BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent Colne Football Academy have reached the National League Cup semi-finals.

They booked their place after a 3-1 victory against Bromley, thanks to goals from Antonio Sabini, Rob Harvey and Harry McDonald.

One hundred and six teams from the best football academies in the country - outside of professional football clubs - took part.

The Colne have now equalled their best-ever performance in cup competitions, in the dozen years the academy has been running.

"Considering our demographics and the competition nationally, this achievement is something the players should be extremely proud of," said director of sport Jon Taylor.

"We look forward to the next challenge in the semi-finals."

The semi-final will be played on Wednesday (April 5) at Brightlingsea Regent's North Road ground, against Boreham Wood (kick-off 2pm).

The Colne first team currently sit second in the National Under-19 Alliance League and their second and third teams are second and third respectively in the British Colleges Eastern Academy League.

Colne are also well-placed to make the district final for the tenth season in a row.

Any Year 11 students wishing to trial for the Colne Football Academy, starting in September, should contact Jon Taylor on 01206 309967 or jtaylor@colne.essex.sch.uk