National Football Youth league Cup

Barking Abbey 5 v 1 Chelsea FC Blenheim Elite

PoM Amber 

Barking Abbey booked their place in the National Football Youth League Cup final after a clinical 5–1 victory over Chelsea FC Blenheim Elite on Wednesday. The two title contenders met for the third time this season, with Chelsea FC Blenheim Elite travelling for the first time in the series. The visitors started brightly, pressing high and spending long spells in Barking Abbey’s half, but struggled to convert early half‑chances. Barking Abbey struck first in the 17th minute, capitalising on a second phase from a corner. Chelsea FC Blenheim Elite nearly responded immediately through Dani, whose volley flashed just wide, but the hosts doubled their lead on 29 minutes with a swift counterattack and added a third before the break in similar fashion. Despite trailing 3–0 at half-time, Chelsea FC Blenheim Elite emerged with renewed intent. Their more direct approach created sustained pressure and several openings, but the finishing touch continued to elude them. Amelia finally broke through in the 80th minute with a powerful run and top‑corner strike to make it 3–1, giving the visitors late momentum. However, Barking Abbey restored control with an 85th‑minute follow‑up finish and sealed the result in stoppage time with a long‑range free‑kick. Chelsea FC Blenheim Elite’s spirited second‑half display wasn’t enough to overturn Barking Abbey’s ruthless edge in both boxes.