ANOTHER Southend United fans has his say.

The Blues’ FA Cup defeat against Chesterfield seems, on the face of it, an improvement compared to the last time we recently played them; we scored a goal this time and one less was conceded.

However this papers over the cracks given the missed penalty and injury time sending-off.

This speaks volumes for the underlying tensions of a team in long-term freefall and how to arrest the slide.

Firstly, we’ve got to get the players enjoying their football again.

The burdensome pressure, and consequential responses on the pitch, are palpable.

Maybe it’s worth investing further in the admittedly ever-burgeoning backroom and engaging a sports psychologist.

Secondly, it’s often said that domestic cup games are a distraction to teams in perilous league standing.

At least the Shrimpers can now focus 100 per cent on the league and consolidate their excellent 4-1 win against Dover.

ROBERT GAGE

Queensland Avenue, Rochford