GREAT Wakering Rovers Colts Green’s Under-12s have been crowned champions of Division A of the Southend & District Junior Alliance league.

They secured it with a thumping 5-1 victory over Hawkwell Athletic Eagles, meaning they can no longer be overturned at the top of the standings.

Wakering have won 13 of their 14 games this season, conceding just three goals along the way and have been a cut above the rest since the season began.

Wakering first-team manager Gary Ansell and striker Jay Nash were in attendance and Ansell said he was hugely impressed with the ‘remarkable’ young side.

“It is great to see football played in the correct manner and the boys have had a remarkable season,” he said. “To only concede three league goals at any level of football is incredible. It’s great to keep an eye on the younger teams that are linked with the Rovers Alliance and hopefully, in years to come, we can see some of them progress to the U18's, U21's and the first team. Well done to the boys.”

John Galley, manager of the U12's added: “It’s really good to have the backing of a club like Great Wakering Rovers and for people like Gary and Jay to give up their own time to come and keep an eye on our team.

“The boys really enjoyed it and the advice the two give is invaluable and they always take it on board."