Hampton School pupils have been crowned the 2019 English Schools’ Football Association U18 Schools’ Cup champions.

The Hampton 1st XI won the prestigious ESFA trophy with a hard-fought victory over Repton School in the U18 Final played at Shrewsbury Town FC.

This is the first time that Hampton have won this competition and the historic victory was greeted with delight by the 700 supporters made up of pupils, staff, parents and alumni, who made the 170-mile journey to Montgomery Waters Meadow.

1st XI Captain, George Maxwell, who has been awarded a sports scholarship to study in the USA next year, said it was a wonderful day for the whole Hampton community: “It was probably the best day of my School life to date and one that I will never forget.

“I’d love to thank all the travelling supporters who made such a difference and our coaches for all of their help and guidance.

“We set ourselves a target to win a major trophy at the start of the year and to win the biggest sixth form cup in Schools’ football is a wonderful achievement. A fantastic way to end our Hampton footballing careers.”

Dressed in School colours, wearing lion costumes, bearing scarves and waving a range of homemade banners, the supporters sang in full voice from start to finish, during a match that had to be decided on penalties.

It was to be Hampton’s day with goal-keeper Tim Wallace blocking any attempt by the Repton penalty strikers to find the back of the net.

John Martin, ESFA Chairman said: “On behalf of the English Schools’ FA (ESFA) I would like to congratulate Hampton on becoming ESFA U18 Schools’ Cup Champions 2019.

“In what was a true showcase of elite footballing talent, Hampton reigned victorious after enduring both extra time and penalties.

“We would like to thank the school for bringing along 700 plus spectators to Shrewsbury, helping to create a truly wonderful atmosphere throughout the entirety of the match. Well done to all those involved.”