The Youth Team's unbeaten run in the Puma Junior Alliance League was extended to five games following a 1 - 1 draw in a close contest against Southend at Nene Park on Saturday.

Injuries ruled out Jack Higgins and Alex Phillips but both James Freshwater and Sam Smith were back for Rushden.Smith started in attack and Higgins' place in defence was taken by Under 16, Connor Hayes.

Southend started the brighter and took the lead in the 10 minute as their left winger cut back inside in the box and finished from 8 yards.

Rushden's had two good opportunities to reply before the break.The first came after a foul on Sam Smith just outside the area.Anthony Weston's free kick seemed to be handled by the Southend player on the end of the wall but calls for a penalty were turned away.Then Lewis Hilliard robbed the Southend defender as he looked to shepherd the ball out of play for a goal kick but his cross as he broke into the box went comfortably over his team mates in the area to safety.

Just prior to half time, Freshwater replaced Jake Beecroft who was called as cover to the First Team Game at Histon and Dan Easlea replaced the injured Anthony Weston just after the break.

Half Time: Rushden & Diamonds Youth 0 - 1 Southend Youth

Rushden started the second half better and were rewarded with an equaliser on 61 minutes.Good work by Smith found Lewis Hallford on the right flank and his cross was well controlled by Hilliard who made no mistake from twelve yards to bring the scores level.

John Wigglesworth replaced Smith in attack on 77 minutes but the even contest continued for the remainder of the half with neither side able to conjure up clear cut chances to secure the three points.

Full Time Result: Rushden & Diamonds Youth 1 - 1 Southend Youth