SOUTHEND United manager Mark Molesley feels the Shrimpers must continue to believe in themselves – despite today’s 2-0 defeat at Tranmere Rovers.

Blues have now gone 11 games without a win this season and sit bottom of the League Two table.

But Molesley is doing all he can to remain upbeat in the testing circumstances.

“We have to keep believing in ourselves,” said Molesley.

“We created a lot of chances, we had a lot of possession and made them work really hard.

“But we need to make even more chances and we will keep on working to do that.

“We have to keep on believing in the process too and keep picking ourselves up.”

The Shrimpers were initially on top at Prenton Park and forced Tranmere boss Michael Jackson into a double change on the half hour mark.

And Molesley was encouraged by Blues’ start.

“We started well and looked really bright,” said the former Weymouth boss.

“It was all us dominating the game and they made two substitutions to change it because we were causing that many problems.

“We didn’t get the breakthrough and their keeper made a couple of good saves.”

Tranmere broke the deadlock shortly after their changes with former Shrimpers defender Peter Clarke heading home a free-kick from Liam Feeney.

And Molesley was frustrated by the manner of the goal.

“We switched off from the free-kick unfortunately and it was downfall against Salford after a bright start as well,” said Molesley.

“We’re getting punished for our errors but we have to be better in those situations too.

“Their tails were up after scoring but we huffed and puffed after that.

“We kept trying to probe and play but then there was a cruel deflection for their second. “

However, Molesley was pleased with his side’s fighting spirit.

“The boys could’ve been forgiven for feeling sorry for themselves but they didn’t,” said the 39-year-old.

“They kept battling but at 2-0 you could see they (Tranmere) wanted to see the game out and they made it difficult.

“It’s another tough one take but we have to be strong now.

“It’s a tough time for everyone at the moment but we have to stand up and be counted.”

Blues are back in action against Oldham Athletic at Roots Hall on Tuesday night.

And Molesley is keen to see improvements at both ends of the pitch.

“We are playing some good stuff but we’re not quite being clinical enough in both boxes and ultimately that’s what football is about,” said Molesley.

“They are tough times at the moment but tough times make tough people.

“When we come through this we will be much better for it.”