SOUTHEND & EMT slipped into Division One’s relegation zone after suffering a 75-run defeat against Hutton.

Hutton scored 322/7 in their 50 overs before Southend were bowled out for 247 in reply.

And captain Scott Simmons felt losing the toss proved pivotal.

“Saturday’s game was a bad toss to lose,” said Simmons.

“Hutton went about their business very well and apart from two early drops they gave nothing all day and batted us out the game.

“The bowling attack tried hard all innings but sometimes you have to hold your hands up and say well batted.”

Philip Everett was the pick of Southend’s bowlers as he took 3-72 before opener Numan Khan top scored with 64.

Fellow opener Carl Lees hit 41 before Southend’s innings began to fade.

“We started well with the bat but after the short rain interval wickets started to fall and the run rate just kept increasing,” said Simmons, who ended up on 41 not out.

“It was about getting some valuable time in the middle ready for next week’s game.”

Southend now sit second from bottom in the table and are 14 points behind Upminster, who sit immediately above the relegation zone.

But Simmons is still confident of turning things around.

“Every game in this league is tough and everyone can beat everyone, as we saw this weekend,” said Simmons.

“But if you’re not 100 per cent on it there’s no chance.

“We are taking every game as it comes, working hard for each other and ensuring we enjoy our cricket, that’s all that matters. Results will take care of themselves.”

Southend will now be looking to get back on track when they host Fives & Heronians at Southchurch Park this weekend.

“Fives this Saturday is going to be a good game,” said Simmons.

“We can’t wait to get back out there.”