West Hatch High School's 1st XI football team have been crowned Under-19 Essex Schools Cup winners after a 4-3 final victory over Southend High School for Boys.

The Chigwell school went one better than a year ago when the same school beat West Hatch in the final.

This year's final was held at Dagenham & Redbridge FC.

West Hatch's goals were scored by Eren Muti, Ronnie Smurthwaite (penalty) as the side were 2-1 up at half-time.

Southend levelled the tie three minutes into the second half before Eren Muti netted his second of the match to give West Hatch the lead.

Cam Ovel made it 4-2 with 15 minutes left but Southend scored again - after Erin Muti was shown a second yellow card - to make it a nervy last few minutes for the ten men of West Hatch.

Head of PE Coralie Reid said: ‘’Big congratulations to captain Ronnie Smurthwaite, the players, assistant Mr Howell and Mr Hoy who, now in his tenth year at the school, has won his first ever football Essex Cup as a teacher (his fourth as player and teacher for West Hatch) and emulates his father, Mr Hoy Senior, who won the trophy three times in a row in the 1980s."

She added: "Also a massive thank you to all parents and staff who watched and supported the boys, I know it was very much appreciated and to Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club for a super venue and hospitality."