For the first time in history, FSA PRO have won back to back Men's Cat One titles as FSA PRO London clinched the 2022-2023 league trophy.
As we look back on their league campaign, it’s impossible to ignore some key stats that clinched the ECFA Mens Cat One trophy. 38 goals in 12 league games saw an average over 3 goals a game with a 9 game unbeaten streak.
FSA PRO London took an early set back at the start of the season when losing to Fab Academy away. It was a day to forget as we FAB Academy, a game riddled with errors costing them their first loss in over 12 months. FSA coach James Laughton said "We knew the season was a marathon, not a sprint and a 3-1 victory away to Worthing college put us back to winning ways and helped the lads believe the title could be won again"
The next few games went to plan for FSA as the camp were full of confidence and remained hard to beat. After an impressive win away to Bracknell Town eliminating them out of the run for the title It would come down to an away win against Pro Direct Dorset. It was a tricky game at the start, Pro Direct were stubborn, hard to break down and causing some headaches for FSA. Coaches knew they had to remain switched on, ready for an opportunity to pounce. It finally came with 38 minutes on the clock when striker George Hughes was alert to a second ball and smashed it home from close range and giving FSA a half time lead knowing they were just 45 minutes away from back to back titles for the first time in history. FSA went on to win the game 5-0 and Worthing College dropping points meant mathematically the league title was won.
After the title was clinched, FSA PRO London head coach Jacques Michell reflected on the past few months:
"It’s been a season that has needed everyone in the squad. Plenty of call ups for our young first years who have stepped up and proven their importance to the team. On the other hand, we’ve had success with players being signed and moving onto bigger and better things. A sting for FSA PRO London in the National Trophy charge but nonetheless an opportunity for players to stand up to the test. It’s clear to see the talent and squad depth we’ve had again this season and the future is looking bright"
What’s next for FSA?
With both leagues wrapped up and another League Title to add to our history books, it’s time to focus on the Nationals. This season has been even more competitive to get a place in the Nationals as only one team from each top league get a place in the national tournament. The draw for the nationals takes place on Thursday 23rd March.
Dates to put in the diary:
Nationals Quarter Final - Wednesday 29th March
Nationals Semi Final - Wednesday 26th April
Nationals Final @Crewe Alexandra FC on Wednesday 10th May (KO 7pm tbc)