Rhys Henry bagged two goals in the last two minutes to secure Southend United a 3-1 victory over Croydon Athletic in the first round of the FA Youth Cup at Roots Hall last night.

The Shrimpers had seemed set for a shock exit when Harrison Carnegie headed home Toniwa Oni's right wing corner in the 48th minute of the match.

But Blues, who will now play Whyteleafe or Barnet in the second round, drew back level in the 76th minute when captain Tom Hopkins rose high to nod Johnny Herd's right wing corner into the top left hand corner of the net.

Ricky Duncan's side then made sure of the win as Henry netted a quick double.

The forward blasted into the back of the net from close range after Croydon keeper Reece Oscar allowed James Lindie's right wing cross to roll under his body.

Henry then netted his second during injury time when he netted a looping header after his initial effort had been saved by Oscare.

Southend: McDonald, Harvey, Hopkins, Jones, Herd, O'Keefe (Abbey 90), Priest (Abalimba 65), Thurlbourne, Forshaw (Morris 80), Lindie, Henry. Subs not used: Curtis and Adeyinka