SOUTHEND United skipper John White admitted the Shrimpers were not good enough in their derby defeat to Colchester United.

Blues are on the brink of relegation after being beaten 2-0 at the Community Stadium.

And White felt Southend got what they deserved against his former side.

“We weren’t good enough,” said White.

“It was crucial whoever got the first goal and then they did what we looked to do.

“They got a second and then looked to hook things on, turn things and make it a horrible game.

“Any team would do that once you’re 2-0 up and it makes it difficult for the other team to get into the game and any kind of rhythm.

“Those two goals have killed us but it just wasn’t good enough.”

And White found that tough to take.

“It hurts no matter where the result is because of the time of the season we’re at and what was at stake but it sticks the knife in even more when it comes against your local rivals,” said the 34-year-old.

“We won’t stop working though and we will keep going the best we can.”

Blues are now eight points behind Barrow with just three games left to play.

And White insists the Shrimpers will continue to give their all, starting with Saturday’s match against Leyton Orient at Roots Hall.

“We have to give everything we’ve got and see where that takes us,” said White.

“We’ve got to show the intensity and the attitude we’ve shown in the previous two games before this one which we should’ve got more points from.

“We are where we are for a reason and that’s shown a little bit tonight.

“We can’t dwell on it because we need points on the board and if we don’t get them then yes it’s done.

“It’s as simple as that but we won’t give up.”