SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, England (April 3, 2026) (Interstat) — Southend United opened its National League season with a 3-2 comeback victory over Braintree Town at Roots Hall Stadium on Friday. Andrew Dallas scored twice in the first half to give the hosts a 2-0 lead. Braintree responded after the break with goals from Oliver Coker and substitute Ryan Battrum to level the score. Southend substitute Sahid Kamara netted the decisive goal in the 83rd minute to secure the win. The result defied a pre-match statistical projection of a draw, as Southend began its campaign with a win while Braintree started with a loss.