STEVE Tilson saw his side lose 2-0 at Colchester United last night and then insisted the Shrimpers need 19 more points to avoid relegation.

A goal in each half from the U’s Anthony Wordsworth condemned Southend United to another defeat at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

And Tilson believes Blues must now dig deep to avoid relegation.

“I think we need six more wins and a draw to stay up,” said Tilson, whose side are just two points above the bottom four.

“We’re definitely in a relegation fight though and I think we have been for two or three weeks.

“It’s not been an easy season as we have a small squad and have been lacking continuity but the players have showed again that they have enough fight for the battle ahead.”

Blues fought hard against their local rivals but returned home empty-handed despite Tilson insisting there was nothing to chose between the teams in an Essex derby which was screened live on Sky Sports.

“I’m pleased with our performance just not the result,” said the Seasiders chief.

“The chances were there for us with Francis Laurent, Scott Spencer and Matt Paterson all having good opportunities but we need to put them away and cut out the sloppiness at the other end too.”

FULL STORY IN TUESDAY'S ECHO