LEIGH Rocket Girls saw off American side the Mariners 5-1 in a pre-season friendly.

Lauren, Abbie and Terri, plus Hannah with two were all on target for Rockets.

“It was the first time my team have ever played a team from another country and the girls were very excited,” said Rockets’ Roger Slater.

The win came after Rockets won the Essex County Girls’ football league last season.

The Mariners, who hail from Washington State came to Europe to take part in a Spanish cup tournament before coming to Southend for a few days.

They contacted Rockets chiefs and asked if a friendly could be arranged. The match was played at Cupids Country Club in Great Wakering.