Plymouth Argyle's quest for promotion has been kickstarted with a victory over 10-man Southend United at Home Park.

Phil Brown's men were on the backfoot as early as the 15th minute when Cian Bolger was dismissed for two yellow-card challenges on Marvin Morgan.

Argyle looked to take advantage as Lewis Alessandra and Jason Banton both squandered opportunities to break the deadlock.

Plymouth's best opportunity of the opening period came when a 35-yard thunderbolt from Carl McHugh needed to be tipped around the post by Southend keeper Daniel Bentley.

However, seven minutes after the break, Bentley was helpless to prevent Alessandra finding the bottom corner of the United net.

The hosts doubled their advantage on 68 minutes as Alessandra turned provider, crossing for Reuben Reid, who powered the ball high beyond the visiting stopper.

Southend tried to find a late response as Brown brought on Shaquile Coulthirst, but both he and Will Atkinson were left frustrated as Plymouth leapfrogged their opponents in the young League Two table.