Aston Villa claim Hong Kong Soccer 7’s Shield

Aston Villa’s Under-23 team rounded off a season of success by claiming the Hong Kong Soccer 7’s Shield earlier today.

After storming through a three-game group stage with three wins, thanks to eight goals, Aston Villa blasted their way past Kashima Antlers before dispatching West Ham United in the final.

Villa were competing for the secondary honour on the day, having been knocked out of the main tournament earlier on by last year’s winners, Leicester City.

Villa spent much of the seven-a-side tournament defining an exciting play-style that revolved around playing out from the back, moments of individual brilliance, and perfectly executed tap-ins. Take this from Callum O’Hare for example:

If you want some goal-scoring action, this goal from Harvey Knibbs probably shows Villa’s play-style off the most. Roving, direct, purposeful:

Finally, what about some individual brilliance from Corey Blackett-Taylor?

Wearing sweat drenched shirts, Villa were more than deserving of holding the HK Soccer 7’s shield aloft. This annual tournament has a heavy Villa pedigree, with AVFC claiming no less than five main tournament titles in the 14 years that they have been competing.

The future, as they say, is bright!