SOUTHEND UNITED, managed by former Irish international Ronnie Whelan, enjoyed a comfortable win over Drogheda last night. Indeed, the score would have been much greater but for a number of excellent saves by Jody Byrne in the home side's goal.

Former Bohemians player Paul Byrne looked one of the most lively of the visiting side and set up several good chances for his team-mates. Drogheda did quite well for the first half hour or so and might have easily been in front, but Philip Power missed their one good chance.

Then Southend got into their stride and took the lead in the 39th minute when Julian Hailes put them in front following a series of corner kicks. The score followed a Paul Byrne corner.

Drogheda were a little unlucky to go two down, two minutes after the interval, when a fairly harsh penalty was awarded against Paul McLaughlin. Mike Marsh stepped up to convert the spot-kick.

The visitors continued to dominate the rest of the match, and there was little Jody Byrne could do about the third and final score by Andy Rammell in the 77th minute.