ENGLAND Schoolboy hopefuls Taylor Jacobi and Riley Weir fired White Ensign to a 2-0 win against West Essex in the FA Vase.

The sharp-shooting duo have made it to stage two of three in making the final Three Lions squad.

And they both showed off their skills by scoring in the second round tie, much to the delight of boss Aaron Bloxham.

“They’re two youngsters who were playing kids football,” said Bloxham.

“Riley did play a bit of men’s football last year with Corinthians but it’s a massive jump coming into the Essex Senior League.

“He’s taken to it extremely well and he’s a really humble lad.

“Taylor wasn’t getting chances at the beginning of the season but he didn’t come knocking.

“He kept his head down and kept on working hard.

“He produced a moment there that he can do and has done the last few games.

“He continues to grow and good luck to them both with English Schoolboys too.

“It’s great for the club and for them so I hope they go all the way and get picked in the full squad.”

Plenty to celebrate - White Ensign show their joy at the final whistlePlenty to celebrate - White Ensign show their joy at the final whistle (Image: NICKY HAYES)

The 17-year-olds both started Sunday’s clash at Burroughs Park and it was Jacobi who fired Ensign in front after just 10 minutes.

The winger cut in from the left hand side before scoring with a swerving 20 yard shot which deceived West Essex goalkeeper Lewis Edwards.

Ensign then made sure of the win with a smartly taken effort from Weir at the start of the second half.

And Bloxham was delighted to see his side make it through to the third round where they will host Thetford Town.

“It was a tough game and certainly wasn’t easy,” said Bloxham.

“I felt we deserved the win but there were moments and opportunities for both teams.

“I think that’s our third or fourth clean sheet on the bounce now and we’ve really worked hard on that.

“It’s pleasing for the guys to get it and we defended everything we needed to defend.

“Brad (Davison) made a couple of good saves and overall it’s amazing for the club so I’m very happy.”

The victory continued a solid start to the season for Ensign who sit 11th in the Essex Senior League standings.

But Bloxham is slightly frustrated not to be higher in the standings.

“It’s been good but we’re disappointed as well,” said Bloxham.

“At times we’ve taken our foot off the gas in games we could’ve gone on and won.

“Being a young squad that happens and you have to learn to control it.

“You have to try and teach them not to be like that.

“We’ve asked that of them these last three games and they’ve done it.

“Hopefully that can progress into the league now and we can push on.”