Such was the shocking standard of Southend United's showing at the classy KC Stadium on Saturday, that it was not only their all white strip which was reminiscent of England!

For, just like Steve McClaren's struggling international side during the week, the Shrimpers lacked a spark against one of their biggest relegation rivals and never got going in what was easily their worst display of the season so far.

Blues, who would have overtaken Hull had they won, were outrun and outfought by the far hungrier home side and, in truth, their victory could have been even more convincing as the Tigers also hit the crossbar twice, had a goal disallowed and saw another effort scrambled off the goal-line.

In contrast Southend managed just one solitary strike on target and even that came two minutes from time in a desperately disappointing afternoon for Steve Tilson's troops.

A poor pitch did not help and neither did another dubious penalty decision which handed Hull the lead, but they were only slight factors which contributed towards Shrimpers continuing their frustrating record against the teams in and around them at the foot of the table.

After this latest defeat, Blues have now taken nine points from a possible 30 in the 10 matches they have played against the six sides closest to them at the foot of the division.

That wretched record is one which has undoubtedly contributed towards their lowly league placing and, with do-or-die battles against both Luton and Barnsley fast approaching, it is also a trend which has to end if Southend are to survive at this level.

Bizarrely, the Seasiders have managed to beat five of the top nine teams - but they now need to find a way of despatching the other clubs in danger.

Because, with other results going their way at the weekend, Blues are still in with a chance of staying in the Championship - but only if immediate improvements can be made.