OXFORD United manager Michael Appleton heaped praise on Southend United after they fought back to shock his side at the Kassam Stadium.

Appleton looked a dejected figure at the final whistle after his side threw away a 2-1 lead to lose 3-2 against Blues who had Gary Deegan sent off in the first half.

But Appleton was impressed by the Shrimpers’ character.

“We're obviously very disappointed but I also think you have to give credit to Southend,” said Appleton.

“We tried to be positive and stay on the front foot but we got killed by that early goal at the start of the second half.

“That brought anxiety back in to our play and we got punished for poor defending.

“Johnny Mullins’ chance right at the end sums it all up for us at the moment.

“But we have to be bigger, stronger and more competitive in both boxes from now on.”