A NEW ERA AT UNITED IS OFF AND RUNNING WITH A POINT

Lenell has role of party pooper

- Jason Creasey

SOUTHEND United started life under their new owners by securing a share of the spoils with York City at Roots Hall.

An early header from Gus Scott-Morriss put the Shrimpers ahead in the first game since the consortium headed up by Justin Rees officially gained control of the club.

But an equaliser from Minstermen substitute Lenell John-Lewis meant Blues had to settle for a point in front of a crowd of close to 8,000 fans.

And boss Kevin Maher felt the final scoreline was a fair reflection of the game.

“A draw is probably a fair result,” said the Shrimpers head coach. “It was a really good start from us.

“We had them under pressure and backed off into their box.

“We asked them a couple of questions and it was pleasing to then get the goal.

“We wanted to build on that but we got sloppy on the ball at times which allowed them a bit of momentum.

“But we’re a couple of weeks away from where we want to be.