Rising Stars U10s moved confidently into the knockout stages of the East Kent Youth League Festival Cup after finishing unbeaten in their three games to top their group at Baypoint Sports Club on Saturday.

Steve and Mark’s side started quickly on the front foot in their first game against St Margaret’s Colts, spreading the ball wide quickly at every opportunity. Lucas’s goal gave them a half time lead and he doubled his and Risers’ tally after the break smashing home a shot via the underside of the bar. Liam, who is always a threat at set pieces, poked home the third from close range following a corner.

The second match against Margate Youth was a tighter affair but Risers got a deserved winner thanks to Jake’s deflected shot. Knowing a point from their final game against Marsham Colts would be good enough to advance as group winners, Ethan and Roman ensured defensively Risers looked solid and compact in what was a very tight encounter. Kieran was called into action in the second half to make a great save and Lucas was unlucky not to grab a winner.

Sully prove a handful all afternoon for opposition defenders while Freddie impressed with some nice touches, passes and movement in central midfield.

- Mark