ROMFORD TOWN U8s BRING IT HOME
U8s Crowned Echo Festival Cup Champions After Thrilling 6–3 Victory
The U8s delivered a commanding and spirited performance to claim the Echo Festival Cup, defeating a strong Hornchurch side 6–3 in a match full of excitement, skill, and teamwork from every player on the pitch.
The tone was set early by Alexander Lliev, who opened the scoring with a stunning solo run, weaving through defenders before coolly finishing. His confidence and sharp eye for goal continued to shine as he netted a brilliant free kick for the second and slotted home a clinical penalty to complete a remarkable first-half hat-trick.
While the goals lit up the scoreboard, it was the collective team effort that truly stood out. Ronny Burke was a pillar in defence throughout the game, reading the play expertly and making vital interceptions. Behind him, Alban Arizi produced a series of outstanding saves in both halves — calm under pressure and quick off his line, his heroics kept Hornchurch at bay during key moments.
In midfield, Nikita Backans was tireless, bringing relentless energy across the pitch, pressing, supporting the attack, and tracking back when needed. His work rate helped keep the team’s tempo high and their structure solid.
Bobby Hatton had a splendid first half, putting in crunching tackles and winning possession in key areas, setting the tone with his aggressive yet composed play. Equally important was Johnny Blaize Mwenda, whose last-ditch tackles and powerful drives forward helped break up Hornchurch’s rhythm and turn defence into attack.
Hornchurch responded with a goal to bring it to 3–1, but Aaron Kyei answered with a spectacular free kick screamer that flew into the top corner. Though Hornchurch pulled another back, narrowing the score to 4–2, the U8s never lost control.
Xavier showed fantastic positional awareness, always in the right place at the right time, and contributing with solid defending to shut down potential threats. As Hornchurch pushed for a late comeback, Bryden Varela came on and played a crucial role in helping the team hold onto their lead, showing maturity and discipline in his defensive duties.
The final moments were sealed in style as Kyei stepped up again with a second set-piece goal, putting the game out of reach and capping off a thrilling 6–3 victory.
Every player played their part in a truly memorable team performance, blending skill, determination, and unity to lift the Echo Festival Cup. From attacking flair to defensive grit, it was a showcase of talent and teamwork that reflects the bright future of this exceptional group.
Congratulations to the entire U8s squad, coaches, and supporters — Echo Festival Cup Champions!
ROMFORD TOWN FLYERS GOLD U8 SQUAD:
Alexander Lliev, Aaron Kyei, Nikita Backans, Bobby Hatton, Johnny Blaise Mwenda, Xavier Auckbaraullee, Ronny Burke, Bryden Varela, Alaban Arizi
COACHES:
Gareth Jones, Lee Hatton, Alan Smeraldi