SOUTHEND United’s academy manager Ricky Duncan remains rightfully proud of a memorable weekend for the Shrimpers’ youth system.

Blues’ under-18 side made it through to the Youth Alliance Cup final before nine academy graduates were selected in Blues’ first team squad for Saturday’s clash with Plymouth Argyle.

Among those was Charlie Kelman, who scored on his League debut from inside his own half.

But Duncan was equally as pleased for another striker, Emile Acquah, who bagged the winning goal for Harlow Town in their 2-1 win against Haringey Borough.

“It was a great day and it’s testament to the hard work which is done by so many people in the academy,” said Duncan.

“The under-18s produced a really, really good performance in their cup semi-final against Cambridge and it’s great to have got through to the area final, which is the furthest we’ve ever got. I don’t really like to say it but it was a comfortable 3-0 win in the end and it gave us a good start to Saturday.”

However, things were soon to get even better for Duncan and the academy coaches due to the number of young players called upon by Blues boss Chris Powell against the Pilgrims, including Dru Yearwood - who made his 50th first team appearance.

“We had four academy graduates in the starting line-up which was nice to see and it was good for Dru to get to 50 games,” said Duncan.

“Norman Wabo and Charlie were on the bench and we were all hoping they might get on.”

Kelman eventually got the nod and soon caught the eye with an outrageous effort from long range which did not actually surprise Duncan.

“It was exceptional but we’ve seen him do it in youth games,” said Duncan.

“I remember being at Barnet on a freezing cold Sunday, talking to a scout. I said to him have a look at Charlie because he’s unbelievable and scores goals from all areas.

“I told him he would make it and as we looked back onto the pitch Charlie hit one right into the top corner and I just said there you go.

“He’s known for having that in his locker so, for us, what happened on Saturday wasn’t a surprise. He did it at Cambridge earlier this season and he has the ability to score a goal when it matters.

“It’s fantastic what he did and he has a great mentality but he still has to finish his education and stay behind to work on all the little areas.

“He’s not ready to play week in, week out. He’s still only 17 but he’s learning so much from being around the first team.”

But there was still more to come for Blues at the weekend.

“We got back in the car after the game and said whose next,” said Duncan.

“Then we turned on the radio and heard Emile scored the winner for Harlow, so there’s another lad doing well. It was a fantastic day.”