SOUTHEND United grabbed their first goalless draw of the season at Preston North on Saturday.

And it was most certainly a result to be proud of.

This time last term Blues were struggling towards the foot of the League Two table and Preston were a Championship club.

But, in the space of 12 months, Southend United have undergone a complete transformation.

Manager Paul Sturrock has been at the heart of the terrific turnaround and his tactical awareness again helped Blues battle their way to a draw at Deepdale.

The Scotsman quickly identified Jean-Paul Kalala was struggling in midfield and introduced Bilel Mohsni from the bench as part of a new formation which helped his side get on top.

Ultimately, only a fantastic save from Preston goalkeeper Thorsten Stuckmann stopped Ryan Hall bagging a late winner.

However, Southend also had their own shot-stopper, Luke Daniels, to thank as he again pulled off a string of fine saves between the sticks.

The on-loan West Bromwich Albion keeper has now conceded just one goal in five games and his showing on Saturday helped Blues show they are more than capable of mixing it with teams in League One.

That is also down to Sturrock’s hard work and his side will now be hoping to cause a cup shock when they host Preston in the replay next week.

However, with Blues also progressing to the area semi-finals of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy, the games are now starting to stack up and that remains a slight concern.

For although it is exciting to be facing teams from a higher level and also to be getting close to a Wembley final, promotion has to be the main aim for Southend this season.

And the squad must remained focused on keeping that as their number one priority.