SOUTHEND United manager Mark Molesley was a frustrated figure after seeing his side waste a 'big opportunity' against Mansfield Town at Roots Hall.

Blues could have moved out of the relegation zone with a win and off the bottom with a draw.

But the Shrimpers slumped to a 1-0 defeat, much to the annoyance of Molesley. 

"It was a tough battle and we’re really disappointed because it’s a big opportunity missed for us to climb out," said Molesley.

"We momentarily switched off for their goal too.

"We had a lapse of concentration and we’ve been punished for it.

"It’s bitterly disappointing but it’s only ourselves who can get ourselves out of this and we can’t behind excuses."

And Molesley is also keen for Blues to improve going forward.

"We need to show more guile in the attacking third," said Molesley.

"We haven’t given up too many clear cut chances but we haven’t created too many ourselves although we had a great one at the end with Sim’s (Akinola) header and a penalty shout too.