SOUTHEND United returned to action with a 3-0 defeat at table-topping Chesterfield this afternoon.

The Shrimpers went a fortnight without a fixture after suffering three postponements in succession.

And Blues were unable to upset the runaway leaders on their resumption as the table-topping Spireites recorded a club record 18th home win in a row.

Southend saw more of the ball in the first half and Gus Scott-Morriss volleyed an early right wing cross from Jack Bridge wide of the right post in acrobatic fashion.

But Chesterfield immediately replied and opened the scoring in stunning style with just four minutes on the clock as James Berry slammed a superb 25 yard shot high into the top right hand of the goal via the underside of the crossbar.

The Shrimpers pushed for an immediate equaliser and came close when Marcus Dackers beat Spireites goalkeeper Harry Tyrer to Scott-Morriss’ right-wing cross, only for the striker to see his header cleared off the line by Tyrone Williams.

With the lively start continuing, Berry then saw a goalbound effort blocked by Nathan Ralph following a fine free-flowing move before Dackers sent a tame effort straight at Tyrer at the other end of the pitch.

The second half started slowly in terms of goalscoring opportunities and Blues boss Kevin Maher made a double change in the 67th minute with Oli Coker replacing Wes Fonguck and Danny Waldron coming on for his debut in place of Harry Cardwell.

Chesterfield responded with a change of their own as Joe Quigley came on for Will Grigg in the 72nd minute and made an instant impression, scoring with his first touch.

The Spireites striker reacted sharply after Armando Dobra put the ball back into the box, after Andeng Ndi had denied Liam Mandeville, and swept the ball home from close range.

Chesterfield remained on top and made it 3-0 in the 81st minute, with Dobra on target.

The substitute moved from the left hand side of the box to the right before beating Andeng Ndi with a powerful right footed shot to seal another win for the Spireites.

Blues responded with defender Adam Crowther coming on for his debut in place of Jack Bridge but the hosts comfortably saw out the closing stages to continue their surge for the National League title.