Neil Campbell blasted a Roots Hall hat-trick as Southend United's second string eased past non-league minnows Maldon Town.

The 22-year-old striker, who has failed to find the net at first team level in four games following a £15,000 move from Scarborough, rifled home an impressive treble after 11, 18 and 76 minutes in last night's Essex Thames-side Trophy third round.

"It's always a great feeling to get a hat-trick, but I'm just pleased to have finally got off the mark in a Southend United shirt," said Campbell.

Campbell has missed Blues' last three matches through suspension and injury, but is hoping his goalscoring feats against Maldon will push him into contention for Saturday's Third Division clash with Exeter City at Roots Hall.

There was also good news for Southend on the injury front as right-back Julian Hails and central defender Leo Roget came through the match unscathed.

Player of the Season Hails sailed through the first 45 minutes, before being rested, and Roget lasted the entire match - but blotted his copybook by picking up a booking for a reckless challenge.

Southend's other goals came from forward Alex Burns, defender David Morley and left-back Nathan Jones.

However, the Jewson Premier League side's goalkeeper Dean Mahoney must also take credit after pulling off a string of fabulous saves.

Blues' Third Division trip to Rochdale has been rescheduled for Tuesday, March 30, and not March 9, as stated last night

Trevor Fitzpatrick enjoyed a goalscoring international debut for the Republic of Ireland under-18 team in Belfast last night.

He scored Ireland's first goal and set up the second for Luton Town's Gary Doherty in a 2-1 European Championship play-off win over Northern Ireland.

Tackle time - Mick Gooding avoids a tackle from a Maldon player

Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

(Right) New boys - (from left) Steve Spittle, Garry Cross and Yemi Abiodun sit in the Roots Hall stands with Blues director of youth Peter Trevivian.

The trio have just been handed one-year pro contracts with the Shrimpers. Spittle was in goal for the Blues last night in their 6-2 win over Maldon Town

Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

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