WEST HAM UNITED
FOOTBALL PROGRAMMES &
Collectables through the Decades
theyflysohigh : Steve Marsh
A Pictorial History
2000-01 FA Premier Youth Academy Under-17
Manager: Peter Brabrook
West Ham United will compete in Group D "South" with Bristol City, Southampton, Reading, Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Fulham, and Wimbledon. Fixtures are played home and away basis, a further 8 games against teams competing in the other southern group, plus a further 2 games from the Northern Group making a total of 24 matches. Winners of each group will progress to the Academy League Play-off's.
LIVERPOOL
Anfield
2 - 0 (McMahon D., Ritchie)
30 August 2000
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Khan
Ward
Johnson
Ritchie
Cascione
Mehmet
McMahon D.
Eastwood
West Ham United’s Under-17s launched their FA Premier Youth Academy campaign in impressive fashion with a polished and commanding display at Liverpool. The young Hammers made a blistering start and could easily have been out of sight before the interval, with both Freddy Eastwood and Glen Johnson denied only by the woodwork during an exhilarating opening spell in which the visitors carved out the clearer opportunities.
Despite their dominance, West Ham had to wait until the closing moments of the first half to gain the reward their performance deserved. With just a minute remaining before the break, Darryl McMahon took aim from distance and fired a superb left-footed drive beyond the Liverpool goalkeeper to hand the visitors a fully merited lead.
The Hammers returned after the interval with even greater purpose, raising the tempo and taking firm control of proceedings. Their superiority was reflected in a decisive second goal on 57 minutes when Billy Mehmet delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area, allowing Niall Ritchie the simplest of finishes as he tapped home from close range.
NOTTINGHAM FOREST
Ship Lane, Purfleet
1 - 4 (Mehmet)
2 September 2000
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Khan
Fletcher
Tattam
Akinsete
Saunders
Mehmet
Eastwood
Benmona
West Ham United’s Under-17s produced a battling display despite being severely weakened by illness and injury, only to see the game slip away in the closing stages of this FA Premier Youth Academy League encounter at Purfleet.
Fielding a makeshift side, the young Hammers showed tremendous determination and refused to be overwhelmed after falling behind to a first-half Nottingham Forest goal. Their resilience was rewarded 13 minutes from time when Billy Mehmet produced a moment of real quality, coolly lifting an exquisite 18-yard lob over the advancing goalkeeper to draw West Ham level.
With the match finely balanced entering the final minutes, the depleted Hammers looked capable of securing a hard-earned point. However, their efforts eventually took their toll as Forest capitalised late on, striking three times in the closing stages to give the scoreline a harsher appearance than West Ham’s performance deserved.
For much of the contest the injury-hit visitors had matched their opponents through sheer commitment and spirit, but a cruel late collapse denied them the reward their courageous display had threatened to earn.
WATFORD
London Colney
2 - 2 (McManhon D., Mehmet)
9 September 2000
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Khan
Ward
Tattam
Akinsete (Lumsden)
Cascione
Mehmet
McMahon D.
Eastwood (Deen)
West Ham United's Under-17s secured a richly deserved point in an entertaining FA Premier Youth Academy League clash against Watford at London Colney, with Darryl McMahon's dramatic late strike ensuring the spoils were shared.
The young Hammers made the brighter start and were rewarded after just seven minutes. Manny Cascione's dangerous delivery into the Watford penalty area caused confusion in the home defence, and when the ball was only partially cleared, Billy Mehmet reacted quickest to drive home the loose ball and give West Ham an early advantage.
The lead proved short-lived, however, as Watford responded almost immediately. A lapse in the Hammers defence allowed Blizzard a clear run on goal, and he made no mistake in firing past Glen Jackson to bring the hosts level.
West Ham continued to threaten after the interval and should have restored their lead when Mehmet found himself with a golden opportunity from close range, only to send his effort over the crossbar from four yards out. The miss proved costly as Watford edged in front when Anthony Dean conceded a free-kick on the right flank. From the resulting delivery, substitute Newing escaped his marker to plant a low header beyond Jackson.
With time running out, the Hammers refused to give in and were rewarded for their persistence just two minutes from the end. Cascione rose superbly above the Watford defence to head the ball back across goal, where McMahon arrived to crash home the equaliser and spark celebrations among the visiting side.
IPSWICH TOWN
Ship Lane, Purfleet
0 - 1
16 September 2000
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Khan
Ward
Tattam (Dean)
Allen
Ritchie
Mehmet
Cascione
Eastwood (Ajinsette)
West Ham United's Under-17s turned in a disappointing display as Ipswich Town claimed a deserved victory after proving the sharper and more purposeful side throughout.
The visitors settled quickly and took control of the contest, opening the scoring after 13 minutes following a bright start. Ipswich's movement and attacking intent continually posed problems for the Hammers, who struggled to find their usual rhythm during a difficult first half.
The Suffolk side should have doubled their advantage just before the interval. A deep cross from the left was met at the far post and the ball appeared destined for the net, only for Glen Jackson to produce a superb point-blank save that kept West Ham within touching distance.
The Hammers emerged with greater urgency after the break and finally began to exert some pressure of their own. Freddy Eastwood and Billy Mehmet both came close as West Ham searched for a route back into the match, but clear-cut opportunities remained at a premium.
