SOUTHEND & EMT survived relegation from the Premier Division on a dramatic final day of term.

Southend’s last wicket pairing of Ben Wathen and John Horne stood strong at the end of the innings to secure a draw against Brentwood.

And, with relegation rivals Colchester & East Essex losing at Chelmsford, it was enough to ensure Southend stayed up by just a point - much to the delight of Joe Robbins in his final game as captain.

“It was a game that could have gone either way,” said Robbins.

“We did well to restrict them to 267, but we started poorly with the bat.

“However, Matt and Ollie Wagstaff both batted brilliantly to get us close.

“We were going for the win but once we found out the score in the Colchester game it became apparent that a draw would keep us up so we changed our game plan and just made sure we didn’t get bowled out.

“To get over the line was a great feeling, and a really great achievement for us.”

Southend - who were promoted from Division One on the final day of last season - were forced to survive a nerve-wracking final four overs.

But Robbins was delighted with his side’s spirit, which ultimately secured their survival.

“I was actually quite calm the whole time but the last four overs with John in at number 11 I think I lost a couple of fingernails,” said Robbins.

“But the lads showed great character and composure.”

Before the late drama unfolded, Brentwood had made 267/9 in their innings with Adam Rendall, who took 3-49, and Callum Druce, who notched 3-66, the pick of Southend’s bowlers.

In reply, Southend finished on 246/9, with Ollie Wagstaff top scoring with 83.

His brother Matt added 68 as Robbins’ four year spell as captain came to an end in pleasing fashion.

But Robbins admitted it had been a tough decision to make.

“It was a tough decision for me to step down,” said Robbins.

“I’ve had four great seasons as captain but I just felt the time was right to stand aside and let someone with some fresh ideas take charge.

“I’m very keen to stay involved and we will be having a meeting in the next few months to see where we go.

“But the planning for next season starts straight away and we do that with a year’s experience behind us.”