CAV Miley was 'gutted' to start his Southend United career with a 1-0 defeat to Boreham Wood at Roots Hall.

The summer signing played the full 90 minutes on the opening day of the National League campaign.

But Miley's joy at starting was cut short by the result.

"It was good to make my debut but I’m gutted with the result, especially with them going down to nine men," said Miley.

"We needed to make more of it and take something from the game, even a point in the end.

"In the first half we weren’t at our best and we didn’t play how we get told to and how we want to either.

“We played how they want us to but in the second half we were a bit more ourselves although, we’re gutted to lose.

However, Miley will not be reading too much into the result.

“It’s the first game and we don’t want to get too carried away,” said the 27-year-old.

“We need to go up to Solihull now and try and make it right.”

But Miley knows improvements will be needed.

“I played OK but I need to be a bit better myself,” said Miley.

“I don’t think anyone will be leaving the pitch saying they were good today, especially when you get beaten.

"We need to be winning games if we are to be where we want to be.

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