Tower Hamlets Hockey Club made it back-to-back titles in the East League as a 6-0 win over Maldon Academy saw them crowned champions of Division Nine South East.

East London Advertiser: Tower Hamlets Hockey Club chairman Shuhel Malique and coach Abdul WahidTower Hamlets Hockey Club chairman Shuhel Malique and coach Abdul Wahid (Image: Archant)

Formed only in 2016, they stormed to the Division 10 title with an unbeaten record in their debut season, scoring the highest number of goals across the league.

And they have maintained that momentum this season, to earn promotion to Division Eight, with two games to spare.

The recent wintry weather forced them to wait for the chance to secure another title, but Maldon arrived at Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre looking to boost their fight for survival.

After a cagey start from both teams, Tower Hamlets were able to open up Maldon with their trademark pass and move style.

Anchored by senior players in midfield, the highlight of the Tower Hamlets team is the young talent throughout the squad, with the starting line-up featuring six players under the age of 18, including two 13-year-olds.

The combination of youth and experience proved key as Rej Haque, Ed Fall, Kobirul Islam Kobz, Abdul Wahid, Khanh Trinh and Danny Du netted to make it 16 wins in 19 matches this season.

Coach Abdul Wahid said: “This season, the challenge was always set to be much more of a difficult one, as the team would come up against more established and longstanding hockey clubs such as Waltham Forest, Saffron Walden and local rivals Wapping.

“The Wapping men’s 11th team have established a friendly rivalry with Tower Hamlets, both teams progressed from Division 10 together, and with both sides securing promotion, will progress together yet again into Division Eight.”

Tower Hamlets have two fixtures left at the Olympic Park, against Waltham Forest this weekend and with Wapping on March 24.