SOUTHEND United’s under 23 team coach Craig Fagan felt his side paid the price for not taking their chances in tonight’s Essex Senior Cup defeat to Billericay Town.

A second half hat-trick from Jake Robinson saw Town win the third round tie 3-2.

But Fagan thought it could have been a different story had Blues taken more of their chances when 1-0 up in the first half.

“We had four or five chances and we could have been 4-2 up or something like that,” said Fagan.

“That’s kind of killed us in the end because we should have taken those opportunities.

“We started the game well and I was pleased with how we played in the first half.

“But we should have had more to show for it.”

O’Shane Stewart fired the Shrimpers into an early lead.

But Fagan fully expected to Billericay to improve after the break.

“At half-time I said to the lads after the way we had played they (Billericay) would be getting a telling off in there,” said Fagan.

“They came out closing down with real intensity and got the equaliser.”

Matt Rush soon put Blues back in front before Billericay equalised for a second time after being awarded a soft penalty.

But Fagan refused to blame the spot-kick – given for a challenge by Tom Clifford – for the defeat.

“I’m not going to hold it on the penalty because we had the chances to win the game,” said Fagan.

“I don’t think that’s a penalty but at 2-2 I still thought we could go and win the game but that’s the difference.

“The lads need to learn how to see games out and not give sides opportunities to get back into the game.

“But am I pleased with the way we played with the ball? Yeah, we did better but it’s just seeing the games out and I’m disappointed we haven’t won the game.”

However, Fagan’s mood was lifted by the display of striker Rush.

“Rushy was excellent again tonight,” said Fagan.

“His work ethic and desire to win the ball back is what’s needed.

“He’s pushing to get into first team and wants to keep improving.”