The Shrimpers' home campaign got off to a disappointing start as the Cumbrians returned north with all three points.
Will McDonagh came off the bench in the 65th minute and made an impact minutes later when he scored from the far post to send the small contingent of Carlisle fans into ecstasy.
But Blues should have finished the match with three points to go with the one they picked up after their gutsy draw against Hull City on Saturday.
Mark Rawle, Neil Jenkins and Damon Searle missed good chances in a match that threatened to boil over on two occasions.
Rob Newman will now hope his team can get their first win of the season when they host Shrewsbury Town on Saturday.
The Shrews lost 2-1 away to York tonight but still sit in 10th spot in the table. Southend are languishing in 21st place.
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See today's Evening Echo for full match report, reaction and photographs.
Published Wednesday August 14, 2002
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