Striker Scott Vernon insisted Southend United were left gutted following last night's devastating 2-1 defeat at Norwich City.

Vernon fired the Blues into a shock lead against the league leaders at Carrow Road.

But two efforts from Oli Johnson in the final 12 minutes meant United returned home empty handed and only goal difference is now keeping them above the relegation zone.

"We're just completely gutted about losing to be honest," said Vernon.

"We went ahead and that really gave us something to hang on to.

"We worked incredibly hard and really did give it everything but we conceded two more poor goals from our point of view and we're devastated to have lost like this."