Nwoko hat-trick sees U14A through to ESFA Round of 16

By Josh Hood

Hampton’s U14A football team saw off Trinity School in the 5th round of the ESFA Cup after a hat trick from Chibby Nwoko helped to seal a 3-2 victory.

After a long journey and various delays, the game eventually kicked off in front of a large supporting fan base and in heavy rain. The uneven pitch certainly played a part as both the ball and various players found themselves sliding around in the opening minutes, leaving it difficult for either side to control the ball.

However, play started to pick up as soon enough Nwoko skipped past a number of opponents before driving the ball across the face of the goal and into the bottom right corner to break the deadlock. 

More exciting played followed as 3 players went on to hit the woodwork in the following few minutes, prior to the follow-up goal as once again Nwoko found himself on the edge of the six-yard box after a great run down the wing from Hayden Christian. He opened his body up and slotted the ball into the net to give Hampton a two-goal lead.

As the second half progressed, play became more competitive and a very tight game was developing. However, easing the tension yet again, Nwoko popped up with a goal to secure his hat trick and further increase the lead for the away side.

In spite of this increased lead and a more relaxing situation for Hampton, the closing minutes played host to two unexpected goals from Trinity to almost manufacture a comeback from an otherwise Hampton-dominated game.

Although a late blip put doubt in the mind of the players and fans alike, the boys delivered a very reassuring performance, readying them for the ESFA Round of 16 and upcoming matches in the Surrey Cup.