LAWFORD'S under-18s have been crowned Colchester and District Youth League champions.

After losing only one of their 16 league games, the team finished as top dogs in division A.

With a final tally of 41 points, they headed off strong challenges from Frinton and Walton and Halstead Town, both of whom finished on 38 points.

Manager John Duchars said: “I'm so pleased for all the players.

"They demonstrated tremendous commitment and hard work throughout the season and the whole squad played their part in this success.

"What a way to end your youth football experience.”

Captain Harry Carmichael added: "The success was built from the back.

"In our first three league games, we conceded seven goals, but we went on to only concede nine goals all season and kept 11 clean sheets.

"They were so solid after those initial games and it gave everyone confidence. "The team got stronger in midfield and in attack because of it.

"Of course, 39 goals from Christian Rayner also helped.”

It is the second consecutive year Lawford under-18s have topped the league’s division A.

Lawford Lads and Lawford Junior came together in 2015 to form one club, Lawford Football Club.

They are based in School Lane.