TWO goals in the space of three second half minutes saw a strong Southend United under 21 side lose 2-0 at AFC Wimbledon this afternoon.

Seven of the Shrimpers starting line-up have featured in the first team this season.

But they were unable to triumph against the Dons.

Blues went close to taking an early lead when David Mooney’s snap shot from Zavon Hines’ knock-down was well saved by the Dons goalkeeper before the home-side’s winger wasted a golden chance to score, firing over when clean through on goal.

Moments later, a Wimbledon striker also wasted a great opportunity to score as he fired wide of the left post from six yards before the Shrimpers hit back with Zavon Hines shooting over from the edge of the penalty area after being picked out by Frank Nouble.

Southend’s on loan midfielder Luke Amos then fired wide of the right post after a half cleared corner from Hines before Mooney sent an effort just of the target at the start of the second half.

Mooney then headed the ball down into the path of Hines who dragged an effort wide of the left post before the home-side opened the scoring in the 70th minute when Egli Carja reacted sharply to thunder an effort into the roof of the net after a shot had bounced back off the crossbar.

Three minutes later, the Dons doubled their lead following a controversial penalty decision given against John White.

George Oakley saw his spot kick well saved by Nathan Bishop before Oakley reacted sharply to fire home the rebound to seal victory for AFC Wimbledon.

Southend United: Bishop, White, Inniss, Matsuzaka (Salami 80), Coutts, Hines (Bedford 68), Amos, O’Neill, Bridge (Phillips 75), Mooney, Nouble Subs not used: Walker, Wabo, Cotton & Salami