SOUTHEND United boss Mark Molesley says the Shrimpers cannot be ‘feeling sorry for themselves’ when they take on Carlisle United tomorrow.

Blues - who have started the season with three successive defeats - were beaten 4-0 by Harrogate Town on the opening day of the League Two campaign on Saturday.

But Molesley is keen to see a strong reaction from his side against the Cumbrians.

“We’re looking for a quick reaction and we need to see some positive body language as we can’t feel sorry for ourselves,” said Molesley.

“It was difficult last week but we learnt some valuable lessons and we have to make sure we come out stronger on Saturday.”

And Molesley - who joined the Shrimpers from Weymouth in the summer - has been encouraged by a good week on the training ground.

“The lads have trained really well and we want to show improvements,” said the 39-year-old.

“There were some naïve moments last week but I don’t think the score-line quite reflected the way the game went.

“We’re looking to improve and everyone has been working hard all week to get us in the best possible shape.

“But last week is last week and it’s now all about this week and playing Carlisle.”

Chris Beech’s side were also heavily beaten on Saturday as they slumped to a 3-0 defeat at Cambridge United.

However, Molesley feels the home-side will be another tough team to take on.

“They’re an experienced side at this level,” said Molesley.

“They have some good players and some threats so we’ll give them the respect they deserve but at the same time we’ll focus on ourselves and our game to try and impact on them.”