Edinburgh South CFC Whites U13s crowned SERYFA Division Four champions as they aim to end the season unbeaten

The 2021/2022 season has been a year to remember for Edinburgh South Whites U13s after being crowned champions of South East Region Youth Association (SERYFA) Division Four.

However, the season is not over yet for Paige Lawson’s side as they aim to become ‘invincibles’ and go 20 games unbeaten this weekend with their final home game against Eyemouth at Inch Park.

Looking back, there was one match which the vast majority of the team believed to be their most memorable, the first game of the season. Lawson said:

“We found ourselves 1-0 down against Bonnyrigg Rose very early on from a superb free kick just outside the box. It took us a while to get back into the game though to level the scoring. However, the second-half was just a whirlwind from the Whites and we stole the three points with ease.”

Despite having had a hugely successful season, there were moments that proved to be challenging for the players, particularly in cup competitions. Lawson continued:

“We were knocked out in the First Round of the Scottish Cup by Shotts Bon Accord, the same stage of the South East Region Cup by Third Division side Bonnyrigg Rose. We were then knocked out the League Cup by Currie Cruzeiro with a sublime free kick in the final six minutes. However, we finally gained some ground when we welcomed Currie Cruzeiro to Inch Park, and beat them 2-0 to set up a quarter final tie with North Merchiston, where they sadly  knocked us out on penalties.”

The Whites suffered a rough patch performance-wise around the Christmas period, but it was from that point onwards that the team believed they could push themselves into the mix for the league title. Lawson explained:

“We met Castlevale at Jewel Park on a horrendous Sunday morning. The pitch was dreadful, the rain never stopped, we were soaked and freezing, and the coaches just stood and thought ‘how are we going to play football on this?’

“Little did we know, the boys had other ideas, and they actually produced a brilliant game of football, and sealed yet another three points. We have no idea how they managed it! This was the turning point for us, and that was the moment everyone started to believe this might just be our season.”

The team have yet to hold their Presentation Night, so Lawson remained coy when disclosing any individual players who could potentially be receiving an award for their efforts this season.

However, she mentioned the teams unsung hero, club secretary, Danielle Hayward. Lawson did not hesitate when extending her gratitude to Hayward:

“She is the glue that holds this team together. She doesn’t just deal with the admin side, but she has formed friendships and memories that will never be forgotten. Even though she is not a coach, the boys worship her. This is her favourite team and she is not afraid to admit it. We want to thank her for everything she has done for us!”

The Whites have been on a remarkable run this season, having enjoyed a 19-game winning streak, with the chance to go a whole season unbeaten this weekend.

Reflecting on her league-winning team’s achievement this season, Lawson concluded:

“What these players have given us all season is nothing short of incredible. Even going a goal down, showing poor performances and thinking ‘we are not getting anything from this game today’, they prove me wrong. The grit and determination these boys have shown throughout the season, is something I am truly proud of.

“They have remained committed, resilient and they have genuinely been a pleasure to coach. We are all so proud of you!”

Everyone at YFS would like to extend their warmest congratulations to Edinburgh South CFC Whites Under 13s on winning the league and we wish them the best of luck for this weekend’s match.