SOL Campbell was left encouraged by his first game as Southend United manager – despite losing 3-1 to Ipswich Town at Roots Hall.

The setback extended the Shrimpers’ winless streak to seven matches.

But Campbell – who took control of the club earlier this week – was keen to remain upbeat.

“There were a lot of positives,” said the former England international.

“We started off well and we should have had a goal because it shouldn’t have been disallowed when Rob Kiernan scored.”

“He’s onside and he’s level.

“But that’s how it goes sometimes when you’re at the bottom. Sometimes you don’t get the rub of the green.”

Ipswich took advantage to surge into a 3-0 lead.

But Campbell was happy to see Blues fighting right until the final whistle.

“The main thing for us was we didn’t give up and we got a goal,” said the former Arsenal defender.

“They didn’t throw the towel in and that pleased me a lot.

“They gave everything and if we keep that attitude things will change so it will be us getting the rub of the green.

“They worked hard and that’s probably the hardest they’ve worked for some time.

“That’s the level but we have to build on that now.”

And Campbell also feels there is still more to come from the Shrimpers.

“The last pass to make the difference wasn’t quite there,” said the 45-year-old.

“We were choosing the wrong pass but they did some good blocks in their box to be fair.”

However, Campbell was also keen to stress the need for Blues to get fitter.

“The fitter we get the more things will happen,” said Campbell.

“The team has to get fitter and once we do less mistakes will happen.

“We should have been livelier for their third goal but that’s fitness.

“When you’re not as fit the mind goes and you make mistakes.”