Watford Under-18s drew 2-2 with Southend United this afternoon in their fifth game in 12 days.

Michael Folivi scored his 28th goal of the season with a powerful strike to put the Hornets in front at Southend.

Goals from Freddie Gard and Brandon Scott gave The Shrimpers the lead before substitute Dennon Lewis' deflected long-range effort secured a point.

The draw came after consecutive defeats for the Golden Boys, who lost 1-0 to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday and 4-3 to Stevenage two days before.

The Hornets named a young side against The Dons at the weekend, with a 14-year-old and a few 15-year-olds included in the squad, as an own-goal settled the game.

The Thursday before, Watford let a two-goal lead slip to lose against Stevenage.

The Hornets led at half time after Alfie Young smashed home after Lewis had been denied.

Stevenage levelled two minutes after the restart through Ben Kennedy but Watford quickly responded and goals from Andrew Eleftheriou and Lewis put the Hornets in control.

Boro railed, however, and Dale Goreman reduced the deficit from the penalty spot before Kennedy equalised after converting a low cross.

Watford had been on the back foot for the final ten minutes and they were unable to hold out for a draw as George Casey touched in from close range.