GLENN Pennyfather heaped praise on his players after guiding the West Ham United/Woodlands Foundation team to glory in their first season.

The youngsters - who play and study at the Basildon school - won the National Football Youth League South Central Division by an impressive 11 points.

And former Southend United midfielder Pennyfather was thrilled by the success.

“It’s a fantastic achievement to have won the league in our first season and the boys have all been brilliant,” said Pennyfather.

“They came in from schoolboy and Sunday League football and were quite raw to begin with.

“I know myself that it’s tough when you step up to full time training but they dealt with it well and the progression has been fantastic.

“We knew they always had the natural ability and it’s been a great season.”

The team - who are aged between 16 and 19 - won 18 of their 22 games, scoring 82 goals and conceding just 19.

And the youngsters were rewarded for their efforts by attending the Hammers’ end of season clash against Manchester United in the Premier League.

“It was a great experience for the team to be ball-boys for that game and to see that kind of quality up close,” said Pennyfather.

“It was a great way for us all to end what was a memorable season.”

Swindon Town finished as runners up in a table which also contained Chelsea and Queens Park Rangers.

But Pennyfather is expecting things to be even tougher next season.

“We think things are going to be revamped next season and that we are likely to be heading into the Premier League,” said Pennyfather.

“Reading won it last season and teams like Tottenham Hotspur are in it as well so it’s a good level.

“You have shadow academies playing in that league and a number of good teams so there would be a lot of tough games.

“But if that’s where we’re going then it would be a good games programme for the players and one we would look forward to.

“However, we will keep working hard and make sure that we are as well prepared as possible for whatever will be coming our way.”

The group of talented youngsters combine their football training and matches with their studies at the Basildon school, something which Pennyfather is also on charge of.

“It’s certainly an enjoyable role,” he added.