Recap: Southend 1-3 Harriers

Enterprise National League

Southend United

1 - 3

Fri 28 Aug

Roots Hall Stadium

Kidderminster Harriers

Match ReportLive Game Centre

Harriers produced a superb second-half comeback to secure a richly deserved 3-1 victory against Southend United at Roots Hall. Paul Wotton’s side conceded early and had to withstand significant pressure from an excellent Southend team, but showed tremendous character before goals from Lewis Walker (2) and Callum Stewart sealed a memorable Friday night win. The hosts struck with their first meaningful attack after ten minutes. Harriers were a touch wasteful in possession and Kyle McAdam’s run and cross found Leon Parillon, whose effort on the turn nestled in the bottom corner. Southend threatened again four minutes later when Sahid Kamara found space inside the area, but Jack Wint produced a smart save as the hosts continued to apply pressure. Harriers created their first clear opportunity after 19 minutes. Reece Devine’s corner caused problems and dropped for debutant Cameron Hargreaves, whose sweetly struck volley was well saved by Joe Duncan. The Southend goalkeeper was called upon again moments later when Callum Dolan’s swerving cross appeared to deceive him, but he recovered to make another good stop. Wint comfortably gathered Ryan Colclough’s well-hit effort from outside the area before denying Chambers-Parillon a second as Southend broke forward. Oli Coker then fired over shortly before the interval after Harriers had been robbed of possession. The introductions of Max Brogan, Ben Crompton and Stewart at the break and shortly afterwards helped transform the contest, although Wint was required to save another Colclough attempt early in the half. Harriers drew level on the hour after their pressure was rewarded. A corner was not cleared and Crompton took aim from the edge of the area, with his effort flicking off Walker and finding the net. Stewart quickly began causing the Southend defence problems and wriggled ahead of his marker four minutes later, forcing Duncan into a superb save. Wint then produced another excellent stop to turn away a free kick before somehow keeping out substitute Josh Popoola at the far post after Southend recycled the ball. Harriers completed the turnaround after 73 minutes. A free kick was delivered into the area and Davis won the initial header, allowing Walker to smash home a terrific finish. Dolan tested Duncan from distance as Harriers looked to extend their advantage, while Wint raced from his line to deny Harry Cardwell with his feet as the hosts searched for an equaliser. The victory was secured in stoppage time in magnificent fashion. Stewart raced more than half the length of the pitch after the ball was dropped in behind, held off his defender and kept his composure to finish superbly beyond Duncan, completing an outstanding 3-1 victory.