HARTLEPOOL UNITED’S five-game unbeaten run came to an end, as they lost to Southend at Victoria Park.

But, with all the bottom five teams in the Football League losing, they remain outside the bottom two.

Pools gave a solid and fully-committed display against strong opposition and could count themselves unlucky to lose.

Striker Jordan Hugill was forced off after being injured only 12 seconds into the game, and it is understood he has suffered an eye injury.

He was replaced by Marlon Harewood, who gave an impressive show up top.

The visitors were strong and organised and made to work hard for the win which keeps them in the automatic promotion hunt.

Southend striker Barry Corr went close early on, but shot wide.

As half-time approached, Harewood took a Jon Franks return pass and his shot was arrowed towards the bottom corner, but his shot was saved.

Brad Walker pulled a shot low across goal at the start of the half, before Harewood and Franks got tied up by the visiting defenders after creating an opening.

But Pools conceded on 53 minutes, as a quick break down the left wasn’t dealt with and Will Atkinson cracked in from 12 yards.

Pools pressed the Shrimpers back at the end, with Scott Harrison thrown up front, but they couldn’t salvage a leveller, despite going close.