SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell has revealed a rogue whistle stopped the Shrimpers in their tracks at Charlton Athletic on Saturday.

Stephen Humphrys seemed set to trouble the Addicks defence before randomly stopping in his tracks.

And Powell has now confirmed the striker heard a whistle in the crowd at the Valley.

“There was a strange incident in the first half,” said Powell.

“We looked as though we were in with Stephen Humphrys but we believe there was a whistle.

“Some people have said it was in the away end but I can’t see our fans blowing a whistle when we were on the attack.

“But Steve actually stopped.”