SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown felt Gillingham striker Jay Emmanuel-Thomas was the difference between the two teams at Roots Hall last night.

The on loan Queens Park Rangers forward bagged a brace after coming off the bench to secure the Gills a second 3-1 victory against Blues in four days.

But Brown believes the speedy striker was the main reason for the double defeat.

“Quite simply, Gillingham were a better side than us when one man came off the bench,” said Brown.

“He started the game on Saturday and he’s been the difference between the teams in both games.

“In fact if they keep Jay Emmanuel Thomas fit and on the field of play then Gillingham are title contenders for me this season.

“The lad is by far a better player than this level and they showed a strength in depth that we don’t have.

“It’s the lack of the quality and depth of squad which was the difference tonight and it will be for the rest of August until we bring players in.”

And Brown was also frustrated by how his side performed in both penalty areas.

“It’s been the same old story for us,” said Brown.

“In front of goal we weren’t ruthless enough and defensively we weren’t ruthless enough either.”