A STOPPAGE time strike from Callum Powell secured Southend United a dramatic 2-1 win against Kidderminster Harriers at Roots Hall.

The Shrimpers seemed set for a share of the spoils when Harriers striker Amari Morgan-Smith cancelled out Harry Cardwell’s opener.

But Powell’s goal three minutes into stoppage time saw Kevin Maher’s side get back to winning ways and into a positive points tally for the first time since being docked 10 points.

Blues’ Dan Mooney sent an early 20 yard shot over the crossbar early on but the midfielder’s well-struck effort was the only action of a forgettable first half.

However, eight minutes into the second half, Blues went in front with Cardwell again on target.

The in-form forward collected a fine through ball from Noor Husin before scoring with a low, right footed shot from 12 yards for his fifth goal in seven games.

Moments later, a curling shot from Shrimpers midfielder Wes Fonguck was easily held by Kidderminster goalkeeper Christian Dibble before the hosts made their first change of the game in the 67th minute as Jack Bridge limped off and was replaced by Jason Demetriou.

A second change followed six minutes later with Powell replacing Dan Mooney in attack and Blues soon threatened with Cardwell heading Demetriou’s left wing cross wide of the right post.

But Kidderminster hit back and equalised in the 80th minute when a long range shot from Barry Maguire bounced back off the left post and Morgan-Smith was on hand to fire home the rebound from close range.

The Shrimpers replied with Nathan Ralph sending a scorching long range shot before play switched back to the other end with Jack Lambert having a curling shot smothered by Collin Andeng Ndi.

But Blues were not to denied and, deep into stoppage time, Powell fired home from close range after Cardwell’s effort from Demetriou’s left wing cross had rebounded into his path.