Southend slip up as Aldershot fight back for win

Aldershot came from behind as they returned to winning ways with a much-needed 2-1 National League victory at Southend.

The hosts took the lead through Rhys Murphy after 16 minutes as the former Arsenal youth striker picked up Dan Mooney’s pass just inside the box and slotted the ball home.

Jack Barham missed a great chance to equalise – with only the goalkeeper to beat – as he shot over the crossbar before Olly Pendlebury fired a free-kick over as Shots fought to come back into the game.

Pendlebury forced a diving save from Southend goalkeeper Steve Arnold 10 minutes after the break with a powerful shot from distance, while Harry Cardwell sent a Mooney free-kick over from close range at the other end.

But Aldershot got the equaliser their pressure deserved after 64 minutes as Tyler Frost slotted the ball under Arnold from close range following a break.

They went ahead six minutes later as Joe Partington sent Arnold the wrong way from the penalty spot after the goalkeeper brought down Justin Amaluzor on the edge of the box.