Ipswich almost settled the outcome with ten minutes remaining when another dangerous cross from the right found an unmarked player at the far post, but he headed wide with the goal at his mercy. That miss gave the Hammers hope, and they nearly snatched an equaliser late on when James Allen picked out Mehmet, only for the striker to steer his effort over the crossbar.
COVENTRY CITY
Sky Blue Lodge
3 - 0 (Eastwood 2, Allen)
23 September 2000
Jackson
Akinsette
Dean
Metitri
Khan
Tattam
Allen
Ritchie (Dean)
Mehmet (Saunders)
Cascione
Eastwood (Ajinsette)
West Ham United's Under-17s produced a polished attacking display to secure a convincing victory over Coventry, with Freddy Eastwood's two-goal contribution laying the foundations for success.
The breakthrough arrived just a minute before half-time and was worthy of opening the scoring. Eastwood met the ball just inside the penalty area and unleashed a superb volley that flew beyond the goalkeeper, giving the Hammers a deserved advantage heading into the interval.
West Ham continued to dictate proceedings after the break and doubled their lead midway through the second half. Manny Cascione curled a dangerous free-kick around the Coventry wall, and Eastwood reacted quickest to the delivery, racing in to apply the finishing touch from close range for his second goal of the afternoon.
The contest was effectively settled just two minutes later as the Hammers produced the move of the match. A flowing seven-man passing move carved open the Coventry defence before James Allen applied the finishing touch, capping a superb team goal that underlined West Ham's growing dominance.
With Eastwood clinical in front of goal and the side combining impressively as an attacking unit, it was a performance full of confidence and quality from the young Hammers, who rarely allowed Coventry a route back into the game once they had established their advantage.
BIRMINGHAM CITY
Ship Lane, Purfleet
3 - 0 (Eastwood, Ritchie, Saunders)
29 September 2000
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Khan
Ward (Allen)
Tattam
Saunders
Ritchie
Mehmet
Cascione (Dean)
Eastwood (Ajinsette)
West Ham United's Under-17s continued their impressive form with a convincing victory, inspired by an early attacking burst that left their opponents chasing the game from the outset.
Freddy Eastwood maintained his rich vein of form by opening the scoring after just ten minutes, netting his third goal in two matches to give the young Hammers the perfect start. West Ham's confidence grew with the breakthrough and, ten minutes later, Craig Saunders produced the moment of the match, expertly spotting the goalkeeper off his line before lofting a superb 25-yard chip into the net to double the advantage.
The Hammers carried their momentum into the second half and effectively put the contest beyond doubt just three minutes after the restart. Midfielder Niall Ritchie joined the scoresheet, driving home from just inside the penalty area to cap another well-worked attacking move and extend West Ham's lead to three goals.
With Eastwood once again leading the charge and contributions coming from across the side, the young Hammers delivered a polished and controlled performance, rarely looking troubled as they secured another highly impressive victory.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Ship Lane, Purfleet
4 - 1 (Eastwood 2, Cascione, Mehmet)
6 October 2000
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Khan
Ward
Tattam
Allen
Ritchie (Saunders)
Mehmet
Cascione
Eastwood
West Ham United's Under-17s continued their fine run of form with an impressive victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Purfleet, watched by first-team manager Harry Redknapp, who would have been encouraged by the quality on display from the Academy prospects.
The Hammers made a dream start, taking the lead inside the opening minute when the in-form Freddy Eastwood collected the ball 15 yards from goal and drilled a precise finish beyond the goalkeeper. It was another demonstration of the striker's growing confidence and predatory instincts in front of goal.
West Ham doubled their advantage after just ten minutes, and in spectacular fashion. Manny Cascione let fly from 30 yards and his superb effort flew past the helpless Spurs goalkeeper to leave the home side firmly in command.
Tottenham reduced the arrears on 55 minutes and briefly threatened to make a contest of it, but the Hammers responded positively. Billy Mehmet restored the two-goal cushion eight minutes from time, finishing off another dangerous attacking move to put West Ham back in complete control.
The victory was sealed five minutes later when Eastwood struck again, applying the finishing touch to complete a convincing 4-1 success. The goal was his fifth in just three matches, underlining a remarkable spell of form for the young forward and providing the perfect end to another accomplished performance from the Hammers' promising Under-17 side.
MILLWALL
Ship Lane, Purfleet
5 - 4 (McMahon D. 3, Akinste, Allen)
21 October 2000
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Saunders
Ward
Khan
Allen
Ritchie
Mehmet (Akinste)
McMahon D.
Eastwood
REPORT:
ARSENAL
Chadwell Heath
28 October 2000
Postponed : Waterlogged
SOUTHAMPTON
Ship Lane, Purfleet
2 - 2 (McMahon D. 2, Saunders)
11 November 2000
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Khan
Ward (Saunders)
Tattam (Fletcher)
Ritchie
Cascione (Akinsette)
Mehmet
McMahon D.
Allen
West Ham United's Under-17s demonstrated tremendous character to earn a deserved draw against the FA Premier Youth Academy League leaders, thanks to a moment of brilliance from Darryl McMahon that would not have looked out of place in the scrapbook of Paolo Di Canio.
Battling fiercely against both a strong Southampton side and gale-force conditions, the young Hammers more than matched their illustrious opponents throughout an absorbing contest. Despite creating the better openings, West Ham fell behind after 21 minutes when a defensive lapse allowed Broxton to break clear and square for Saints striker Shay Saunders, who calmly side-footed home from close range.
