SOUTHEND & EMT produced a stunning performance to trounce table-topping Orsett & Thurrock by 203 runs.

A century from Tom Phillippe helped Southend make 255-7 in their 50 0vers before they dismissed Orsett for just 52.

And that left skipper Joe Robbins delighted at the close of play.

“It was by far our best all round performance of the season,” said Robbins.

“When you beat the league leaders by 203 runs, it’s always very satisfying and everything went right for us.

“Tom played a fantastic knock to show his class and just why we are so pleased to have him at the club.

“Scoring 255 on that wicket we felt was like 350 on a normal day as it was a slow damp wicket which was also turning square for the spinners.

“Then with the ball we were also fantastic.

“Even without our overseas quick and Alex Karkoski, two of our front line bowlers, Ben Wathen again showed his quality, and with myself and Callum (Druce) chipping in as well, it showed that even without two front line bowlers, we’ve still got the bowling attack capable of really causing some damage.”

Southend were put into bat after losing the toss and recent signing Phillippe led the way with an impressive 101.

His innings included four boundaries and four sixes while Robbins chipped in with 38 and Phil Gray 34.

In reply, Orsett – who dropped to second after suffering the defeat – made just 52 with Matt Hills the only player to reach double figures after ending his innings unbeaten on 25.

Wathen took 4-17 with the ball for Southend while Druce picking up 3-10 and Robbins 3-16 to help secure an impressive victory which moved them up to fourth in the table.