Southend United's under-19 team finished off their Merit Division campaign in style with a 3-2 triumph at Torquay.

Striker Tom Byrne stole a last-minute winner on the Devon coast after fellow Blues youngsters Phil Anderon and Michael Kightly had also got on the scoresheet.

The away win meant Steve Tilson's side finished the season with three straight victories, stretching their unbeaten run to four games.

Blues' babes ended up fourth in the final league table, just six points behind champions Swansea City.

"The players have worked hard and reaped the benefit," said Tilson. "We finished on a high, winning our last three matches."

Published Thursday, May 1, 2003

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