CHARLIE Kelman bagged a brace as Southend United’s under 23 team won 3-2 at MK Dons this afternoon.

Norman Wabo bagged Blues’ other goal in the exciting victory.

And coach Kevin Maher was pleased to see both strikers on target.

“Charlie and Norman took their goals really well and showed how much of a threat they can be together,” said Maher.

“They were three really good finishes and it got us a good win in what was actually a really good game.

“MK Dons fielded a strong side and I think most of them have been in and around their first team at times this season.

“We had a few as well and I thought we played to get the victory.”

Southend selected the fit-again Harry Lennon and Rob Kiernan at the heart of the back four while Dru Yearwood, who is currently suspended for the first team, lined up in central midfield.

But it was left-back Tom Clifford who nearly netted the game’s opening goal after just 12 minutes when he curled a fine free-kick against the crossbar.

However, Blues were not to be denied and they opened the scoring moments before the break when Kelman netted with a fine strike from just outside the penalty area.

MK Dons hit back to equalise in the 53rd minute when a clearance from Blues goalkeeper Ted Smith was volleyed back into the gaping goal by Ryan Harley.

But, two minutes later, Southend regained the lead Wabo creating a goal for himself out of nothing, showing neat footwork inside the penalty area before firing home.

However, the frantic spell continued as Blues stayed in front for just two minutes with Stephen Walker netting a second equaliser for the hosts as he scored from inside the penalty area.

Southend rallied and hit back to score what proved to be the winning goal in the 65th minute, with Kelman scoring his second goal of the game.

The goal was created by Wabo who burst forward into the box before setting up Kelman who netted with another clinical finish to secure victory. Blues’ under 23s host Luton Town next week.

Blues: Smith, Howard, Kiernan, Lennon, Clifford, Batlokwa, Hutchinson, Yearwood, Phillips, Wabo, Kelman.