The setback failed to dent the Hammers' confidence and they continued to produce the more imaginative attacking football. Their persistence was finally rewarded on 70 minutes when substitute Craig Saunders made an immediate impact. With his very first touch, he collected possession just outside the Southampton penalty area, skipped past his marker and fired a clinical shot into the corner of the net to bring West Ham level.
Remarkably, Southampton regained the advantage with just eight minutes remaining, scoring against the run of play after the Hammers failed to deal with a cross from the right. Even then, West Ham refused to surrender. Billy Mehmet thought he had equalised from James Allen's inviting delivery, only for his effort to be ruled out for offside.
That disappointment merely set the stage for a dramatic finale. With two minutes remaining, McMahon collected the ball on the halfway line and embarked on a superb solo run, beating two Southampton players before spotting the goalkeeper off his line. Showing outstanding vision and technique, the midfielder lofted an audacious effort over the stranded keeper and into the net, sparking celebrations among the home support.
READING
Cantley Park
4 - 1 (Eastwood 2, Mehmet 2)
25 November 2000
Jackson
Metitiri (Dean)
Tatham (Morris)
Ward
Khan
McMahon
Allen
Cascione (Saunders)
Mehmet
Ritchie
Eastwood
West Ham United's Under-17s recovered from an early setback to record a convincing victory over Reading, with Freddy Eastwood and Billy Mehmet both helping themselves to a brace in an excellent attacking display.
The young Hammers dominated the opening exchanges and were unfortunate not to take an early lead. Reading goalkeeper Brown was in inspired form, first producing a superb save to deny Eastwood before hurling himself to his right to keep out a thunderous 20-yard drive from Darryl McMahon.
Despite West Ham's control, it was Reading who broke the deadlock completely against the run of play. A mis-kick from Elliot Ward became trapped in the muddy surface, allowing Bird to seize possession and race through before firing beyond Glen Jackson.
The setback did little to alter the pattern of the match and West Ham's persistence paid off just before half-time. James Allen swung over a corner from the left, Manny Cascione flicked the ball on, and Eastwood was on hand to force it over the line and bring the Hammers level.
West Ham's superiority became increasingly evident after the interval. Allen was again the architect on 66 minutes, delivering a precise cross that Eastwood powered home with a well-taken header to put the visitors in front. Ten minutes later, another dangerous Allen delivery created the third goal, with Mehmet finishing confidently to give the Hammers breathing space.
Mehmet completed both his brace and the scoring in the closing seconds. This time Eastwood turned provider, supplying an inviting cross that the striker converted at the near post to cap an emphatic victory.
ARSENAL
Chadwell Heath
9 December 2000
Postponed : Waterlogged
CRYSTAL PALACE
Rush Green
6 - 1 (Allen 2, Eastwood 2, Ritchie, Ward)
16 December 2000
Jackson (Sealey G.)
Allen
Tatham (Dean)
Ward
Fletcher
Khan
Ritchie
Beaumont
Mehmet
McMahon D. (Saunders)
Eastwood
West Ham United's Under-17s produced a devastating attacking display to overwhelm Crystal Palace, with James Allen at the heart of virtually everything good the young Hammers created.
Allen tormented the Palace defence from the opening whistle and deservedly opened the scoring on 21 minutes after another incisive run caused havoc among the visitors' back line. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, West Ham were unable to add to their advantage before the interval.
The Hammers' superiority was finally reflected on the scoresheet ten minutes into the second half. Allen was once again the architect, delivering an inviting cross from the right that Freddy Eastwood met after cleverly losing his marker, side-footing home to double the lead.
Palace briefly threatened a fightback when they pulled a goal back, but West Ham quickly reasserted their authority. Allen claimed a third assist of the afternoon, swinging over another dangerous cross that Elliot Ward headed firmly into the net to restore the two-goal cushion.
From that point there was only one side in the contest. Niall Ritchie made it 4-1 on 76 minutes before Eastwood struck again just three minutes later, rising to head home Brent Tattam's cross for his second goal of the match.
Allen then crowned a magnificent individual performance with his second goal of the afternoon two minutes from time, applying the finishing touch to complete a comprehensive rout.
SOUTHAMPTON
Staplewood
6 - 2 (Eastwood 3, Allen 2, Allen)
20 December 2000
Jackson (Sealey G.)
Allen
Dean
Metitiri
Khan
Johnson
Ritchie
Saunders
Mehmet (Deen)
McMahon
Eastwood (Akinsete)
West Ham United's Under-17s produced one of their most impressive performances of the season as they swept aside league leaders Southampton in a thrilling re-arranged fixture, with Freddy Eastwood's hat-trick and James Allen's creative brilliance proving too much for the visitors.
The tone was set after just three minutes when Eastwood raced clear and was brought down just outside the penalty area by Southampton goalkeeper Williams. The offence earned the Saints keeper a straight red card, leaving the league leaders to battle with ten men for virtually the entire match.
Despite creating a succession of chances, the Hammers had to wait until three minutes before half-time to make their advantage count. Allen's dangerous cross was met by Billy Mehmet, whose effort took a decisive touch off Eastwood before finding the back of the net and giving West Ham a deserved lead.
Southampton responded immediately after the interval and drew level just two minutes into the second half. Following a free-kick, Peters rose above the Hammers defence to head past Glen Jackson from close range.
The setback was short-lived. Six minutes later Allen delivered another superb cross from the right and Eastwood was on hand to restore West Ham's advantage. On 59 minutes, Allen's influence was felt once again as he picked out Mehmet, who slid home confidently to make it 3-1.
