Defender Peter Clarke scored the only goal as Southend earned a win against League One newcomers Peterborough.

Southend's Damian Scannell shot just wide early on, before Nicky Bailey's 30-yard shot was saved by Joe Lewis.

Posh came close when Chris Whelpdale's low cross just eluded the outstretched leg of Craig Mackail-Smith.

Southend upped the pressure and were rewarded when debutant Dan Harding's corner dropped to Clarke and he lashed the ball home from six yards.

Southend: Mildenhall, Francis, Clarke, Barrett, Harding, Scannell (Betsy 71), Bailey, Moussa, Walker (Grant 83), Furlong (Revell 88), Barnard.
Subs Not Used: Sankofa, Joyce.

Goals: Clarke 76.

Peterborough: Lewis, Martin, Morgan, Westwood, Williams, Whelpdale (Torres 80), Lee, Keates, Boyd, Mclean, Mackail-Smith.
Subs Not Used: Tyler, Blackett, Hyde, Rendell.

Booked: Boyd, Lee, Williams.

Att: 8,665

Ref: Dean Whitestone (Northamptonshire).