Shrewsbury Town came back down to earth with a bump after their FA Cup heroics against Everton, as Southend ended the Shrews unbeaten home run of 10 games with a 1-0 win.

Young striker Jay Smith was the Shrimpers hero with a 20th minute goal which proved to be the winner.

Smith cashed in on some slack defending to fire home from close range after Tes Bramble pulled the ball back from the right touchline.

The Shrews rarely threatened a well marshalled Southend defence, for whom Leon Cort was once again outstanding.

In fact Southend were only denied a more emphatic win by home keeper Ian Dunbavin, who pulled off fine saves from Smith and Mark Rawle late on.