SOUTHEND United midfielder Ryan Leonard is eager for the Shrimpers to react strongly to Saturday’s 4-2 defeat against Sheffield United.

Leonard was bitterly disappointed to be beaten by the League One leaders at Roots Hall.

But he is now hoping for an immediate return to winning ways against Rochdale this weekend.

“It’s very disappointing to lose but it’s all about the reaction now and making sure we go again,” said Leonard.

“It’s one defeat in 14 games and it’s obviously not the end of the world but we have to stay positive and go on another run now.

“I personally think any team will do well to finish above Sheffield United in the league this season but we have to dust ourselves down and go again now.

“We want to get another good run going and Saturday is going to be another difficult and important game against a Rochdale team who are also doing well so we have to prepare for it well and make sure we get over this disappointment.”

Blues remain seventh in the League One table.

But Leonard felt it was Jack O’Connell’s goal just before the break which ultimately led to the Blades recording their first win at Roots Hall since 1995.

“I think the goal just before half-time killed us a little bit,” said Leonard.

“We were all over the place to start with but got back into it when Simon Cox scored and were the better team for a little bit.

“But they went back in front and in the second half we were miles off it.

“At 4-1 down we didn’t want it to get embarrassing and you’re playing for pride at that stage.

“Glash (Jermaine McGlashan) got a good finish and we kept fighting but it wasn’t our day.”