Watford's Under-18s ended their season on a high with a 1-0 victory over Southend United with Alfie Young the goalscorer.

Dave Hughes’ side finish the campaign in fourth place in the Youth Alliance South East Division, though most clubs are not concerned about their final position.

Watford played 21 games – one more than some teams – something agreed at the beginning of the season.

The Hornets began well and it was Tom Rosenthal who tested Southend goalkeeper Ted Smith first with a low volley which was pushed away.

Kunle Otudeko put the ball back into the middle from the rebound, but Dennon Lewis’ effort was blocked by Ross Johnson.

Southend’s first real chance came after 30 minutes, Ellis Brown denied by Shaun Rowley after finding space between Watford’s centre-halves.

Il Myeong Choi came close with a low effort which flashed narrowly wide of Smith’s post before Rosenthal lobbed into the side netting.

Watford broke the deadlock after the restart. Young played a one-two with Otudeko before his cross fell back into his path which he guided beyond Smith.

Lewis nearly doubled the lead after an hour, directing a snap-shot over the Shrimpers’ crossbar.

Southend could have snatched a late equaliser, but for sharp reactions from Rowley, who first denied Sonny Coutts before repelling Nico Cotton’s rebound effort.

Watford Under-18s: Rowley; Young, Hall, Johnson, Doherty; Otudeko, Makaka, Stewart, Choi; Rosenthal (Folivi 64), Lewis.