SOUTHEND United skipper Chris Barker insists he was right to get sent off during the 0-0 draw against Crawley Town.

The Blues centre-back was dismissed for handling Billy Clarke’s shot on the goal-line after an hour at Roots Hall on Monday night.

But goalkeeper Cameron Belford saved Clarke’s subsequent penalty to help Paul Sturrock’s side pick up a point.

And Barker remains adamant he made the correct decision.

“If I had not handled the ball then it would’ve gone in and we would’ve lost the game 1-0,” said Barker, 32.

“It was an instinctive thing and their player has shot at goal from three or four yards so I’ve had no time to think about it.

“However, sometimes you take it for the team and that’s what I did.

“The goalkeeper was then able to make a fantastic save and I certainly wouldn’t change what I did, even though it will be frustrating to miss Saturday’s match.”

Barker has been handed a one-match suspension after his red card and will have to sit out this weekend’s clash with Accrington Stanley at Roots Hall.

Blues will be looking to build on their hard-fought share of the spoils against Crawley.

And Barker felt it was important to remain ahead of Steve Evans’ side.

“We had to make sure we stayed at least six points clear of them and we did that,” said Barker.

“They have a few games in hand and we didn’t want them to get any closer, so we’re pleased."

FULL STORY IN WEDNESDAY'S ECHO