SOUTHEND United’s under 23 coach Kevin Maher was full of smiles after seeing the Shrimpers secure one of the craziest victories of his career.

Blues’ youngsters saw off Bristol Rovers 5-4 on penalties in the semi-final of the Central League Cup after an eventful tie ended 2-2.

But the victory was secured with winger Eren Kinali in goal for the final 10 minutes and the shoot-out.

“I’ve had some eventful games in my career but that was a bit crazy,” said Maher.

“I remember Tes Bramble going in goal against Boston and us scoring at Swansea City with eight men but the game today was right up there with those two.”

Blues found themselves 2-0 down against the Pirates with Rhys Kavanagh and Alfie Kilgour both on target.

The Shrimpers got back into the game in the 79th minute when substitute Dan Walker netted but just 60 seconds later goalkeeper Josh Bexon had to come off with what appeared to be a cheek injury.

With no shot-stopper on the bench, winger Kinali went between the sticks.

And, despite the alteration, Blues bagged an injury time equaliser with Tom Clifford curling home a fine free-kick.

However, in the melee which followed the strike Shrimpers midfielder Michael Klass and the Rovers goalkeeper were both sent off before the tie went straight to penalties.

Amadou Ba, Clifford, Renei Batlokwa and Walker all netted before Joe Bedford fired home what proved to be the decisive spot-kick on his return from injury.

And Maher was full of praise for his players.

“The desire and character they all showed was superb,” said Maher.

“It was between Eren and Dan Walker who was going to go in goal but Dan was causing them problems up top so I didn’t want to change that.

“Eren did well to be fair to him and the players all showed great technique to score their penalties.

“It was great for Joe to score his on his return from injury but all the players deserve praise because they found a way to win the game and it's great to be in a cup final now."

Blues will now face either Bristol City or MK Dons in the final.

Southend United: Bexon (Pianim 80), Humphreys, Matsuzaka, Coutts, Clifford, Batlokwa, Bedford, Klass, Cotton (Walker 63), Gard (Kinali), Ba.

Subs not used: Howard & Curran.