Southend United right-back Vontae Daley-Campbell could have been sent off before Altrincham defender Matty Kosylo was dismissed in Saturday's National League opener. Altrincham boss Neil Gibson felt that Daley-Campbell committed a similar foul in the first half, but was let off with a warning. Gibson spoke to the fourth official in the first half, saying that Daley-Campbell had stopped Liam Humbles making his way through with a hand to the face. He was also tackled from behind, but the referee booked the wrong player. This decision put a different complexion on the game, according to Gibson. Southend United boss Kevin Dyer praised his striker after the win, saying that he was pleased with the way his team stuck to their task. Dyer also praised the level and strength of depth of the Southend United team, saying that they will be up there in the league. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 6th in England National League, 81 pts, 23W-12D-11L from 46 games, recent form WLWWD. Goals this season: 83 scored, 47 conceded (+36 goal difference). Title race: 27 points behind leaders York. Next fixture: vs Solihull Moors (away, 2026-08-22).