An impressive display from the young Blues saw them demolish Merstham 7-1 at Kingsmeadow, cruising into the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup with a commanding performance. Shumaira Mheuka shone brightest, netting a spectacular hat-trick in a game that showcased Chelsea’s attacking prowess and relentless intensity.
Chelsea began the game with purpose, and it didn’t take long for their dominance to show. Mheuka opened the scoring with a dazzling solo effort, beating his marker before calmly slotting past the Merstham goalkeeper. Ryan Kavuma-McQueen doubled the lead soon after, powering a strike into the bottom corner.
The third goal came from Leo Cardoso, who delivered a clinical finish to keep Chelsea firmly in control. Mheuka then added a stunning second, rifling into the top corner. While Merstham managed to pull one back through Amari Perkins just before half-time, the Blues’ momentum was unshaken.
Chelsea wasted no time after the break. Mheuka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot following a foul on Reggie Walsh. Walsh, who was involved in much of Chelsea’s attacking play, later headed home from a Harry McGlinchey cross to make it six.
The final goal of the evening was a showstopper. Chizaram Ezenwata, fresh off the bench, delivered an acrobatic volley from a Charlie Holland cross to round off a near-perfect performance.
The young Blues showcased their depth, with every department contributing to the victory. Genesis Antwi’s pace down the right, Ollie Harrison’s control in midfield, and Hudson Sands’ reliability in goal were highlights of a team firing on all cylinders.
What’s Next?
Chelsea U18s now look ahead to a fifth-round clash against either Preston North End or Manchester United. The winner of their Friday meeting will host the Blues, who will surely enter the game brimming with confidence after such an emphatic win.
Chelsea (4-3-3)
Scorers: Mheuka (14, 32, 47), Kavuma-McQueen (23), Cardoso (28), Walsh (52), Ezenwata (89)
Merstham (4-4-2)
Scorer: Perkins (39)
Attendance: 1,202
This electrifying performance underscores Chelsea’s academy strength, offering fans and scouts alike plenty to celebrate as the journey in the FA Youth Cup continues.
