Match report: Southend United 0 - 1 Huddersfield Town

Dec 15 2008 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Roberts curled a shot over soon after, then Robbie Williams’ low drive was well held by keeper Steve Mildenhall, who palmed away a tricky 33rd-minute floater from the same Town player.

Town had an escape when former Barnsley man Betsy headed over from Dan Harding’s well-placed 48th-minute cross, and within 30 seconds, the 367 visiting fans in an 8,382 crowd were celebrating.

As Town counter-attacked, Michael Collins broke down the left and seeing gold shirts streaming forward, picked out Craney, who had the simple task of converting his sixth goal of the season for Town and eighth in all (he netted twice for Accrington before his transfer).

The lead was no more than Town deserved, but it fired Steve Tilson’s side into life.

Smithies smothered a 30-yard free-kick from West Ham loanee Junior Stanislas in the 55th minute.

Then there was a let-off as Laurent was off target when Francis crossed.

Butler’s block frustrated Laurent, then Stanislas miscued after being set up by substitute Dougie Freedman.