Chris Hackett strike seals Northampton Town win

Northampton Town have defeated Southend United 2-1 in this evening's League Two clash at Sixfields.

The Cobblers took the lead in the first seven minutes of the match when Matthias Kouo-Doumbe rose above the defenders in the Shrimpers box to strike a header from close range.

Despite the home side being dominant for a period of time after the goal, Southend did show signs of improvement by the quarter-hour mark, Anthony Straker lashing a dangerous cross into the Northampton area which was eventually cleared.

The visitors eventually pulled a goal back midway through the first half when Marc Laird sent a pass through to Michael Timlin, who then proceeded to strike a precise ball into the Cobblers goal.

With 10 minutes to go in the first period, Barry Corr had a chance from 12 yards out at an angle, but Matt Duke was able to save with relative ease.

Just before the hour, Emile Sinclair burst through the Southend defence before cutting the ball back for Chris Hackett, who had the simple task of firing home from a short distance.

A few minutes later, the Cobblers thought that they had extended their lead, but Hackett's header was judged to be offside.