Blackpool started 2006 in the same way as they finished 2005 - with a defeat.

But there was much to admire in their second half performance against a Southend side who went top of the league after the clash with the 'other' seaside team - at least after half time.

The first half was all too typical of what Blackpool have come up with this season. Southend, a surprise package after winning promotion last year, enjoyed far too much possession, working the ball out wide while Blackpool were too often giving the ball away through long, hopeful punts forward.

It looked like Blackpool had managed to weather the storm - until the 38th minute when Mark Gower was allowed a second chance to cross and midfielder Mark Bentley headed home unmarked.

It was no coincidence that Gower enjoyed some success down the Blackpool left. Right-footed centre half, Mark McGregor, has given his all in that position but looked particularly vulnerable against one of the division's side and it was no surprise to see him go off, along with the ineffective Scott Vernon, at half time.

Veteran winger Jason Wilcox slotted in to the left back position with Ian Morris making a welcome return on the wing after agreeing to join the club for the rest of the season.

Up front, illness victim, John Murphy, provided a physical threat to a strong Southend defence.

Keigan Parker linked up with both substitutes impressively and had a host of chances and half chances after breaking the offside trap. He would have been through even more had the linesman been a better judge of his lightning pace rather than sticking his flag up at every opportunity.

But the Scottish striker's equaliser was a screamer, turning in the box before curling a shot past keeper Darryl Flahavan.

But this season's Blackpool are not a lucky team and while they spent most of the half camped in Southend territory, a last minute breakaway saw prolific substitute, Freddy Eastwodd, cut past Danny Warrender and hit a belting shot past Lee Jones at his near post.

It was a nightmare for Simon Grayson - but the Blackpool boss must be hoping that the luck which has so often been lacking this season is being held in reserve for what promises to be a tough relegation run in.