South Essex College’s football teams are enjoying a season to remember.

Coached by Southend United legend Steve Tilson, the first team have worked their way through to the final of the Essex Open Cup.

But the success does not stop there.

“We’ve got four teams and it’s gone really well for all of them,” said Tilson.

“The first team are in the National Alliance League and we’re third at the moment, a couple of points behind Aveley and Heybridge.

“We’ve had a fantastic season and the second team are currently second in Essex Division Two.

“We’ve got a team in Division Three East Region and one in Division Three South Region who are doing well too.

“The third team are second and the fourth team have already won the league so the boys have done fantastically well.

“We’re really pleased with how they’re doing.”

But the first team have been leading the way and are now also looking forward to a cup final.

“We’re through to the final of the Essex Open Cup,” said Tilson.

“We beat Seevic 4-0 in the semi-final and played well.

“Shamari Perkins got two goals and Zack Poulson got two as well.

“On the day I thought we played ever so well and deserved the win.

“Being a local derby made it extra special for the boys but we just have to wait and see where the final is being played now and who we’re playing as well because the other semi-final hasn’t taken place yet.”

Tilson’s youngsters train regularly at the Len Forge Centre in Southend as well as Wellstead Gardens in Westcliff.

And Tilson is relishing his role in the scheme.

“Football’s in my blood and I love it,” said Tilson.

“It’s nice to see the boys develop as footballers and as people as well.

“For me that’s one of the most rewarding things.

“You’re seeing them grow up and the bonus is seeing them improving as footballers as well.”

The footballers, who are aged between 16 and 19, combine their training with their studies at the college.

And the programme continues to grow in popularity.

“We’ve got 70 boys on the scheme and hopefully that number will go up next year and so will the quality as well,” said Tilson.

“It’s great to be a part of it.”