West Ham’s U18 side lost 3-2 against Chelsea at home in what was a competitive and hard fought London derby.

The young Hammers were ahead just two minutes in as forward Josh Ajala prodded home to give West Ham an early lead.

Chelsea quickly levelled the tie, with an equaliser just 90 seconds later as Reiss-Alexander Russell-Denny guided a long range finish into the top corner. Chelsea were in front before the half time whistle thanks to a goal from forward Frankie Runham, however West Ham gained some confidence and momentum producing an outstanding second half display.

Rayan Oyebade, who came off the Hammers bench fired home a brilliant volley into the roof of the net to equalise and make it 2-2, but it was not long before West Ham found themselves behind once more.

Russell-Denny scored his second of the game as his free kick went off of the post and into the bottom corner to put Chelsea back in front with 20 minutes left to play. The Hammers piled the pressure on Chelsea in the last 20 minutes of the tie, creating a host of opportunities to earn what would have been a well deserved draw.

Kevin Keen’s side however, were unable to find the goal they needed to snatch a point from their London rivals.

Despite their six match winning streak coming to an unfortunate end, West Ham’s U18’s remain top of the Premier League South Division, level on points with Tottenham having played one less game.

Wing back Emeka Adiele was happy with his side’s performance despite being unable to get a result, Adiele said: “I thought we all played well as a team and we did our best. We dominated the game in both halves and had our own chances.”

West Ham’s U18 side are back in action this Saturday lunchtime at home as they continue their league campaign against West Bromwich Albion.

Written by Finlay Jackson