SOUTHEND Saxons’ director of rugby Chris Green was left ruing his side’s inability to finish off their chances following a 33-11 defeat at Worthing Raiders on Saturday.

Saxons saw plenty of the ball against their fourth placed hosts.

But there were unable to turn their pressure into points, much to the disappointment of Green.

“I think Worthing were in our half twice in the whole of the second half and it’s frustrating to have lost like that,” said Green.

“Worthing are a very good side and I’m actually encouraged by the fact we were able to create so many chances against them.

“That’s certainly the main positive to come out of the game but we need to be more clinical and make the most of these opportunities.

“I felt the final score-line was a little bit harsh but they took their chances and we didn’t, that was the main difference.”

But Green is confident Southend have the ability to improve in the final third, especially with the fit again centre Sonny Gay back in contention.

Gay had been out since November 13 with shoulder injuries.

And Green is thrilled to have him available again.

“Sonny will be a huge asset for us and he’s a massive player for us,” said Green.

“We need to get his confidence up again but once that happens I’m sure he will help to improve our attack.”

Southend started well at the weekend and went in front inside the first minute of the match when winger Mark Billings touched down.

But Worthing hit back with tries from Ben Dudley and Matt McLean to lead 14-5.

A penalty from Saxons’ fly-half Brad Burr cut the hosts’ advantage before Worthing replied with scrum Calum Waters bursting through.

Another Burr penalty cut the home-side’s lead to 10 points but winger Billy Driver and captain Kris Chesney were soon yellow carded to leave Southend with just 13 men.

Worthing took full advantage and tries from McLean and Alex Nielsen secured their victory to leave Saxons 13th in the National Two South standings.

Southend Saxons: Meads, Driver, Nash, Vaughan, Billings, Burr, Taylor, Strachan, Bloomberg, Bevans-Royston, Chesney, Fombo, Ferrier, Kellard, Hudson Replacements: Gay, Fardell, Guess, Shields & Beddings