Another loss, albeit against Birmingham, one of the Leagues top clubs. They were far too strong, particularly in the first half when they ran in four tries, quickly taking their points tally to 31.

Southend played with determination, competing well especially up front but the opposing backs were just too professional. They worked as a cohesive unit both in attack and defence. Breaking at will with quick distribution, fast hands, powerful running and a game plan, they were dangerous the whole of the first half. Southend had no answer.

When Southend did manage to gain some possession their attacks broke on strong defensive lines. It wasn’t until the 39th minute that they eventually forced their way through with a determined burst over the line from Luke Sloan. They went into the break 31 – 7 down.

The second half was more of a contest with Southend having the majority of possession however it did not stop Birmingham converting a penalty and then scoring their fifth try. Mitch Culpin ran and jigged his way down the left wing, breaking three weak tackles he grounded the ball over the try line, the conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

It wasn’t until the 70th minute that Southend scored the best try of the game. As he has done twice before this season Billings came off his wing at pace collected the ball and cut through the Birmingham defence, touching down under the post. More of that please!

That was to be it for the day with Birmingham running out a 39 – 14 victory. With Cambridge losing at Tynedale this result took them to 2nd in the table 8 points behind the all conquering Redruth.

Southend have now dropped to 13th second from bottom and are running out of options. We must go out with one idea and that is ‘to win’. The next five games are all achievable starting with Mounts Bay next weekend.

Alan Grace

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