SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher was a frustrated figure following his side’s 1-0 defeat to Boreham Wood at Roots Hall.

Danny Newton’s first half goal secured the visitors all three points on the opening day of the National League season.

And Maher was disappointed to end the afternoon empty handed.

“It’s obviously not the ideal start,” said Maher.

“I didn’t like us in the first half and we didn’t play anything like what we’re capable of in terms of moving the ball.

“Everyone was taking too many touches and trying to be safe.

“We ended up going back and letting bodies get behind the ball.

“That was disappointing and we conceded a poor goal from our point of view.”

Newton’s goal proved to the difference between the two teams and Blues were unable to get back into the game despite the visitors ending the game with nine men.

“When the sending offs happened they had something to hang on to and you have to give them credit for that,” said Maher.

“The keeper made a couple of good saves but we didn’t do enough in terms of clear cut chances.

“That’s disappointing and you’ve got to score goals.

“We haven’t done that again today and that area of the pitch is the most important.

“We huffed and puffed second half without real clear cut chances but give them credit for the way they defended with nine men.”

However, Maher will now be focused on ensuring his side make the right kind of reaction.

“I know we can do better and we have to do better moving forward,” said Maher.

“We’ve got to be better and bounce back next week now.”

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