A dramatic late header from Gus Scott-Morriss salvaged a 2-2 draw for Southend United against Dagenham & Redbridge in a pulsating encounter at Roots Hall. The match swung back and forth from the outset, culminating in a frantic finish that left the home crowd breathless.
Southend’s bright start yielded an early goal in the 5th minute. A well-constructed move culminated in Harry Cardwell’s clever touch setting up Oliver Coker for a composed finish. However, Southend’s early ascendancy was disrupted by a tactical substitution just before the half-hour mark, with goalscorer Coker replaced by Jack Wood. The change seemed to disrupt the Shrimpers’ rhythm, allowing Dagenham back into the game. The Daggers capitalised on this shift in momentum in the 29th minute, winning a penalty which Reece Grego-Cox confidently converted to level the scores.
Dagenham grew into the game in the second half, their increasing pressure eventually telling in the 74th minute. Josh Rees found the back of the net to give the visitors a 2-1 lead, silencing the home support. A triple substitution from Dagenham followed, seemingly aimed at consolidating their advantage.
However, roared on by the Roots Hall faithful, Southend refused to be beaten. Deep into injury time, in the 93rd minute, substitute Jack Wood delivered a pinpoint cross which found Scott-Morriss, whose powerful header sparked wild celebrations amongst the home fans.
The late drama ensured a share of the spoils in a thrilling match. The draw leaves both sides mid-table, with Southend climbing one place to 13th and Dagenham dropping to 14th. The result extends Southend’s unbeaten run against Dagenham to four matches, having won two and drawn two of their recent encounters.