With the visitors struggling to contain West Ham's fluent attacking play, Allen finally added his own name to the scoresheet ten minutes from time, converting after a fine cross from Niall Ritchie. Two minutes later, Eastwood completed his hat-trick, turning home from a short-corner routine to cap another outstanding individual display.
There was still time for one final flourish. Deep into stoppage time, Allen struck his second goal of the afternoon to complete a comprehensive victory that underlined the Hammers' championship credentials.
Reflecting on the result, coach Peter Brabrook praised both the collective effort and several standout individual performances. While Eastwood's hat-trick and Allen's two goals and a series of assists stole the headlines, Brabrook reserved special praise for Glen Johnson, describing the defender as "a colossus" at the back. The coach also warned against complacency, noting that Arsenal and Wimbledon remained firmly in contention with crucial fixtures still to come.
FULHAM
Rush Green
0 - 4
27 January 2001
Jackson (Sealey G.)
Metitiri
Dean
Fletcher
Ward
Ferdinand (McClenahan)
Allen
Beaumont
Eastwood
Tattam
Akinsete (Sinclair)
West Ham United's Under-17s endured a disappointing return to action after the Christmas break as Fulham claimed a convincing victory, although the scoreline did not fully reflect the effort shown by a youthful and inexperienced Hammers side.
With several regulars drafted into the Under-19 squad to cover for injuries, coach Peter Brabrook was forced to field a number of schoolboys, and the reshaped side faced a difficult afternoon against a strong Fulham outfit.
The young Hammers battled gamely for much of the opening period and kept their opponents at bay until ten minutes before the interval. Fulham broke the deadlock when goalkeeper Glen Jackson was unable to deal with a corner, allowing the visitors to head home from close range. Matters became even tougher shortly afterwards when a well-struck free-kick from 30 yards doubled Fulham's advantage before the break.
West Ham showed commendable spirit after the restart and remained competitive despite their depleted line-up. The hosts worked tirelessly to stem Fulham's attacks and resisted for long periods, but their hopes of a recovery were effectively ended eight minutes from time when the visitors bundled home a scrappy third goal.
Fulham added further gloss to the scoreline in the closing moments, scoring with a strike from just outside the penalty area to complete a 4-0 victory.
While the result was a setback for the young Hammers, the circumstances surrounding the match were significant. With several key players absent and younger schoolboys stepping up in their place, West Ham's commitment never wavered, even against a Fulham side that proved more clinical in front of goal.
BRISTOL CITY
Rush Green
4 - 0 (Eastwood 3, Akinsete)
30 January 2001
Jackson, Metitiri, Dean (Ferdiand A.), Fletcher (McClenahan), Khan, Allen, Cascione, Ritchie, McMahon D.,
Eastwood, Akinsete, (Cole)
West Ham United's Under-17s eased to a comfortable victory in this League fixture at Fords Sports and Social Club, with Freddy Eastwood stealing the headlines through a superb hat-trick.
The young Hammers controlled proceedings for long periods and took a firm grip on the contest shortly before half-time. Eastwood struck twice in the space of just a minute, scoring in the 31st and 32nd minutes to send West Ham into the interval with a commanding two-goal advantage and leave the opposition reeling. Any hopes of a comeback were effectively extinguished nine minutes after the restart when Ayo Akinsete added a third goal, further underlining the Hammers' superiority. West Ham continued to dictate the tempo and looked threatening throughout, with Eastwood proving a constant menace in attack.
The striker completed an outstanding individual display with just two minutes remaining, sealing his hat-trick and capping an emphatic team performance that never looked in doubt once the Hammers had established their first-half lead.
Coach Peter Brabrook was delighted with both the result and the quality of the display, commenting: "We looked a half-decent side today." He also singled out young substitute Cole for praise, adding: "The young lad Cole, who is only 14, came on and did well."
With Eastwood in clinical form and encouraging contributions throughout the side, it was another polished performance from a West Ham team continuing to build momentum as the season progressed.
FULHAM
Motspur Park
1 - 1 (McMahon D.)
14 February 2001
Jackson
Metitiri
Fletcher
Dean
Allen (Saunders)
Tattam
Ritchie
Cascione
McMahon D.
Eastwood
Akinsete (Ferdinand A.)
West Ham United's Under-17s were left frustrated after being held by Fulham in a fiercely contested encounter that may yet prove costly in the race for the league title.
The young Hammers made a positive start and were rewarded on 20 minutes following a spell of sustained pressure. After forcing three successive corners, Darryl McMahon seized upon hesitation in the Fulham defence, winning possession from a defender before showing great composure to beat goalkeeper Kincade and give West Ham a deserved lead.
The hosts looked relatively comfortable until the 56th minute when Fulham drew level in controversial circumstances. Anthony Dean appeared to have been pulled back by Noble, prompting the Hammers defence to stop, expecting a free-kick. Play continued, however, and Noble squared the ball across goal for Buari to tap into an empty net. West Ham's sense of injustice deepened when Dean's protests to the referee resulted in a red card, leaving the Hammers to complete the match with ten men.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, West Ham continued to battle and were indebted to McMahon for preserving parity five minutes from time. Following a Fulham corner, Rehman's header appeared destined for the net until McMahon dramatically hooked the ball off the line. The action quickly switched to the other end and, just a minute later, Fulham substitute Benjamin produced an equally vital clearance, denying Niall Ritchie after his effort looked certain to restore the Hammers' lead.
