Canvey Island 0-1 Southend United

Match Report by David Powell

Canvey Island continued their preparations for the new season, as they fell just short of an impressive result in a 1-0 defeat against Southend United at the Moviestarr Stadium.

In front of a crowd of just over 1300, the Gulls held their own against their troubled Vanarama National League opponents.

In the first half, Jack Wood had a goal disallowed for visitors as he was flagged for offside. Canvey were indebted to Sam Jackson between the sticks, who had to be alert to make a number of good saves.
He first denied Wes Fonguck at close range, before making a fantastic fingertip reaction save to keep out Harry Cardwell’s effort.

Elliott Ronto came the closest for Canvey when he found room around 20 yards out, but his attempted lob was held well by visiting keeper Colin Andeng-Ndi.

In the second half, Southend struggled to create chances as they introduced a number of youth players, with Canvey coming more into the game.

Andeng- Ndi had to be alert again, denying a Gulls’ triallist with an outstretched foot.

It was Southend though, who won the contest with 12 minutes to go, when Harry Taylor found room down the right, and his cross picked out Gus Scott-Morriss who headed past Jackson and into the far corner of the net.

The Gulls will feel unlucky not to have taken a draw from an even encounter, but will go again this Saturday as they take on Bowers & Pitsea in the Memorial Cup.