A late strike from young forward Tom Byrne handed Southend United reserves a deserved 1-1 draw at Brighton last night.

The speedy hit-man struck home a well struck shot just two minutes from time to claim a deserved share of the spoils for a Southend side who had earlier missed a penalty through Jim Corbett.

"It was a good result and a good performance," said Blues boss Steve Tilson. "And in the end we could have won it.

"Jim Corbett had a penalty saved by the keeper, Joe Ilett hit the post and Michael Husbands also had a couple of good shots on target.

"Overall it was good team display, they showed a good attitude and that was good to see."

Published Thursday August 19, 2004

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