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David Worrall's third goal in five games helped Southend bounce back from their FA Cup exit to non-league Chester by beating bottom club Hartlepool.

Worrall, Barry Corr and Kevan Hurst all forced Hartlepool goalkeeper Scott Flinders into first-half action.

Flinders also denied Michael Timlin after the break but could do nothing to stop Worrall firing home left-footed from 12 yards following Corr's pass.

Pools almost levelled, but Charlie Wyke was denied by keeper Daniel Bentley.

Bradley Walker also went close for Pools in the closing stages when he fired inches wide.

Southend stay in the League Two play-off places in seventh but Hartlepool remain rooted to the bottom with just one win in their last 11 games.