SOUTH Essex Colleges Group have won the National Under 19 Alliance League for the second season in succession.

Playing under the West Ham United foundation name, the team ended the season with the best defensive and attacking records.

Managed by Southend United legend Steve Tilson, the youngsters conceded just 25 goals and scored 62 at the other end of the pitch.

And Tilson, head of football academy, sport, public services and science at the college, was quick to praise his team.

“It is a fantastic achievement to win the league two years on the trot and is the first time that the college has achieved this accolade,” said Tilson.

“I am so proud of the group and it would be an even greater achievement to see if we could continue our success by winning a hat trick of titles next year.”

The team beat Chelmsford on goal difference after both sides finished on 39 points.

Taylor Ansell Quinton excelled by scoring 25 goals in 17 matches while captain Alfie Gladwin, who netted 20 times in 17 appearances, is already eyeing up more success.

He said: “Winning the league is a fantastic achievement.

“We have had to dig in and work hard to get us to the point where we can challenge for those titles and it is a credit to the players and staff.

“The commitment they have shown week in, week out is incredible and now we can celebrate.

“I am so proud of the boys.”