SOUTHEND United substitute Matt Paterson netted a late equaliser to deny Salisbury City victory in their pre-season friendly at the Ray Mac on Friday evening.

A stunning strike by Ben Adelsbury just before the break put the hosts in front against the Npower League Two side.

City triallist Tom Dunford rattled the crossbar early in the second half.

Whites threatened a number of times to double their advantage, but Paterson was gifted the opportunity to level on 83 minutes when Salisbury failed to clear a United cross.

Full report and reaction to follow...

Welcome back. City caretaker boss Mikey Harris greets former manager Tommy Widdrington.

Whites triallist Daryl McLean.

Bradley Gray puts the Southend defence under pressure.

Former City player Sean Clohessy keeps a close eye on Whites triallist Kayne McLaggon. 

Heads up.

Patrick Cox keeps his eye on the ball as he attempts to thwart a Southend attack.

Half-time update

A WONDER strike by Ben Adelsbury has given Salisbury City a 1-0 half-time lead in this evening's friendly at home to Southend United.

The City player struck the ball sweetly from fully 35 yards out giving United custodian Glen Morris no chance.

Whites triallists Kayne McLaggon and Daryl McLean had combined well in the build-up, but Southend cleared the ball only as far as Adelsbury, who found the net with his trademark rocket.

Former boss Tommy Widdrington received a warm welcome as he headed to the visitors' dug out.

Full report and reaction to follow.

Half-time: SALISBURY CITY 1 SOUTHEND UTD 0

Photos by DENIS MURPHY/Sport4Salisbury Not to be reproduced without permission