Develop 2 Frenford 1 (Echo League Cup U13): It was a very big day in the history of Develop football club.

The team approached the Echo League Cup final as underdogs having lost to league champions, Frenford, twice already this season.

The game got under way with Frenford in typical fashion taking an early lead with an opportunistic goal.

But going a goal down seemed to spark the Develop team into action and it was not long before they were back on level terms with a typically strong challenge and an equally strong run from Marcus Fraser who drilled the ball into the back of the net.

Develop now had their tails up and were applying more and more pressure on the Frenford goal.

Just ten minutes before half time, skilful ball play from Ashley Farrer saw him slide the ball through the defender's legs before chipping across the face of the goal for Neal Morse to neatly volley home from close range. The second half was a fraught affair with the two sides pulling out all the stops to claim the prize.

Both continued to play good football with the Develop team standing strong in defence and playing some fine interchanging passing in midfield. Although there were chances at either end the score remained 2-1 until the final whistle.

This game was a wonderful advert for junior football with both teams playing the game in the right spirit. Develop, based in Loughton, have come a long way in just three seasons and the club thanked all players and parents for their commitment and support.

Plans are now going ahead to increase the existing eight teams to 12 next season and they will subsequently be attracting more players in all age groups from U7 toU15.

Players who are looking to play in a competitive environment, with excellent coaching, should contact Gary on 07956 589916.