MANAGER Paul Hurst wants Grimsby Town to use their 0-0 draw against fellow-strugglers Southend as a building block in the quest for League Two survival.

Separated by one point ahead of kick-off, the EFL’s bottom two sides played out a goalless and largely chanceless affair at Blundell Park.

Hurst said: “We wanted three. But as much as we needed the points, it was important that we didn’t lose and we took something from the game.

“We didn’t set up with that in mind. What we witnessed is two teams that are battling for their lives and, particularly ourselves, are struggling for form.

“They have been picking up points and wins. From that point of view, it’s a decent enough point for us and something to try and build on.

“It’s a clean sheet, so that’s a little bit better. I can’t fault the players for effort. I think you saw a committed group of players out there but, at the same time, there has to be a point where we add some quality to that.

“There were times when the ball was kicked anywhere. We have to be better than that and show a little bit more thought in our play.

“But at the same time, for the next few games, it doesn’t matter how pretty it is, it’s about picking up some points.”