SOUTHEND crashed out of the FA Cup at the second round stage following a 2-1 defeat at the hands of League One rivals MK Dons.
Izale McLeod put the Northamptonshire visitors ahead on 16 minutes from the penalty spot after being brought down by Spencer Prior.
But the Shrimpers got back on terms after 57 minutes when Freddy Eastwood's 25-yard shot bounced in front of Dons keeper Matt Baker, hit his leg and went into the roof of the net.
The Blues then saw Mark Gower hit the post before Dons substitute Gary Smith came off the bench on 69 minutes and scored the winner 60 seconds later.
Former MK Dons striker Wayne Gray nearly handed the Shrimpers a replay a minute from time, but fit-again Dons skipper Ben Chorley cleared off his line.
Full match report, reaction and photos in Monday's Echo.
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