Arsenal Soccer Schools Dubai Makes Strong First Impression

Arsenal Soccer Schools Dubai proved it is a force to be reckoned with, with some great results during its first full season participating in the Dubai youth leagues.

Three of the school’s teams tasted success as they triumphed in their respective leagues.

The Arsenal7 team - captained by Archie Woods - managed to go through the entire season undefeated and only conceded three goals.

The Arsenal10 side won their division despite injuries conspiring to give them a challenging end to the season. Inspired by captain McKensie Hunt, they managed to hold on to their lead and finish the season as champions.

The Arsenal16 team had a tremendous season, losing only once during the campaign despite the fact they did not have a recognised goalkeeper. Everyone in the squad took turns in goal.

"It was quite simple - the lads knew they didn’t have an experienced goalie," said manager Mehran Rowshan. "So I told them the best way to play is make sure the opponents don’t get a shot on goal. To their credit they kept the ball brilliantly and other teams couldn’t hurt them."

The Arsenal6, 9 and 11 teams all finished runners-up in their leagues, with Arsenal9 denied the championship on goal difference - agonisingly it was only one goal that separated them from the top spot.

"It’s has been a tremendous experience for the players," said Head Coach Gareth Hamilton. "They have been training for a while now and we decided it was time to prove ourselves in a competitive format. I am really proud of the Arsenal boys who have represented the school brilliantly.

"They tried to play "Arsenal" football every time they set foot on the pitch and it has shown they can produce the goods when asked. Their conduct off the field was also of the very highest standard and I have to congratulate them on that too."

Arsenal Soccer Schools Dubai is now hoping it can enter more sides in the leagues with the aim being to give every player who attends ASSD the opportunity to play competitively if they wish.