JASON Williams bagged a hat-trick to fire Southend United’s under 18 side to a 3-2 victory against Stevenage on the opening day of the new League Youth Alliance South East Conference season.

The powerful forward had scored three times in five games during pre-season.

And boss Ricky Duncan was full of praise for his performance.

“Jason really pushed on in pre-season and he was on fire on Saturday,” said Duncan.

“He scored three goals and hit the bar twice so he’s certainly someone who is catching the eye at the moment.

“He was actually recommended to us by Lyle Della Verde before he left to join Fulham and he’s really starting to do well so we’re delighted with him.”

Williams’ first goal came in the 18th minute when he reacted quickly to fire home after Freddie Gard’s 25 yard shot was tipped on to the post.

But Stevenage equalised three minutes before the break when a mesmerising run down the right channel culminated in their forward firing home.

The two teams were not level for long though as Blues went back in front two minutes in to the second half when a stray pass from a visiting defender enabled Williams to convert clinically.

The striker then headed against crossbar before completing his hat-trick in the 65th minute.

There initially seemed little danger when Williams picked up the ball but he outpaced an opponent before cutting inside and smashing a left footed shot from long range in to the top left hand corner of the net.

Stevenage continued to battle and, with 10 minutes remaining, they got back in to the game when an inswinging corner sailed over goalkeeper Ted Smith and in to the top corner.

But Blues were able to hang on to secure all three points and they will now be hoping for more of the same on Saturday when they travel to Peterborough United.

Southend: Smith, Jordan Williams (Apenteng 77), Farrell, King, Johnson, Matsuzaka, Scott (Keaton 90), Barlow, Jason Williams, Norman, Cotton (Adeyeye 85) Subs not used: Ademuliyi & Snook.