As part of their centenary year celebrations, the Gulls will welcome West Ham United’s Under-21s to Park Lane for a special pre-season friendly on Saturday 18th July, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm.

Founded in 1926, Canvey Island FC are marking 100 years of football, community and memorable moments on the Essex coast. The centenary year is set to honour the club’s rich history, from its early beginnings to its rise through the non-league pyramid and famous FA Cup achievements. The visit of West Ham’s talented academy side is expected to be one of the headline events of the pre-season campaign, bringing together supporters past and present for a special occasion.

Over the decades, Canvey Island have built a proud reputation within non-league football. The club enjoyed one of the most successful periods in its history during the early 2000s, famously reaching the FA Cup Third Round in 2001 before facing Burnley at Turf Moor. The Gulls also lifted the FA Trophy in 2001 and won the Ryman Premier League title in 2004, achievements that remain defining moments in the club’s history.

The centenary celebrations are designed not only to recognise those successes on the pitch, but also the generations of players, volunteers and supporters who have helped shape the football club over the last 100 years.

This fixture fits the occasion, offering supporters the opportunity to watch some of the country’s brightest young talents while celebrating a landmark moment in the club’s history. With a large crowd anticipated at Park Lane, the match-up is expected to create a memorable atmosphere.

West Ham United’s Under 21s continue to earn recognition as one of the strongest development sides in the country. The ‘Academy of Football’ has produced countless top-level players over the years, and the current group has impressed with its attacking football and maturity against senior opposition in cup competitions and pre-season clashes.

The young Hammers have enjoyed positive form in development competitions and senior cup fixtures, including impressive victories in the National League Cup and EFL Trophy against experienced first-team opposition. Their performances have highlighted the depth of talent emerging from Rush Green, with players showing maturity well beyond their years.

Some key young Hammers to look out for include exciting young goalkeeper Finlay Herrick, who made his West Ham debut off the bench in the FA Cup quarter-final against Leeds in extra time. Herrick then went on to save Joel Piroe’s spot kick. Another promising prospect is attacking midfielder Joshua Ajala, who has made 16 appearances for the Hammers’ Under 21’s and has 11 goal contributions, from which directly firing home 7 goals in the Premier League 2.

For the Gulls, the fixture provides valuable preparation ahead of the new campaign while also bringing a high-profile academy side to Essex during a landmark year for the club. With a strong crowd expected and plenty of local interest surrounding the centenary celebrations, the match promises to be a memorable afternoon for both sets of supporters.

The pre-season friendly between Canvey Island and West Ham United Under 21’s takes place on Saturday 18th July at Park Lane, kicking off at 3pm, we hope to see you there!