ALL GOOD things must come to an end and that is how it proved with Southend United's unbeaten run of results on Saturday.

Blues travelled to Tranmere full of confidence, having not lost since mid-February, but they were below their best against their resolute and well organised hosts, who fully deserved to edge a disappointing encounter.

At this level, a defeat at some stage was to be expected for the Shrimpers and there is no disgrace in being edged out by a Tranmere side who sit just outside the play-off positions.

But the bust up between Alan McCormack and Nicky Bailey, which followed Antony Kay's goal, left a nasty taste in the mouth.

And any possible ramifications which may occur must soon be sorted in order to increase the chances of a successful conclusion to the campaign.

In my opinion, the midfielders have been Blues' best two players this season - with 20 goals between them - and they will therefore play a huge part in the play-offs.

Both possess tremendous energy levels and their terrier-like qualities undoubtedly add to their games, but such aggression needs to be channelled in the right way.

Had Adam Barrett not intervened when he did then things would have been worse and they could both have easily been suspended for the play-offs.

Thankfully, the actions of the quick-thinking skipper and his defensive colleague Peter Clarke stopped the fracas getting completely out of control and meant it went unpunished by referee Graham Laws.

But lessons still have to be learnt, especially with some massive matches approaching.

For despite this defeat at Tranmere, the Shrimpers have enjoyed a superb second half to the season and are in still in with a great chance of returning to the Championship at the first attempt.

However, if that is to happen then the hot-headed players must keep their cool and let their football do the talking.