SOUTHEND United skipper Jason Demetriou felt Notts County were flattered by the margin of their victory at Roots Hall.

The Magpies secured a 3-0 win at Roots Hall, thanks to a hat-trick from Ruben Rodrigues.

But Demetriou did not think it was a fair reflection of the game.

“The score-line flattered them in my opinion and we did quite well in stages of the game,” said the right-back.

“If we get the penalty maybe we go on and nick a point but small things change games.”

Sam Dalby saw his second half spot-kick saved by Notts County goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros when the visitors led 2-0.

But Demetriou also stressed the Shrimpers striker was not to blame.

“It’s no fault of Dalbs, it’s just one of those things and he’s been excellent this year,” said Demetriou.

“But we have to take the positives from this.

“People do like to be negative but I like to try and stay positive.

“The mood isn’t too bad in there.

“We know we have to demand more from ourselves but I thought we were alright in spells today.”

Despite that, the Shrimpers slumped to a third defeat in succession.

And Demetriou believes effort levels will prove key in getting back to winning ways.

“The main thing is the work-rate,” said the 34-year-old.

“Everyone was on it today and we need that intensity.

“The other bits will come and it’s about confidence.

“We have to keep working hard and getting at people.

“It will turn if we keep on doing that because we’ve got good players and good people in there.

“The atmosphere is good and the coaches have done really well since coming in so it will turn.”

The Shrimpers face the toughest possible task next time out as they head to table-topping Stockport County.

But Demetriou stressed Blues will be doing all they can to stop their season fizzling out.

“The gaffer said strongly in there that the season isn’t going to peter out,” said Demetriou.

“Stockport are flying high but since the new manager has come in we don’t fear anyone.

“Today’s game if we score the penalty we’re back in it but we have to be at it now on Saturday.”