Southend City FC get off to a scoring start in their debut against Soul FC: match report and interviews

The first game of the season is an exciting occasion for any football club but this was Southend City Football Club’s first ever competitive league match in their inaugural season in professional football. Starting their season against Soul FC in the first fixture of the Essex Alliance League (East) they kicked off their campaign at Lakeside Sports Ground.

Ahead of the game, we spoke to captain Alfie about their preparations for the game and his hopes for the season, City’s debut in the Essex Alliance League (East).

The game was an entertaining spectacle with Soul FC commanding the majority of the chances in the first half. They established an early lead and City struggled to gather any real attacking momentum until the second half. Following the break, an early equaliser gave Southend the boost they needed as they settled into some good spells of movement on the ball, playing with much more confidence. However, it was Soul FC who found the back of the net for a second time in the second half before City bounced back with a headed equaliser and a second goal for an in-form Tony Cookey. A tight and fast-paced finish to a tight game ended with late drama when Soul FC were awarded a penalty in the closing stages of the game which was converted well by Luke.

After the game we caught up with L’Heureux Menga AKA “Mengs” and Tina to gather their thoughts of City’s first game and their hopes for the new season. We also spoke with Southend City striker Tony Cookie after a good performance to find out how it felt to get off to a scoring start to the season.

Hear the full interview below.

Southend City FC play their next game of the season at home to Ongar Town on Saturday 9th September, kick off 12:30 at Lakeside Sports Ground.

Southend City Radio will be providing regular updates on the team’s progress, upcoming matches, and the inspiring stories of players and fans who have found a home at the club. Stay tuned for more exciting developments as Southend City FC embarks on their first season in professional football.