West Ham United were crowned U18 Premier League Cup champions for the first time in the club’s history with a gritty 2-1 win over Reading on Tuesday night.

It was the young Hammers’ talisman, Josh Ajala, who stole the show with a clinical brace to down the hosts at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Lauris Coggin’s side made a confident start and got their reward on 17 minutes. A Sowunmi corner was flicked on by Ezra Mayers, and Ajala, unmarked, tapped home to give the Irons the lead.

Reading levelled 16 minutes later when Carter Bowdery curled in a superb strike from the edge of the area, leaving Awesu with no chance.

With extra time looming, Ajala rose to the occasion once again. Rayan Oyebade’s pinpoint pass found Sowunmi, who clipped in a brilliant cross that Ajala nodded home with 13 minutes to play.

Reading pushed hard for an equaliser, but a heroic late block and a crucial save from Awesu preserved the victory, sparking wild celebrations from the travelling West Ham supporters.

Head coach Coggin said after the game; “It means so much. I’ve seen a lot of their journey.

Not just us as staff and players, but the whole Academy. To win it at the end of a long competition is a fantastic feeling for everyone.”

Claret & Hugh would like to congratulate everyone involved in the epic win which is a massive boost for the academy and the club as a whole.