A very youthful Leeds United Under-18s squad recently travelled to the Far East to take part in the famous HKFC Soccer Sevens tournament.
The invitational seven-a-side competition pits Academy teams from some of Europe’s biggest clubs against more experienced opposition from Asia, giving great exposure and experience to our exciting youth prospects.
Rob Etherington’s side began their campaign with a 2-0 win over Singapore FC at the Hong Kong Football Club Stadium, fired to victory by a Sam Alker brace.
The England youth international was again on target next time out in the meeting with Hong Kong FC, before the Whites were edged out by eventual champions Brighton & Hove Albion to conclude the Group B.
Two goals from Alker again along with a Freddie Lane effort saw Leeds overcome local outfit Hong Kong Rangers in sweltering conditions in the quarter-finals before they bowed out at the last four stage.
After the conclusion of the U18s’ regular season, the competition is the second overseas event against teams from around the world which United have competed in, following the Mohammed VI Football Academy Invitational International Tournament which included a win against Spanish outfit Villarreal CF.
Speaking on the competition, boss Etherington said: “It was a privilege to be invited to this year’s Hong Kong Soccer Sevens tournament, a world-famous 7-a-side competition that provides young players from across the UK with the opportunity to compete against experienced senior players from across Asia.
“The players performed incredibly well throughout the tournament, unfortunately losing in a semi-final to a golden goal in extra time. Despite the disappointment, there were many positive performances to be proud of.”
The Young Whites were cheered on by a considerable Leeds contingent in the Far East, demonstrating the supporters’ incredible backing of the Academy, according to Rob.
“Finally, a big thank you to all the fans who travelled to support the boys throughout the tournament. Your incredible support is further evidence of how special this football club is and helps provide invaluable experiences for our young players as they pursue their ambition of playing for the first team.”