International Club Friendly

Southend United 1–1 Leyton Orient: Shrimpers and O's Share Spoils

A competitive pre-season derby at Roots Hall on 25 July 2026 ended in a 1-1 draw between Southend United and Leyton Orient. Both sets of fans were treated to an entertaining encounter that featured end-to-end action and a share of the goals, as the National League hosts took on the League One visitors.

Leyton Orient struck first midway through the first half after a defensive lapse from Southend. A long ball over the top caught the home backline flat, and the O's forward showed composure to slot past the advancing goalkeeper. Southend responded well and equalised just before the break. A flowing move down the right wing ended with a low cross that was turned home from close range by a Shrimpers striker.

Fitness and Rotation

The second half saw both managers ring the changes, with several academy players given valuable minutes. The pace of the game inevitably dropped, but both sides created half-chances. Southend's goalkeeper made a fine save to deny Orient a winner from a free kick, while at the other end, a powerful shot rattled the post. A draw was a fair reflection of a well-contested friendly.

For Southend, the performance against higher-league opposition will boost morale. Leyton Orient will be satisfied with their sharpness in possession. Attention now turns to the final pre-season fixtures before league campaigns begin.