SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher was disappointed with Cav Miley’s dismissal during the Shrimpers’ 0-0 draw at Woking.

Miley was sent off just three minutes into the second half after a late challenge on Cards midfielder Alan Judge.

But Maher did not agree with the first yellow card Miley received just before the break.

“The first one I think it’s a fair challenge and he’s got the ball,” said Maher.

“The fourth (official) has said he got the ball too.

“I don’t think he needs to book him for that but right throughout the game I think the referee has made a problem for himself by booking people.

“It’s wet and slick, are you not allowed to tackle anymore?

“The second one Cav’s got to stay on his feet when on a booking and he knows that but it’s frustrating the game is dictated by decisions again.

“Cav accepts that second one but we just had a look and there’s four red cards tonight and there are there or four games tomorrow night.

“ There were five red cards on Saturday and they’re affecting games.”

Blues had been on top during the first half with Macauley Bonne and Bim Pepple both going close to scoring.

And Maher felt the Shrimpers had the better of the opening 45 minutes.

“In the first half we had some good chances,” said Maher.

“Macca’s had a good one but the keeper’s made a good save to be fair to him.

“Bim’s had one where he’s just stretching and it goes past the post.

“Cokes has a great shot that goes just wide and we just felt we were a moment away from a getting a goal.

“We felt like we were on top but it was a scrappy game and the sending off changed it.”

However, Maher was pleased Blues were able to avoid defeat with 10 men.

“It's disappointing we couldn’t get into the lead and hang onto that,” said Maher.

“We still tried to go and win it at the right time but all in all when you go down to 10 men for 46 minutes or whatever it was a point isn’t bad.

We wanted to win but we’re glad we got something and the lads showed good fighting spirt.

“We’re frustrated because we want more points on board but the lads are fighting.

“We’ll keep going and things will turn.”