Des Casey (back row, right) and his winning Regent’s FC’s squad: Jon Jon Sexton, Michael Johnson, Charlie Kinaris, Tony Dowsett, Glen McSherry, Naim Essaghi, Karim Essaghi, Jason Perdicou, Danny Glaude, Jake King, Gio Falzone, Riki Loucas, Alfie Rogers, James Noonan, Robbie O’Brien, Anthony Clarke, George Badman and sponsor Peter Lambrou (front, right). 

Published: 6 June, 2014

IT’S definitely been a season of two halves for players from Regent’s FC. 

On the plus side, the triumphant team won the Premier Division of the Islington Midweek League without losing a single game, winning 14 and drawing two of their 16 outings at Market Road.

In doing so Des Casey’s side becomes only the third team in the league’s history to finish a campaign without tasting defeat. But Regent’s 17-strong squad might just find themselves spending the summer wondering about what might have been after losing four out of four cup finals. 

“We played a lot of games this season and in the end fatigue and injuries caught up with us,” said Des. “We actually went 30 games undefeated, but we lost the final four and right now they’re the ones that we all remember because they were cup finals.” 

With the club having to fork out £120 a game, Des added that he didn’t think it was a coincidence that Regent’s celebrated the most successful season in their five-year history after signing up “a diamond” sponsor. 

“Peter Lambrou, who owns a property development shop in Kentish Town, bought us two new kits and paid all our league fees. 

“That makes a real difference because the players can step out onto the pitch and just think about their performance, instead of worrying about what they have to pay.” 

Des said his players will now enjoy the summer off watching the World Cup, before coming back next season even hungrier for success.

“It’s a privilege to manage such a fantastic bunch of players. 

They’ve earned some time off, but, in truth, have already set their sights on successfully defending their crown,” he added.