Southend United boss Dave Webb was relieved to hear the final whistle after the league leaders escaped with a point against struggling Fulham at Roots Hall this afternoon.
The Shrimpers started well but failed to build on John Cornwell’s first goal of the season after nine minutes. The former Leyton Orient defender converted a cross from Andy Ansah to give Webb’s side the lead, but Fulham’s new look defence kept the hosts at bay, with Glen Thomas outstanding again at left back. Thomas’ dominant displays have allowed Martin Pike to move into midfield and the Whites had the better chances in the second half.
Mark Newson had what looked like a good goal ruled out to the fury of the travelling support, whilst on-loan Tottenham forward Phil Gray has added another dimension to Fulham’s front line. Gary Brazil brought the Whites level midway through the second half and the visitors might easily have won it with Southend keeper Paul Sansome making smart late saves to deny Justin Skinner and Gordon Davies.
A disappointed Webb told the press after the final whistle: “That was the worst we have played at home this season and we will need to improve.”
SOUTHEND UNITED: Sandsome; Cornwell, Spence, Cawley, Powell, Austin, Tilson, Ansah, Butler, Benjamin, Angell.
GOAL: Cornwell (9).
FULHAM: Stannard; North, G. Thomas, Pike, Morgan, Newson, Scott, Skinner, Brazil, Davies, Gray. Subs (not used): Eckhardt, Haag.
BOOKED: Gray, North.
GOAL: Brazil (65).
ATTENDANCE: 5,808.