In the end, both sides had chances to claim victory, but the draw felt like a missed opportunity for the Hammers as they attempted to maintain momentum in the title race.
The result was made all the more challenging by a growing list of absentees facing coach Peter Brabrook. Looking ahead to the run-in, Brabrook revealed that James Allen would soon begin a suspension following his dismissal in the Youth Cup tie at Oldham, while Glen Johnson had been ruled out for the remainder of the season after undergoing a hernia operation. Billy Mehmet and Terry Khan were also facing several weeks on the sidelines through injury.
WIMBLEDON
Rush Green
2 - 0 (Dean, Eastwood)
17 February 2001
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Saunders (Banton)
Fletcher
Tattam
Allen
Ritchie
Akinsete
McMahon D.
Eastwood
West Ham United's Under-17s climbed to the summit of the FA Premier Youth Academy Under-17s table with a deserved victory that saw them replace Wimbledon at the top of the standings.
The young Hammers were the better side throughout and finally gained the breakthrough their play merited on 38 minutes. The move began when the ball was worked out wide to the influential James Allen, who skilfully beat two defenders before delivering an accurate cross to the far post. Waiting there was Freddy Eastwood, who rose confidently to guide a header into the net and give West Ham a valuable lead before the interval.
The Hammers continued to control proceedings after the break and effectively secured the points ten minutes into the second half. Following a corner, the ball broke invitingly for Anthony Dean, who unleashed a superb half-volley through a crowded penalty area and beyond the helpless goalkeeper.
With their defence remaining solid and their midfield dictating the tempo, West Ham comfortably protected their advantage to record another important victory. The result not only extended the young Hammers' impressive run of form but also lifted them above the Dons and into first place, strengthening their credentials as genuine contenders for the league title.
WIMBLEDON
Charterhouse Sports Centre
1 - 0 (Cascione)
21 February 2001
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Khan
Fletcher
Tattam
Akinsete (Cole M.)
Ritchie
Cascione
McMahon D.
Eastwood
West Ham United's Under-17s strengthened their grip on top spot by defeating Wimbledon for the second time in four days, opening up a valuable five-point advantage at the summit of the FA Premier Youth Academy Under-17s table.
In a closely-fought encounter, the breakthrough was ultimately provided by one of the youngest players on the pitch. Schoolboy Mitchell Cole, making his debut for Peter Brabrook's side and no relation to Joe Cole, came off the bench midway through the second half and immediately injected fresh impetus into the Hammers' attack.
The decisive moment arrived on 73 minutes when Cole produced a piece of individual brilliance down the left flank. Skipping past three Wimbledon defenders, the youngster surged into space before delivering a superb cross into the penalty area. Freddy Eastwood met it with a powerful effort that the Wimbledon goalkeeper could only parry, and Manny Cascione reacted quickest to slide the rebound into the net.
It proved to be the winning goal in another important victory for the young Hammers, whose resilience and quality shone through against one of their closest challengers. Cole's memorable debut and Cascione's clinical finish ensured West Ham completed a league double over the Dons within four days and took a significant step forward in their pursuit of the Under-17s title.
ARSENAL
London Colney
0 - 2
24 February 2001
Jackson, Akinsette, Dean, Khan, Metitiri, Tattam, Ritchie, Cascione, Saunders (Cole M.), McMahon D., Eastwood
West Ham United's Under-17s saw their lead at the top of the FA Premier Youth Academy table reduced following a frustrating defeat at London Colney, a result that failed to reflect their dominance during the opening half.
The young Hammers were comfortably the better side before the interval and should have established a decisive advantage. Niall Ritchie and Freddy Eastwood both found themselves clean through on goal on two occasions, but each was denied in one-on-one situations as Arsenal survived a series of clear-cut opportunities.
Having failed to make their superiority count, West Ham were punished within a minute of the restart. Anthony Dean was adjudged to have made a rash challenge inside the area, allowing the Gunners to take the lead from the penalty spot.
The setback altered the complexion of the match and, despite West Ham's efforts to force a way back into contention, Arsenal strengthened their grip on the contest 20 minutes later. A defensive mistake gifted the home side possession in a dangerous area and they took full advantage, scoring a straightforward second goal to effectively secure the points.
For the Hammers, it was a case of missed opportunities proving costly. After creating enough chances to take firm control of the game in the first half, they were left to rue their profligacy as Arsenal capitalised on key moments to claim victory and tighten the race at the top of the Under-17s table.
QUEENS PARK RANGERS
Harlington
2 - 0 (Allen, Eastwood)
3 March 2001
Jackson
Metitiri
Tatham
Khan
Fletcher
Saunders (Cole M.)
Allen
Ritchie
Akinsete
McMahon D.
Eastwood
West Ham United's Under-17s maintained their push at the top of the table with a hard-earned victory over Queens Park Rangers, taking control after a closely contested first half in which both sides squandered opportunities to break the deadlock.
The match remained finely balanced until five minutes into the second period when Freddy Eastwood turned the game in West Ham's favour. Latching onto a through ball, the striker raced clear of the Rangers defence before calmly slotting his finish to the right of the advancing goalkeeper Ramsey.
The breakthrough lifted the Hammers and they went on to dominate much of the remainder of the contest, creating a number of chances while restricting Rangers to limited opportunities. However, with the score still precariously poised, the visitors were forced to wait until the closing stages before securing the points.
