MATT Rush bagged a hat-trick as Southend United’s under 23 side triumphed 5-1 at Harlow Town tonight.

The 18-year-old striker, who was on loan at Harlow earlier on this season, fired home a trio of fine finishes.

But Blues coach Craig Fagan was keen to praise the whole team’s performance.

“Rushy did well getting the hat-trick but everyone played well and it was a good performance from the whole team,” said Fagan.

“It was important to get a game in and for the youngsters to keep on learning.

“Eren (Kinali), Hutch (Isaac Hutchinson, Rushy and Emile (Acquah) needed the game and I thought we played some good stuff.

“Richard Taylor made good decisions at the back as well and I was pleased with how everyone played.”

Hutchinson and Acquah were also on target for Blues.

Southend United: Seaden, Howard, Osimeh (Biler 85), Stewart, Pianim (Wallace 79( R Taylor, Hutchinson (Unwin 74), O Coker, Acquah, Rush (Eastwood 74), Kinali (Brogan 46)