SOUTHEND United manager Mark Molesley has explained why Jason Demetriou was brought on to replace the injured Simeon Akinola at Oldham Athletic this afternoon.

Demetriou came in midfield for the final 12 minutes with Greg Halford moving up despite Brandon Goodship and Ricky Holmes both being on the bench.

But Molesley was keen to have more height further forward.

“We had to think quickly when Sim pulled up but we decided to push Greg up as more of a targetman as we felt the aerial balls in the box were causing them problems,” said Molesley.

“It was also a case of getting more energy into midfield as it was a big pitch that was energy-sapping.

“I just went with more energy in midfield and mor height up top was the way to go.

“Greg also has a long throw and I thought aerially we could hurt them.”

The match ended in a 0-0 draw which saw the Shrimpers slip back into the relegation zone.