Ten minutes from time, substitute Mitchell Cole made a decisive contribution. The young winger delivered an excellent cross into the penalty area, where James Allen met it with a thunderous finish that gave Ramsey no chance and effectively settled the contest.
It was a deserved victory for the Hammers, whose superior quality showed after the interval, with Eastwood's clinical opener and Allen's powerful late strike ensuring West Ham emerged with another valuable three points.
CHARLTON ATHLETIC
Chadwell Heath
6 - 1 (Allen 2, Eastwood 2, Cascione, Cole)
10 March 2001
Jackson
Metitiri
Dean
Ward
Fletcher
Ritchie
Allen
Cascione
Pearson (Mehmet)
McMahon D. (Saunders)
Eastwood (Cole M.)
West Ham United's Under-17s maintained their title charge in emphatic fashion, recovering from an early setback to overwhelm Charlton Athletic with six unanswered goals at Chadwell Heath and remain locked at the top of the FA Premier Youth Academy table alongside Arsenal.
Charlton struck first to briefly stun the hosts, but the Hammers responded in devastating style. James Allen levelled the scores before West Ham began to take complete control of the contest. Freddy Eastwood then fired the Hammers in front, and Allen added his second of the afternoon to give Peter Brabrook's side a commanding advantage by the interval.
Any hopes of a Charlton revival were extinguished shortly after the restart when Eastwood struck again to make it 4-1. With West Ham now playing with confidence and freedom, Manny Cascione added a fifth goal as the visitors struggled to contain the relentless attacking pressure.
The scoring was completed by substitute Mitchell Cole, whose late contribution put the finishing touch to a dominant display and capped an afternoon in which the young Hammers' attacking quality proved far too much for their opponents.
Coach Peter Brabrook was delighted with both the performance and the result, which kept West Ham firmly in the hunt for league honours. However, he was quick to stress that there was still plenty of work to be done.
"This win puts us right up there with Arsenal," said Brabrook. "It looks like the title race could go right to the wire when we play them at Chadwell Heath in the last game of the season."
READING
Chadwell Heath
3 - 1 (Eastwood)
17 March 2001
Programme wrongly printed as an (Under-19) fixture
Jackson
Metitiri (Fletcher)
Dean
Khan
Ward
Ritchie (Cole M.)
Allen
Cascione
Mehmet
McMahon D. (Tattam)
Eastwood
West Ham United's Under-17s remained firmly in the title hunt with an emphatic victory over Reading at Chadwell Heath, inspired by a devastating first-half hat-trick from the prolific Freddy Eastwood.
The young Hammers dominated from the outset and were rewarded on 11 minutes when James Allen showcased his skill by evading two challenges before whipping in an inviting cross. Eastwood met it perfectly, volleying home to give West Ham a thoroughly deserved lead.
Eight minutes later the pair were at it again, this time with Darryl McMahon playing a key role. Fine work down the opposite flank created the opening and Eastwood once more demonstrated his predatory instincts, volleying past the helpless Reading goalkeeper to double the advantage.
Reading struggled to contain West Ham's fluid attacking play and, on the stroke of half-time, Eastwood completed a superb hat-trick. Allen supplied the delivery once again, and the striker rose to head home his third goal of the afternoon, sending the Hammers into the interval with a commanding 3-0 lead.
Although West Ham were unable to reproduce the same level of intensity after the break, they continued to control the contest. Reading pulled a goal back on 67 minutes, but the visitors never seriously threatened to overturn the deficit.
With Eastwood in irresistible form and Allen once again proving a constant creative influence, the Hammers' outstanding first-half display ultimately settled the outcome long before the final whistle, securing another important victory in their pursuit of league honours.
ARSENAL
Chadwell Heath
3 - 2 (Allen, Mehmet, Ritchie)
31 March 2001
Jackson
Metitiri (Ward)
Dean
Johnson
Khan
Allen
Cascione
McMahon D.
Ritchie
Eastwood
Mehmet (Pearson)
West Ham United's Under-17s crowned a magnificent campaign by defeating Arsenal at Chadwell Heath to secure the FA Premier Youth Academy Group League title in front of a delighted home support.
Peter Brabrook's side produced a superb first-half display to seize control of the title-deciding encounter, racing into a commanding three-goal lead against their nearest challengers. The breakthrough arrived after 20 minutes thanks to a moment of brilliance from Billy Mehmet. Receiving the ball from a throw-in, Mehmet juggled possession under pressure before flicking an inventive cross over his shoulder into the penalty area, where James Allen arrived to head home and spark celebrations.
West Ham doubled their advantage just six minutes later with another excellent team move. Manny Cascione combined cleverly with Freddy Eastwood before the striker rolled a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Niall Ritchie, who met it with a fine volley beyond the Arsenal goalkeeper.
The young Hammers were playing with confidence and flair, and their third goal on 40 minutes was as unusual as it was effective. Chasing a long ball over the top, Mehmet harried the Arsenal goalkeeper into a hurried clearance, only for the ball to cannon off the forward's shoulder and loop into the net, capping an outstanding first-half performance by the hosts.
Arsenal reduced the deficit shortly before the interval to keep their hopes alive and added a second goal with virtually the last kick of the match, but West Ham had already done enough. Their dominant opening 45 minutes ultimately proved decisive as they held on to record a memorable victory and seal the league championship.
