KEVIN Maher thought Southend United were made to work hard for their 1-1 draw at Boreham Wood this afternoon.

The Shrimpers were forced to settle for a share of the spoils when Erico Sousa cancelled out a penalty from Jack Bridge.

But Maher was pleased with how Blues dug deep to avoid defeat.

"We had to work hard for it, especially in the second half," said Maher.

"We had to defend our box ever so well at times because they ask a number of questions of you.

"There will be games like that away from home and they’re one of the best in the league at getting you into areas you have to defend.

"There are crosses, corners and free-kicks coming in but I’m delighted the lads stood up to that and a point away from home after the run we’ve been on is a decent one."

The Shrimpers took the lead midway through the first half with Bridge on target from the penalty spot.

But Maher felt Blues failed to build on going in front.

"We had one or two opportunities and going 1-0 up you want to add it to it and make it more comfortable, " said Maher.

"But we lost control of the game a bit because we were sloppy on the ball and we got caught up in a second ball regain game and restarts.

"They’re probably better at that than us and once you do that they impose their game on you.

"In the end it was a decent point."

However, Blues were grateful for the fine form of goalkeeper Nick Hayes who pulled off a number of impressive saves.

"He was very good and the save at the end was outstanding," said Maher.

"It looked like it was in from where we were.

"When the pressure was coming on he did ever so well.

"He made a few good saves but the last one looked brilliant.

"And it made sure of a decent point against an opponent who will cause a lot of teams problems here.

"They’re in good form off the back of how they played in midweek.

"But for us Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday takes it toll and we just didn’t have that little bit of zip with us on the ball today."

The draw made it seven league games unbeaten for Blues in a game which again saw them roared on by an impressive away following of close to 1,300 fans.

"The following we take everywhere is unbelievable but it’s no surprise to me," said Maher

"It shouldn’t be taken for granted and I don’t.

"The players don’t either so thank you to them."