SOUTHEND United’s under 18 side picked a share of the spoils against Gillingham in their first home game of the season.

Goals from Matt Rush and Miles Mitchell-Nelson secured the Shrimpers a 2-2 draw.

And Blues coach Dave Huzzey was full of praise for the performance.

“Gillingham are always a strong, physical side to play against but we coped with that well and I was really happy with the performance,” said Huzzey.

“Obviously there are a couple of things we need to tweak but it’s been an encouraging start.”

The Shrimpers saw off Barnet in their opening fixture and Huzzey has been happy with how his young side have stepped up.

“There are plenty of positives, including having two under 16 players already involved which is great,” said Huzzey.

“Things will get harder when the other teams know what we’re about as the season progresses but that’s good for the players and their development.”

Blues opened the scoring in the 24th minute when Rush netted for the second game in succession when he rounded the goalkeeper to score.

The Gills hit back with an immediate equaliser before Blues regained the lead in the 59th minute, with Mitchell-Nelson on target.

The defender steered home a free-kick from Jon Benton but Gillingham fought back for a second time to ensure the game ended all square with an 80th minute equaliser.

Blues: Seaden, Chandler (Bragg 84), Osimeh, Brogan, Mitchell-Nelson, Wallace, Stewart, Benton, Kelman, Egbri, Rush. Subs not used: Taylor, Eastwood & Mpangea.