Youngsters on top at Redbridge and Hannakins events

Romford Recorder: Collier Row under-nines celebrate their successCollier Row under-nines celebrate their success (Image: Archant)

Byron Red Star under-7 Eagles came out on top in their first tournament of the summer at Redbridge’s Oakside Stadium.

They won four out of five group games, with Owen Hutchinson scoring four times, while Louis King and Lennie Nicholson nabbed braces.

George London kept three clean sheets to help seal top spot and set up a final with R77, the only team to beat them in the group.

Frank Campkin and Teddy Humphries battled well in midfield to set up Leo Leborgne, who shot just wide, while great defending by William Exley kept R77 at bay.

And Byron snatched victory in the last minute as Hutchinson collected the ball on the left and played in Leborgne to slot home.

Collier Row under-nine Whites were also celebrating after winning the Hannakins festival.

Rowe remained unbeaten in five matches on the day and did not concede once to the delight of manager Colin Gilroy, who said: “I’m immensely proud of all the boys as they showed real maturity and fantastic team spirit throughout the day.”