SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell felt players failed to take their chance in tonight’s Checkatrade Trophy defeat at Colchester United.

Blues were beaten 2-0 by their Essex rivals.

And Powell – who made nine changes to his starting line-up – felt those coming into the team did not do enough to show they deserve more of an opportunity.

“Tonight was a night for players to come and say they want to be in the team on a Saturday but I’ll amazed if anyone comes to me at training on Thursday and says they should be in the team,” said the Blues boss.

“I’m quite disappointed.

“I’ve asked players who haven’t been in the team to go and perform and ask questions of me to try and be in the League team but not too many did that.

“We huffed and puffed but it’s winner takes all in this competition now because everyone is on three points.”

However, Powell refused to criticise the younger players he brought into the team.

“There was a couple of mistakes from young players but I’m not here to castigate them,” said Powell.

“The first goal was a poor goal and it’s not one we concede at first team level.

“But it’s a learning curve for them and that’s why you play then in these games.”