Diminutive Bermudian striker Damon Ming took a giant step towards joining Shaun Goater at Southend, scoring on his debut for the Shrimpers reserves yesterday.

Ming, who began the season at Maidenhead United in the Conference South, went to watch Goater with national assistant coach Paul Scope when Southend beat Colchester 3-1 last week.

Discussions were had with manager Steve Tilson and Ming was offered a trial in the reserve game against Stevenage Borough.

Somerset Trojans winger Ming, who also impressed on trials with Barnet last season, slid the ball past the keeper in the second half to help the second string to a 2-0 win at Roots Hall.

The Shrimpers had been desperately trying to sign attacking players ahead of the closure last week of the transfer window and there have been attempts to bring players in on loan.

Ming, whose first name was incorrectly spelt as ‘Damien' on the Southend official site yesterday, was impressive in the comfortable victory although it is far too early to say whether he will be given another shot at joining Goater in Essex.