Match report: Shrimpers beaten away at Altrincham

Southend United were beaten 2-1 by Altrincham in the National League on Saturday.

The Shrimpers took the lead through Rhys Murphy in the first half, but Altrincham hit back with two goals in the second half to claim all three points.

Murphy gave Southend the lead in the 23rd minute when he headed home from close range following a cross from John White.

However, Altrincham equalised in the 65th minute through Ryan Colclough, who fired home from inside the area.

And the hosts completed the turnaround in the 75th minute when Josh Hancock scored from the penalty spot after Harry Taylor had been fouled in the area.

Southend pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but they were unable to find a way through the Altrincham defence.

The defeat leaves Southend in 15th place in the National League, while Altrincham move up to 12th.

Southend manager Kevin Maher was disappointed with the result, but he praised his players for their effort.

"We're obviously disappointed with the result, but I thought we played well in the first half and created some good chances," he said.

"However, we didn't take our chances and we were punished in the second half.

"Altrincham are a good side and they made it difficult for us, but we should have done better.

"We need to learn from our mistakes and move on."