Plymouth slipped to second in the table after being held to a goalless draw at home by Southend.

The match will mainly be remembered for the referee's decision to change his mind after awarding a controversial penalty to Argyle in the second-half.

Paul Wotton's cross from the right was handled in the penalty area in the 69th minute and referee Ray Olivier initially awarded a spot-kick.

However, following a Southend protest, a two-minute hold up and discussions with both linesmen, he changed his mind and gave a goalkick.

The draw meant that Argyle, who have been top of the table since 28 October, slipped to second place on goal difference behind Luton.

Argyle had their chances and after 15 minutes Shrimpers keeper Darryl Flahavan made a great diving save to keep out Michael Evans' spectacular overhead kick.

Three minutes later Evans was denied again when defender David McSweeney cleared the ball off the line.

Argyle continued to force the pace but Stuart Thurgood and McSweeney were in top form for the visitors.

Plymouth: Larrieu, Worrell, Wotton, Coughlan, Beswetherick, Phillips, Bent, Friio, Hodges, Evans, Stonebridge. Subs: McCormick, Sturrock, Adams, Keith, Wills.

Southend: Flahavan, Broad, McSweeney, Cort, Searle, Beard, Thurgood, Maher, Kerrigan, Belgrave, Whelan. Subs: Anthony Clark, Alderton, Gay, Wallace, Johnson.

Referee: R Oliver (Sutton Coldfield).