Torquay United v Southend United, 19 August 2000

Southend took the early initiative in this battle of the seaside towns. The visitors from Essex took route one to take the lead. Keeper Andy Woodman's clearance forced a misjudged header from Gull defender Paul Holmes. Scott Houghton provided the assured finish from ten yards. The Shrimpers should have doubled their advantage on 12 minutes when referee Warren pointed to the spot after Stuart Jones upended Martin Carruthers. The home goalie redeemed himself by palming away Carruthers well struck kick. Torquay's hopes suffered a further blow when new French striker Habib Sissoko failed to re-appear after the interval due to a hamstring injury. Undaunted, the Gulls produced a much better performance in the second half. They gained confidence from their equaliser - Kevin Hill on hand after Tom Stocco's shot was blocked by David Morley. Southend missed further chances so the first draw was recorded between the two teams since December 1984. As well as being disappointed on missing out on two extra points, manager Alan Little also made an official complaint about the state of the Plainmoor pitch.