The Academy’s Elite squad’s winning run finally came to an end at Church Road with the hosts, Whyteleafe, who maintain their own unbeaten status, running out 3-1 winners. Whyteleafe went ahead after just five minutes with a header into the bottom corner. Parity was quickly restored with a goal from Aidan Murphy two minutes later, but just before the break another header put the home side back in front. A early second half goal left the Angels with a deficit which they were unable to claw back. This was a weak and timid performance against a very strong and technically gifted Whyteleafe side, who now proceed with a FA Youth Cup tie at Wigan Athletic. They are the best team we have faced this season and well deserved their victory.

Dominic Welsh’s Development One squad produced a fantastic comeback to win at Maplestone Noakes against Soccer Elite. This was our best performance of the season against the league leaders. After going 2-0 down, we clawed it back to 2-2 with goals from Angus Fife and Dan Vitler, but fell behind again before half-time. Two second half goals from a Soccer Elite own goal and a winner from Tyler Richardson, a free kick from the half-way line, who produced a man of the match performance on his return to the side after a long lay-off. 

Development squad Two went down at league leaders North Kent College. It was a disappointing performance from Rhys Bartlett’s squad who knew they were going to be in for a tough game but lacked the self belief, especially in the first half, to make a contest of the match. Rhys’ side has made massive strides in the couple of months since the season’s start but they have to stop beating themselves in their own minds before the game starts.

Off the pitch, we will be announcing the trial dates in the next few days for next season’s intake, so keep an eye on social media to give yourself the opportunity to join our successful Academy.

That’s it for this week. Next week the Elite squad have no game but Development One have a Cup Semi-final against Dover Athletic at King’s Hill, kickoff 12 midday.