SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown was left disappointed by his side’s 1-1 draw at Accrington Stanley yesterday.

Luke Prosser cancelled out a Mark Phillips own goal to secure a share of the spoils for the Shrimpers.

But Brown felt the performance was below par.

“I’m disappointed because the players just didn’t seem to be at the races, especially in the first-half,” said Brown.

“There were some harsh words said at half-time and we actually started the second half well.

“We had a great chance through Michael Timlin but I think he thought he was offside and the goalkeeper made a great save.

“He pulled off a couple more after that and was clearly out to impress because he was only recalled from a loan recently.

“We did respond after going a goal behind but I don’t want a response, I want it from the first whistle.

“At the end of the season it may prove to be important. If you can’t win a game you don’t want to lose it but we’re capable of doing much better than this.”

The draw keeps the Shrimpers sixth in the League Two table at the half way point of the season.

And the run of form which saw Blues rise up in to that position seemed enough to slightly raise Brown’s spirits.

“When you look at the form guide in November and December you have to be pleased but the aim is promotion and we want to win every game,” said Brown.

“We’re in a good position but we need to keep it going now.

“It’s good that others are now starting to chip in with goals as well, as was the case with Luke Prosser here.

“I’ve said many times this season that Pross needs to remember he’s a number six and he’s been doing that.

“It was a good header and it’s his best tally of his career in a season so hopefully they can keep coming for him now.”

Blues are now back in action when they host Portsmouth at Roots Hall on New Year’s Day, kick off 3pm.