The achievement was warmly praised by Academy Director Tony Carr, who said: "This is a tremendous achievement for Peter Brabrook and his squad. We will now do our best to win the Under-17s Academy Championship outright."
BRISTOL CITY
Clifton College
3 - 0 (Allen, Mehmet, Ritchie)
2 April 2001
Sealey G., Khan, Blewitt (Cascione), Fletcher, Dean, Allen, Ritchie, McMahon D. (Laws), Cole M., Morris, Eastwood (Mehmet)
Just days after securing the FA Premier Youth Academy Group League title, West Ham United's Under-17s showed there was no danger of complacency as they eased to an impressive victory away to Bristol City.
The newly-crowned champions took time to find their rhythm after a demanding journey of more than four hours and, despite enjoying much of the possession, were unable to break the deadlock during a largely uninspiring first half.
The turning point arrived at the interval when a triple substitution injected fresh energy into the visitors' play. One of those introduced, schoolboy Mitchell Cole, made an immediate impact and helped transform the contest. On 53 minutes, the youngster surged down the left flank before delivering an inviting cross that Danny Morris expertly converted to put the Hammers ahead.
West Ham's confidence grew with the breakthrough and they doubled their advantage on 67 minutes through Billy Mehmet, who produced a fine finish from a tight angle to leave the Bristol goalkeeper with no chance.
CRYSTAL PALACE
Chadwell Heath
Fixture not fulfilled
4 April 2001
The original away fixture against Crystal Palace, scheduled for 4 April, was later rearranged to be played at Chadwell Heath. However, the weather had the final say, with torrential rain rendering the pitch unplayable and forcing the match to be abandoned before a ball had been kicked.
Having already secured the FA Premier Youth Academy Group League title, Under-17s coach Peter Brabrook subsequently agreed with Crystal Palace that the fixture should be cancelled by mutual consent. With neither side having anything significant to gain from the result, there was little appetite for risking injuries at a crucial stage of the season.
Brabrook explained the decision by pointing to the demanding schedule that lay ahead. The young Hammers were preparing to travel to the Dallas International Youth Tournament before returning to contest the Academy League play-offs, and preserving the squad's fitness had become the priority.
"There was nothing riding on the result for either team and we didn't want to pick up any injuries before leaving for Dallas," said Brabrook.
The cancellation brought West Ham's successful Group League campaign to an early close, allowing the newly crowned champions to focus fully on the challenges that awaited both overseas and in the Academy Championship play-offs.
FA Premier Academy League play-offs:
FULHAM : Play-off Match
Chadwell Heath
7 - 0 (Allen 4 (1 pen), Mehmet, Eastwood, Akinsete)
21 April 2001
Jackson
Khan
Ward (Tattam)
Fletcher
Dean
Allen (Banton)
Ritchie
Cascione
McMahon D.
Mehmet
Eastwood (Akinsete)
Despite a gruelling and heavily delayed return flight from Dallas, West Ham’s youngsters showed little sign of tiredness as they swept aside Fulham in their Group Play-off clash at Chadwell Heath.
The Hammers produced a polished display of neat, controlled football and effectively settled the contest before the interval. James Allen opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Billy Mehmet doubled the advantage with a well-taken finish. Allen then struck again from close range to send West Ham into the break with a commanding 3-0 lead and one foot firmly in the next round.
Any hopes of a Fulham fightback were quickly extinguished after the restart as the Hammers continued to dominate. Creating chances at will, they maintained their relentless tempo and added a fourth through Freddy Eastwood on 54 minutes. Allen completed an impressive hat-trick just twelve minutes later before Ayo Akinsete joined the scoresheet to make it six.
There was still time for Allen to crown a memorable afternoon, unleashing a fierce drive on 70 minutes for his fourth goal of the game and West Ham’s seventh, putting the finishing touch to a devastating attacking display. It was a performance full of energy, quality and ruthless finishing, with the Hammers showing no effects of their travel troubles as they stormed to an emphatic 7-0 victory.
BIRMINGHAM CITY : Play-off Match
St Andrews
3 - 1 (Allen, Eastwood, Ritchie)
24 April 2001
Jackson
Khan
Fletcher
Ward
Dean
Allen
Ritchie (Cole M.)
Cascione
McMahon D.
Eastwood (Akinsete)
Mehmet (Pearson)
Just days after their seven-goal demolition of Fulham, West Ham's Under-17s produced another outstanding display to book their place in the quarter-finals with a commanding victory over Birmingham City at a rain-soaked St Andrew's.
In atrocious conditions, the young Hammers combined determination with quality football to take control of the tie. Freddy Eastwood opened the scoring after 13 minutes, finishing confidently following excellent work from James Allen, whose enterprise and creativity continually troubled the home defence.
West Ham doubled their advantage two minutes before the break when Allen's free-kick slipped through the grasp of the Birmingham goalkeeper and into the net, rewarding the visitors for a first-half performance full of composure and attacking intent.
The Hammers continued to dominate after the interval and effectively sealed victory on 58 minutes. A flowing move involving Daryll McMahon, Allen and Eastwood carved open the Birmingham defence, allowing Nidi Ritchie to apply the finishing touch and make it 3-0.
Despite Birmingham pulling back a late consolation from the penalty spot, the final score barely reflected West Ham's superiority. The visitors created a host of chances throughout and could easily have added several more goals on another day. Coach Peter Brabrook was understandably delighted with his side's display, particularly given the testing conditions.
