Hundreds of spectators enjoyed a lively match between Whyteleafe FC and West Ham United at a friendly match played at the Church Road ground recently. David Gold, the co-owner of West Ham and patron of Whyteleafe FC attended the match, that was won by West Ham 2-0 on Tuesday, 15th November.

The goals were scored by Dominic Vose and Olly Lee of the West Ham development squad watched by coach Ian Hendon. Also playing for West Ham was the Ivory Coast international, Guy Demel and number two goalkeeper, Peter Kurucz.

Chairman of Whyteleafe FC, Mark Coote was delighted at the opportunity to showcase his club to the local community. He said: "This match demonstrates how we can cope with any club coming down to our premises. It doesn't phase us. It gives us the opportunity to show what we can do when everyone pulls together. It is great for the local people and reminds them of what an asset they have on their doorstep."

A match between the two clubs had been on the cards for some time and it was a good experience for the West Ham development squad, with the Whyteleafe players making it "difficult at times" according to the West Ham coach.

Mark Coote believes the Whyteleafe senior team, that is in Division 1 of the Ryman League, is starting to feel the benefit of the youngsters going up from the junior section that was set up in 1996.

"The junior section is the Manchester United of the junior league!" he said.

"We have 11 junior teams that are a tremendous asset and they deserve our support. They have been awarded the Charter Standard which means they have met massive criterior and can wear the Three Lions. Two of our junior managers, Chris Field and John Rogan were instrumental in taking the junior section to that level."