SOUTHEND United’s winless streak was extended to seven matches following an uneventful 0-0 draw at York City this afternoon.

In a game of few goalscoring opportunities at either end, Blues defended well to keep a clean sheet.

But they were unable to make a breakthrough at the other end of the pitch.

The Shrimpers, who remain seventh in the League Two standings, started with new loan signing Cian Bolger at the heart of the defence but, with 11 minutes on the clock, the centre-back suffered a nasty cut just below his right eye.

That sidelined the defender for five minutes and, during that time, York started to get on top with Ryan Bowman shooting straight at Southend goalkeeper Daniel Bentley from the edge of the penalty area.

Will Hayhurst then also had a well struck volley tipped around the right post by Bentley before Blues hit back with Kevan Hurst sending a well struck left footed shot flashing across the face of goal.

But the Shrimpers then came even closer to taking the lead just before the break when Bolger’s long ball forward was headed over his own goalkeeper and just inches wide of the right post by right-back Lanre Oyebanjo.

After the interval, Blues boss Phil Brown opted to make a change with 56 minutes on the clock as Jack Payne came on to replace Michael Timlin.

Payne soon had a low 25 yard shot smothered by York goalkeeper Nick Pope before York also came close to scoring when Michael Coulson’s goalbound effort was blocked by Adam Thompson.

Immediately after that opportunity, Bolger limped off to be replaced by Mark Phillips but neither side were able to make a late breakthrough as the game ended goalless.