Goalkeeper Callum Taylor made a crucial second-half penalty save to help Southend United’s under 18 side secure a 1-1 draw at title-chasing Peterborough United.

Blues’ youngsters are looking to earn a place in EFL Youth Alliance Merit League One later in the season.

And Taylor was pleased to have boosted the Shrimpers’ chances by denying Brad Rolt from the spot.

“I saw him look to my right corner – his bottom left – and I thought that there was no way he was going to put it there because he’s made it far too obvious,” said Taylor.

“He went for the little stutter as well but I was halfway through the dive.

“I put everything into it and the relief when I saved it was one of the best feelings I’ve had this season, maybe even my career.

“I had to make it up to myself and I’m happy I did.”

And Taylor also made the save without the need of video footage.

“Some weeks we do look at penalties but we never seem to have a penalty against us that week,” said Taylor.

“This week we didn’t have any videos but, as he was taking it, I just thought it was a pressure moment and he didn’t have the desire to put it back across himself.

“I didn’t think he trusted himself.

“It was far too obvious he was going to put it in that corner, so I just stuck to it and made the save.”

The pivotal intervention arrived in the 72nd minute, and the spot-kick itself was as a consequence of Taylor bringing Rolt to the ground.

However, the Northern Ireland youth international quickly turned a potentially disappointing scenario into a moment of elation by springing to his left-hand side to push the shot to safety.

Rolt had earlier given Posh a 10th minute lead when he broke clear down Southend’s left before driving into the penalty area and steering his finish underneath Taylor.

However, Blues drew back in the 23rd minute when Ahmet Biler’s left wing cross was converted by the outstretched leg of Tommy Lambourne.

Blues have two matches remaining in the South East Conference and they go into the fixtures knowing their destiny is in their own hands if they are to reach the top Merit League.