BUCKHURST HILL U12s are getting used to life as the best team in all of Essex.

Today the youngsters sit top of the pile in their age group, ahead of up to 100 other teams from across the county.

Victory in the U12 County Cup is what has propelled the side, coached by Brad Maltese, to the heights.

He oversaw the recent win against Woodford Youth in the 2-0 final of the competition, when goals from Maltese and skipper Kemp made the difference.

Mr Maltese said: “These boys just didn’t give up. Our boys raised their level.”