Hotshots on a roll: Haverstock School get ready for their finals

Published: 19 February, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

TWO of the most prestigious trophies in youth football could be heading to Camden as teams from Haverstock School and Kentish Town FC both prepare for the biggest games in their history. 

The Under-14s boys team from Haverstock are just one win away from being crowned national champions after booking a place in the final of the English Schools Football Association Cup. 

Meanwhile, Kentish Town’s Under-11s are hoping they will become the new kings of the capital after making the final of the London FA Cup. 

Haverstock sealed their place in the elite showpiece on Thursday when they beat current champions Downend School in their own backyard, running out 3-1 winners at the AJN stadium in Bristol. 

Downend raced into a 1-0 lead, which they protected until half-time. But, in a stunning second half showing, the boys from Haverstock School in Chalk Farm turned the game around to earn a historic victory thanks to goals from captain Frankie McCarthy, Bailey Johnston and Charlie Clarke. 

Now counting down the day until the final, PE teacher Jamie Histed, who runs the team with colleague Matthew Miller, said: “It is an absolute honour to work with such an amazing group of boys. 

Hotshots on a roll: Kentish Town FC get ready for their finals

“They’re such a determined bunch, who put in the hard work needed to achieve their goals and potential.” 

Kentish Town’s triumphant team were also celebrating following their semi-final win over Independent FC in the London FA Cup. 

Reece McCluskey opened the scoring before Patrick Morley scored the goal-of-the-game with a 25-yard screamer.

Solly Hamilton also got on the scoresheet to wrap up a resounding 3-0 victory, and set up a final against either Edmonton Youth or Clapham Rangers next month. 

Manager TJ O’Leary, who also coaches Chelsea Ladies, said he couldn’t be happier after seeing his side earn a deserved place in the final.

“I’m very proud of all the boys. The toughest thing for me was choosing which 10 players from the group to leave out of the semi-final. 

“We’ve got such a strong squad, and obviously we couldn’t play everyone. 

“This team has now remained unbeaten for over two years, so expectations were high. They have delivered time and time again. 

“They are a great bunch of players to work with and I love every training session. 

“Everyone at the club is looking forward to the boys’ showcasing their talent in the final. I will be proud of them whatever the outcome is.”