WEALDSTONE boss Stuart Maynard admitted Southend United could have been out of sight by half-time at Roots Hall.

The Shrimpers failed to convert a number of chances from close range during a one-sided first 45 minutes which also saw Jason Demetriou failed to score from the penalty spot.

And Maynard felt it was ‘smash and grab’ from his side against the Shrimpers.

“We’ve been on the other end of smash and grabs when we’ve been the better team but if I’m honest they (Southend) could have been four or five up at half-time but the lads dug really deep,” said Maynard.

“The lads have learnt from that Stockport experience when we went 2-0 up.

“We told them this place would be as noisy as Stockport was and you’ve got to understand when they get their chances the crowd will rise but the lads dealt with it and managed the game superbly.”

However, Wealdstone still had to ride their luck at times.

Goalkeeper George Wickens saved a first half penalty from Demetriou after Noor Husin had been brought down in the box.

But Maynard revealed referee Tom Bishop admitted he got the decision wrong.

“I spoke to the ref just then and he said it wasn’t a penalty and was a harsh one,” said Maynard.

“They’re given sometimes but it’s tough for the officials when you come to these places having four or five thousand fans all appealing for it as well.

“It does put that doubt in your head but fair play he admitted it and made a good a decision for our goal when he played a great advantage.

“If he hadn’t had done that we don’t score.”