SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell was left ‘heartbroken’ following the Shrimpers’ 1-0 defeat at Barnsley.

Kieffer Moore’s late header handed the Tykes all three points at Oakwell.

But Powell felt Blues deserved to take something from the game.

“We put in a real dogged away performance and to lose a goal like that from a set play is a real dagger to the heart,” said Powell.

“A point away from home would’ve set us up for the two cup games we have coming up and I’m heartbroken.

“I sound like a broken record but some of our approach play from back to front is top drawer and top League One standard but you have to take the chances or you get hurt.”

Harry Bunn wasted two early chances for Blues before Simon Cox saw an effort ruled out for offside in the second half.

And Powell was not sure if it was the correct decision.

“We had a disallowed goal which I think is disallowed because Simon is closest to the assistant referee,” said Powell.

“It's extremely close but they normally go in your favour as a striker.

“But fair play to Barnsley.

“The delivery for their goal is Premier League let alone League One.

“The players are heartbroken and it’s a tough one to take.

“I’m really hurting for the players, our fans and the club because we should’ve come away with a hard earned point.

“I couldn’t have asked any more of the players but we will have to bounce back.

“We can’t dwell on this or the injuries.