MARK Molesley wants to see improvements in both penalty areas when Southend United host Port Vale at Roots Hall tomorrow.

The bottom of the table Blues go into the game having failed to win so far this season.

But Molesley has been encouraged by the last two performances, despite them both ending in defeat.

“It’s a tough time but the last two performances had some positives moments in them,” said the Blues boss.

“We’ve dominated possession but we’ve ultimately come up a little bit short in both boxes.

“I thought we nullified both Oldham and Tranmere to not many chances but we’ve been harshly punished for any kind of looseness that we’ve had.

“We’ve had to work a lot harder at the other end to try and get our goals.

“But we know we’ve got to better in both boxes and I do feel like we’re improving.”

The Shrimpers have taken two points from their opening nine League games and Molesley is certain things will soon start to turn around.

“Where we are at the moment is not where we’re going,” said Molesley.

“You don’t always see the fruits of your labour right away and we’ve got to keep believing in the work we’re putting in.

“Hopefully soon we can cash in on that.”

Vale visit the Shrimpers sitting seventh in the standings but Molesley feels his side will be ready for what is facing them.

“We’ve prepared the best we can but we can’t go too heavy with the boys after having so many games in a short space of time,” said Molesley.

“But we will give them the respect they deserve.