CHARLIE Kelman’s heart sunk before securing Southend United a late share of the spoils at AFC Wimbledon this afternoon.

Kelman bagged an injury time equaliser from the penalty spot as Blues bagged a 1-1 draw at the Dons.

But the Basildon born 18-year-old initially feared he had missed the first spot-kick of his career.

“I’ve never missed a penalty in my life so touch wood that carries on but my heart did sink when I saw the keeper got a touch,” said Kelman.

“I’ve been penalty taker in every team I’ve played in apart from the 23s and the first team and I was just so glad to see it go in.”

“There was a lot on pressure but I had to be confident.

“JD (Jason Demetriou) wasn’t on the pitch so I picked up the ball and knew I had to put it home so I was glad to see it hit the back of the net.”

Kelman also won the penalty he converted after being brought down by Ryan Delaney.

And the striker knew the Dons defender was starting to tire.

“I knew contact was coming,” said Kelman.

“He was tired and he was telling the other defenders to protect him. “I knew he was going to make contact so I flicked the ball over him and maybe made a meal of it.”

Kelman’s goal came in just his second game back from an ankle injury which kept him sidelined for two months.

And the striker is thrilled to be back in action.

“It’s good to be able to contribute again because it was tough being out and seeing the lads getting the same results,” said Kelman.

“They’ve been putting the work in in training but it’s a good feeling to be back.

“I’m getting there fitness wise too.

“They’re letting me find my feet but hopefully I’m in contention to start now.”

The draw saw the Shrimpers stay second from bottom in the League One standings.

But Kelman is confident things will soon start to change.

“One day our luck will change and we have to keep pushing to make sure it’s the next game,” said Kelman.

“In the second half we showed what we can do and that we can win games which is obviously what we need to do to stay up.”

Blues will now have to wait until January 11 until returning to action against Tranmere Rovers.

But Kelman may still have a game this weekend.

“I might play for the youth team on Saturday to get some minutes in because I need the games,” he added.