ON-LOAN Southend United striker Bim Pepple suffered a painful afternoon against Sutton on Saturday – in more ways than one.

The on loan Luton Town forward suffered a nasty looking clash of heads with Ryan Jackson in the first half of the 3-1 defeat at Roots Hall.

And Pepple was also hurt by not making more of a good chance to score when the Shrimpers were one goal in front.

“It’s a tough one to take,” said Pepple.

“In the first half we were on track but goals change games and that’s on me, I need to finish my chance.

“That probably would have put the game to bed but in the second half they scored a couple and we’ll have to bounce back on Tuesday now.”

The Shrimpers head to AFC Fyle tomorrow.

And Pepple is keen to see a strong reaction from Kevin Maher’s side.

“We’ll look back on what we did wrong but we can’t fix this game now,” said Pepple.

“It’s about looking forward and the games are coming thick and fast now.

“The most important thing now is three points on Tuesday and wiping this one clean.”

Blues will need to produce an improved performance to pick up more points.

And Pepple insists he will be fit enough to feature despite the nasty looking cut on his forehead.

“I just wanted a goal so I put my head on the line,” said Pepple.

“I feel alright, there was a bit of blood but it’s OK."