Ryan Charles scored twice as Luton's youth side kicked of their season with a 3-3 draw against Southend United.

The Luton striker, who has been in impressive form during pre-season, scored either side of an Ashley Harrison-Barker strike.

The game also saw Under-16's goalkeeper, Aaron Fletcher make his debut for the Hatters.

Charles got Luton off to the perfect start when he struck home from ten-yards before Harrison-Barker extended the advantage midway through the first-half.

But Southend refused to let their heads drop and were back on level terms before the half-time interval.

Charles scored his second of the afternoon in the second-half when a pass from Jake Howells allowed him to tap the ball into the net.

Luton thought they had done enough to win the game but Shrimpers striker James Lindie found a way through in the final minute.

Speaking after the game boss Chris Cummins said: "I thought generally there was a progression from most of the players. I was pleased with the performance and I though the boys played very well."