Daniel Marney fired four goals as Albion defeated Southend 5-2 in the Youth Alliance at Sussex University at Falmer yesterday.

Marney has missed much of the season through injury and postponed matches.

Seagulls youth manager Dean Wilkins said: "It's good for him to get a few after so long on the sidelines.

"But I was pleased with everyone. They showed a great attitude and tried to play good football on a heavy and bobbly pitch. It's a relief to be able to play a match after missing so many."

Marney put Albion ahead midway through the first half with a solo effort. Southend levelled just before the interval but then Seagulls took charge.

Marney combined with Stefan Wojciechowski for his second and kept his cool to net number three from a twice-taken penalty after Chris McPhee was fouled.

He completed his quartet with an eight-yard drive before Wojciechowski drove home the fifth. Southend hit a late consolation goal.

Albion are at Portsmouth in the Youth Alliance Cup on Saturday.

Albion v Southend: Steven Ades, Adam Davis (sub: Nicky Bridle), Mark Jackson (Adam Hinshelwood), Daniel Harding, Kevin Hemsley, Andy Beech, Rupert Sansom (sub: Chris Greatwich), Conor McCurdy, Daniel Marney, Chris McPhee, Stefan Wojciechowksi.

ALBION MODIFY SHIRTS Albion are modifying the design of the new home shirts marking their centenary.

The players' names were not visible to spectators when they wore the strip for the first time against Southend on Monday.

Chief executive Martin Perry explained: "We have to use standard lettering and there are two types.

"The one with a key line around it looked okay in the office, but the names are not readable from a distance and we will sort that out."

NO GO FOR DEFENDER Boss Micky Adams has denied Albion are signing out-of-favour Portsmouth leftback David Birmingham.

"He is somebody we are keeping an eye on, but we have no plans to sign him," Adams said.

Birmingham, 20, is currently on loan to Bognor for the second time with older brother Michael.

NO NEED TO WORRY The Seagulls refuse to be cornered by Martin Carruthers' breakaway goal for Southend on Monday.

Skipper Paul Rogers said: "We have defended two v two from corners in every single game this season and occasionally you are going to get caught out.

"It is not something we are going to worry about by starting to put three or four players back when we have attacking set pieces."

ALL TICKET Albion's visit to League newcomers Kidderminster Harriers on Saturday week is all-ticket for Seagulls supporters. Only terrace tickets are available, priced £9 adults and £6 concessions.

They are on sale to season ticket holders in the away membership scheme today (Thursday) and to non-season ticket holders in the scheme tomorrow from 10am. Tickets are limited to one per member