EASTLEIGH boss Kelvin Davis says he will take his side's 2-0 defeat at Southend United on the chin.

The Shrimpers produced a fine performance to secure all three points against the Spitfires.

But Davis always knew it would be a difficult encounter for Eastleigh.

"We knew it was going to be a tough test midweek away at Southend," Davis told the club's YouTube channel.

"It was always going to be a challenge and we knew their tempo of play was going to be uncomfortable for us at times.

"They got their goal in a good moment for them and we didn't manage to get a goal when we had our moments and that's probably the difference on the night."

Nathan Ralph fired Southend in front before Jack Bridge netted from the penalty spot.

But Davis did not know why the spot-kick was given.

"I'm not sure anyone can see why it was given," said Davis.

"I spoke to Lloydy who said he was shoved over and landed on the ball but the ref was quick to give it.

"The rain, the wind and with the ball in the box sometimes they go for you and sometimes they don't.

"But we'll take that one on the chin and fair play to Southend, they dealt with our threat very well."

However, Davis did not feel Eastleigh could have scored after the break.

"In the second half we had more opportunities than in the first," said Davis.

"We had enough to get a goal and if we had got one it could have been interesting. 

"But not picking anything up away at Southend is not going to define our season."