COLCHESTER Villa under-11s have proved that if you are good enough, you are old enough after they triumphed in an under-12 league.

The team of 12 primary school children have been crowned B League champions, having been allowed the opportunity to play up a year against players of secondary school age in the Colchester and District League.

Colchester Villa under-11s exceeded expectations, winning 21 of their 22 league matches.

They have scored more than 100 league goals and have conceded just three times, with their goalkeeper yet to concede from open play in his 19 games.

The Colchester Villa team have enjoyed plenty of success since under-seven level, with eight of their players awarded academy contracts with the likes of Tottenham, West Ham and Ipswich.

Coach Matt Binks, who has been in charge of the team since under-seven level, said: “Even though the players have changed, as we have had to reassemble the squad each year, the values and ideals of the team have always remained.

“This current crop have been superb all season and are an absolute pleasure to coach, making me proud each and every week.

“A key component of our success has been the boys’ use of Futsal (a South American infused version of football that helps hones creativity, problem solving and speed of play).

“The boys attend weekly sessions with Colchester Futsal Club, playing games all over Essex.

“Eight of the boys also represented the British Futsal Academy this year winning the Winter Academy Futsal Cup.

“We now look forward to next year and the challenge of trying to win the A League.”