SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell was left ruing his side’s slow start following tonight’s 2-0 defeat at Luton Town.

Elliot Lee fired the Hatters in front after 90 seconds before Danny Hylton also netted from the penalty spot.

And Powell felt the early goal proved key for the Hatters.

“You can’t afford to start a game like that and expect to get a result, “said the Blues boss.

“I know there’s a long way to go after that but the game-plan goes out the window after the second minute.

“We can’t do that and early goals change games completely.

“We responded with our usual style of play but we didn’t have that drive to get the ball in the box and test the keeper in fact we didn’t test him at all.

“We had some half chances but none were on target and that’s disappointing.

“It was one of those nights where it just hasn’t gone for us.”

The Shrimpers – who failed to register a single shot on target at Kenilworth Road – conceded a second goal when Hylton netted from the spot.

And Powell admitted he did not have the best view of the penalty decision which was given when Elvis Bwomono challenged Lee in the box.

“I’m a long way away and the referee is closer,” said Powell.

“Young Elvis is a good player and he played well but you have to stay on your feet and be 100 per cent sure if you go to ground.

“You’re at risk of going away at penalty but you learn from it but we’ll go again and so will Elvis.”