COVENTRY CITY : Play-off Match
Chadwell Heath
2 - 3 (Cole. M, Pearson)
28 April 2001
Sealey G.
Ferdinand A.
Ward
Fletcher (Parrington)
Tattam
Akinsete (Laws)
Ritchie
McMahon D.
Cole M.
Pearson
Morris (Noble)
Despite suffering defeat at Chadwell Heath, West Ham had already done enough to secure their place in the Play-off quarter-finals, where Tottenham Hotspur awaited.
The Hammers battled hard against a lively Coventry City side but ultimately came up just short. After falling behind, they fought their way back into the contest when Mitchell Cole struck on 54 minutes to ignite hopes of a recovery. West Ham pressed for an equaliser and remained firmly in the hunt before Greg Pearson found the net two minutes from time, but the late strike was not enough to deny the visitors.
While disappointed with the result, coach Peter Brabrook took considerable encouragement from the performances of several younger players who were handed an opportunity to impress.
"We were forced to play a few schoolboys and I thought they did well and showed a lot of potential," said Brabrook. "I was especially pleased with Mark Noble, who is only 13. The other two subs also did well for us."
Although the defeat was a setback, the match provided valuable experience for some of the club's brightest young prospects. Among them was the teenage Noble, whose assured display earned special praise from his coach and offered another glimpse of the talent emerging through West Ham's youth ranks as attention turned towards the upcoming quarter-final showdown with Spurs.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR : Quarter-Final
Chadwell Heath
2 - 1 (McMahon D., Mehmet)
5 May 2001
Jackson
Khan
Dean
Ward
Tattam
Cascione
McMahon D.
Mehmet
Eastwood
Allen
Ritchie
West Ham United's Under-17s succeeded where the first team had fallen short earlier in the season, overcoming fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 to secure a place in the semi-finals of the FA Premier Youth Academy play-offs.
Peter Brabrook's young Hammers showed tremendous character to recover from a first-half setback after Spurs had taken the lead. Undeterred, West Ham regrouped after the interval and gradually took control of a fiercely contested quarter-final.
Their reward arrived when Billy Mehmet produced a surging run down the flank before delivering an inviting cross for Daryll McMahon, who arrived on cue to steer home from eight yards and restore parity. The equaliser lifted the Hammers and injected fresh belief into their play as they pressed for a winner.
The decisive moment came later in the second half. James Allen's accurate cross from the right found Mehmet in space, and the striker made no mistake, driving a first-time effort into the net from ten yards to spark celebrations among the home side.
Having battled back from behind, West Ham defended resolutely during the closing stages to preserve their advantage and seal a memorable victory. It was a performance full of determination, composure and attacking quality, earning the young Hammers a deserved place in the last four and another notable triumph over their North London rivals. Elliot Ward was a hero late on as he cleared an effort off the line with just two minutes left.
IPSWICH TOWN : Semi-Final
Chadwell Heath
0 - 2
12 May 2001
Jackson
Khan (Akinsette)
Ward
Johnson
Dean
Allen
Cascione
Ritchie (Pearson)
McMahon D.
Eastwood
Mehmet (Fletcher)
West Ham United's Under-17s saw their impressive FA Premier Youth Academy play-off campaign brought to an end with a 2-0 semi-final defeat to Ipswich Town at Chadwell Heath.
Ahead of the tie, coach Peter Brabrook had identified the Suffolk club as the strongest of the potential semi-final opponents, and so it proved on a warm afternoon watched by an enthusiastic crowd that included chairman Terry Brown and several club directors. Yet despite the scoreline, Brabrook was left convinced that the Hammers had more than matched their highly-rated visitors.
West Ham began brightly and created enough opportunities to take control of the contest. Billy Mehmet came closest when he broke clear with only the goalkeeper to beat, but lost his footing at the crucial moment, while the striker was also denied with a headed chance. Freddy Eastwood went close, and Elliott Ward saw a superb volley dramatically cleared off the line as the Hammers piled on the pressure.
"We were better than them in the first half but we defended poorly for the goals," reflected Brabrook afterwards. "If we'd scored the first goal we might have won the game comfortably."
Ipswich's opening goal proved particularly contentious, with doubts remaining over whether the ball had fully crossed the line. Their second arrived after a shot rebounded from the goalkeeper's chest and was converted at the second attempt. As West Ham chased the game, throwing players forward in search of a route back, further chances came and went.
"They only had one attack in the first half and scored from it," said Brabrook. "As the game went on we threw caution to the wind and pushed people further forward. Maybe that first goal affected the game, but we still had a full game to get a goal or two and on the day it just wasn't to be."
The veteran coach was particularly frustrated by his side's inability to convert their opportunities.
"We squandered so many chances it was untrue," he admitted. "But I said to the lads they've had a good season and they shouldn't be too despondent."
Indeed, despite the disappointment of falling one step short of the final, Brabrook remained adamant about the quality within his squad.
"The Ipswich people are saying it is the best side they have had for seven or eight years but, in my opinion, and without being biased, we are better than them."
Unable to hide his sense of humour after a frustrating afternoon, the 1964 FA Cup winner joked that he would spend the rest of the day watching the cup final with his winners' medal around his neck, quipping to his young players: "You won't all get one of these today!"
Defeat ended a promising cup run, but the semi-final appearance underlined the strength of a talented West Ham generation that had entertained throughout the competition and earned the admiration of all who watched them.