SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown said his side’s 1-0 win against Reading under 23s was a feather in the cap of the club’s academy.

Five members of the Shrimpers starting line-up came through the youth ranks at Roots Hall.

And Brown was happy to see them see off the Royals in the Checkatrade Trophy.

“We had a young side out and it was a great exercise because they have that experience of first team football now,” said Brown.

“There was a lot to admire including the clean sheet but this was a real feather in the cap for our academy because so many of them shone.”

And Brown was particularly impressed with right-back Elvis Bwomono who returned to the team in place of Jason Demetriou.

“I thought Elvis had a fantastic game, especially in the first half when he was driving forward,” said Brown.

“I was fortunate enough to play 700 odd games as a right-back in my own career so I won’t be giving Elvis any bad advice but I want him to play higher than I did and I think he can.

“He’s showing signs that he’s got the skill and the mentality you need too.

“The team are in there saying they are looking forward to seeing him playing at Doncaster on Saturday but I haven’t made that decision yet because there’s lots to be thinking about.”

However, Brown is happy to be heading into the game pleased to have extended his side’s winning run to four matches.

“It’s nice to keep the winning run going and that’s the most important thing,” said Brown.

“We made nine changes so other players got a chance but I’ve got five in my starting line-up who are in the top 10 with regards to appearances this season so I don’t think we will incur anyone’s wrath.”

One of the alterations saw Theo Robinson make his third start of the current campaign.

And Brown was delighted to see the striker score his first goal of the season.

“It was good for Theo to get the goal and he can close to getting a second,” said Brown.

“It will be top drawer for his confidence.”