darryl Flahavan didn't have a save to make after half time," said the former Southend midfielder.
"We huffed and puffed but, although we dominated the game at times, we're not putting our chances away at the moment."
More on Southend United FC
What are your views on Southend? Have your say on our Views on the Blues bulletin board.
Published Monday January 19, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article