The Hotpurs' preparations were very much like what these boys have been going through since their own soccer careers began at Albion SC. While the focus of the trip was all business, there was some down time to enjoy and relax. They spent an afternoon on a tour of London seeing a bit of the common history we all share between the “Olde English Empire” and the “Colonies”.  Some of the American traveling crew did get questioned by curious locals about whether or not “Yanks” really know how to play “the beautiful game."  The Albion athletes were quick to point out that recent history suggests that USA Soccer has earned its place on the global stage. Albion BU16 White looked forward to their chance to see just how much their professional Albion training and the experience playing at the highest levels of youth soccer in the USA had prepared them to compete against one of the best Academy teams the English have to offer.

With one day left on their exclusive training week at Tottenham, the Albion boys were greeted in the morning by Tottenham’s John McDermott for an intense, focused and very educational 2-hour training session to prepare for their friendly match with Tottenham's U16 Academy Squad. The coach put the boys through a series of drills, ending with a challenging 3-phase offensive attacking drill that combined 3v2 passing, looking for a through ball pass to get a off a strike, then a cross into the keeper's box, ending with a set piece  play. The drill encourages offensive creativity while challenging the defense to maintain their shape and adapt to the new focus of the offensive attack.  

After the training session, the afternoon was spent driving to White Hart Lane - the home of Tottenham Hotspurs. The team shopped at the Hotspurs Megastore, and then they went to their seats in the stadium, where they were thrilled to see that the Hotspurs had welcomed Albion SC in the official program. The game between Hotspurs and Chelsea was great fun and ended in a draw.

On the final day of the week-long training camp at Tottenham’s Training Facility, the boys met Hotspurs U16 Academy Team on one of the lush Academy training pitches for a friendly match. The game was fast paced, and Tottenham relied on their 4-3-3 with a focused intent to possess the ball.

Albion SC’s defensive scheme was designed to nullify Tottenham’s key players and counter at will. Albion’s creativity on one of their counter attacks led to the first goal.  Their second goal came off a corner volley leading to a header and followup goal. The game remained closely contested until the final whistle, with Albion winning 2-0. 

The Tottenham staff members were very generous, allowing Albion SC exclusive use of their facilities, giving the team unusual access to the grounds and allowing the team to view First Team training. Being a PUMA Premier Club does have its benefits, but this week was extraordinary. The continued growth and development for this team due to this experience is evident, and these challenges - travel, training, superior competition in difficult conditions - can only help improve everyone involved.

The Albion Crew Ready for Action Airport Photo Details: Front row, left-right: Jordan Bingham, Joseph Saad, Dylan Shackelford, Eli Bunton. Middle row, left-right: Oscar Ortega, Jose Merlo, Noah Bunton, Dontae Walker, Raul Martinez, Ari Lassiter. Back row, left-right: Noah Gins. Shane Mahvi, Tony Kirouac, Patrick Bunton, Garrett Franklin, Ian Bergman, Colin Webb, Ricardo Martinez, Dan Raeihle, Roy Lassiter