Ryman North side Redbridge caused a BBC Essex Senior Cup upset as Sky Bet Football League One club Southend United were blown away at a gusty Roots Hall.

Goals from Billy Drake and Jay Knight saw the Motormen through as the East Londoners won at this venue for a second time following a 3-2 success in 2009. Southend’s side included goalkeeper Ted Smith, returning from international duty with England Under 20s, as well as Japan Under 19s international Dan Matsuzaka. But they were left to rue missed chances as Redbridge capitalised to set-up up a Round Four trip to East Thurrock United.

The visitors grabbed the lead in the 12th minute as Harry Prince slid a low cross into the six-yard box where Drake was on-hand to tap in from close range. Southend’s response was quick as Jack Bridge twisted through the penalty area before angling against the far upright before Fred Gard, at full stretch, poked just wide at the back post following Nico Cotton’s centre.

Redbridge’s debutant goalkeeper Sam Sargent, who had sat on the bench for Leyton Orient live on Sky Sports just two days earlier, was brought into action soon after as he kept out Bridge’s fizzing long-range effort before making a sharp stop to deny Jason Williams.

A half chance for the visitors just after the break saw Rigers Kabashi send a dipping 25-yard strike inches over the top before a strong run from Southend’s Williams generated a firm shot which was well held by Sargent.

Redbridge substitute Paulius Ditkevicius then curled into the gloves of home ‘keeper Smith before the young international made a good block to keep out Knight. Drake then dragged the rebound wide of the post.

A long clearance from Smith later picked-out Williams, only for the forward to be denied again by Sargent. This proved costly, as Redbridge sealed the contest two minutes into added time when Knight pounced on the ball eight yards from goal before finishing beyond Smith

Redbridge now progress to the 4th Round where they will travel to Ryman Premier side East Thurrock Utd on Tuesday 1st December.

Match Report by www.essexfa.com