Oxford United’s reserves earned a 2-2 draw at Roots Hall this afternoon, with both of Southend’s goals being scored by former United striker Lee Bradbury. Oxford, who were 2-0 down after just eight minutes, scored through Andrew Younie and Yemi Odubade. Midway through the first half United were reduced to ten men when right back James Clarke was sent off for a late tackle on Mitchell Cole.

Bradbury opened the scoring after six minutes, beating Chris Tardif with a simple tap in. His second goal, two minutes later, was an altogether more spectacular volley from 16 yards. A minute later Younie pulled a goal back for United, following up after Yemi’s original shot had been blocked by goalie Joe Welch. Southend were unable to make their superior numbers tell, though, and on the stroke of half-time Yemi intercepted a bad pass and raced through to score from ten yards.

Apart from Yemi, the only Oxford players with regular first-team experience were Tardif and John Dempster, although new loan-signing Jamie Slabber played up front alongside Yemi. Oxford also gave a second run out to Pompey triallist Jonathon Docker.