GOALS from Kenzer Lee and Josh Shama earned Oxford United a 2-2 draw against Southend in a development game yesterday.

The U’s, whose starting line-up included two unnamed triallists, twice fought back to get on level terms in their first home game of the season.

They fell behind on 11 minutes when the visitors struck through a triallist, who bundled in at a corner.

United quickly responded and levelled with their next attack. Josh Ashby swung in a free-kick which was headed in by Lee.

Jack Payne restored Southend’s lead from the penalty spot in the 20th minute and they were still in front at half-time.

But Shama ensured the U’s avoided defeat for the first time after two away defeats at Birmingham and Bournemouth.

The forward, signed from Reading in the summer, ran on to a through ball from Josh Ruffels to equalise just after the hour mark.

Mickey Lewis, United’s assistant manager, said: “It was a fantastic test for the boys to play against some lads there who have played in Southend’s first team.”