PROUD manager Shawn Kitcher has praised the “discipline, desire and determination” of AFC Totton’s double-winning under-16 team.

With the Stags determined to feed more teenage talent through to their Southern League side, the exploits of Kitcher’s young troops bodes well for the future.

Having won the Under-16 Hampshire Cup in March with a convincing 3-0 win over Fareham Town at Hampshire FA’s Winklebury stadium, they followed it up by clinching the Southampton Division One title, beating Eastleigh White 6-1 in their last game of the season.

Kitcher said: “AFC Totton is thriving with young talent at the moment, which can only be good news for (first-team boss) Steve Hollick and his managerial team.

“This group of under-16s have been fantastic this season, on and off the field.

“They have shown discipline, desire and determination – you cannot ask for anything else.

“Obviously winning the Hampshire Cup early was excellent, but to go on and win the league was the icing on the cake, especially as they had to play their last six games in 14 days.”

The character of Totton’s young side shone through when they managed to beat Winchester Black 2-1, despite playing the second half with only ten men because of an injury to Matthew Brewer.

Two days later the casualty list had grown longer and they had to play a full match against Romsey Town Cougars a man down.

Against the odds they clawed their way back from 2-0 down to 2-2 and, despite falling behind again, managed to salvage a 3-3 draw thanks to a stunning Ollie Dennett volley with 60 seconds remaining.

“It was that game that gave them the inspiration and belief that they could do it,” smiled Kitcher. “They drew one more game and won their last three, which was amazing really.”

Even more amazingly, eight of that under-16 team – Daniel Poynter, William Lovell, Joe Atherton, Connor Summers, James Parker-Trott, Harry Harris, Brewer and Dennett – have been regulars for Totton’s reserves – a massive achievement considering their tender age.

AFC Totton will shortly be holding trials for their Hampshire Youth League under-18 side.

Open trial sessions will be held at Testwood Recreation Ground, Totton (SO40 3RA), on Tuesdays June 2 and June 9 (6.30-8pm).

A third and final trial, which will be invitation only, is scheduled for Tuesday, June 16 at the same time and venue.

Interested players are asked to contact Shawn Kitcher on 07824 668747 or email him at skitcher7@sky.com Please state your name, age, contact number, the position you play and your previous club as it will help prepare for trial nights.