Abbey boys clinch Essex U19 Open Cup

A superb team performance allows team Abbey to be crowned Essex Open Cup Champions.

A tough game was anticipated against a strong SEC college who club partnership with semi-professional side Concord Rangers.

However, Abbey started brightly and took the lead in the 22nd minute when Andre Anderson calmly volleyed home from close range. SEC College responded quickly and forced Abbey keeper Kymani Nelson into two great saves, first save saw Nelson palm  away a fierce drive, the second Nelson  stood up well to save with his legs.

Unfortunately, a severe shoulder injury in the 40th minute saw Andre Anderson leave the field of play and was replaced by Mekhi Stanford-Clarke. Stanford -Clarke had an immediate impact, before helping himself to a brace of goals. Abbey then took total control of the game allowing Peter Angelov to kill of the game with a mazy run that saw him beat 2 players before calmly slotting home to make it 4-0. Late substitute Izac Clarke made it 5-0 with an excellent finish from a tight angle.

Football Academy Director Carl Emberson

“The boys have been fantastic all year they have been so consistent with their performances. They have dominated 95 percent of the matches they have played in this season. They have made a National Super Cup Semi-final and Two Essex schools and Colleges Cup finals! I am so proud of their achievements. This trophy was the reward for all their hard work, commitment and dedication.”