SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher felt his side were denied a “blatant” penalty during Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Oldham Athletic.

The Shrimpers screamed for a spot-kick in the second half when Jack Bridge appeared to have his shirt pulled in the box by Nathan Sheron.

And Maher could not believe referee Andrew Humphries opted to wave play on.

“It’s as blatant as you’re going to get,” said Maher.

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“The cross has come in and the defender is not even looking at the ball.

“Jack has got the wrong side of him and he’s tugged him.

“The ref looks at it but is then looking at the linesman 50 yards away, on the left back position, for advice.

“It’s crackers but we couldn’t seem to get a decision in the second half.

“Nothing was going our way and It was frustrating to say the least.”