London APSA became the first British Asian Team to compete in the FA Cup when they took on Halstead town FC on Friday 19^th August 2005

The predominantly Muslim team have made giant leaps to challenge the under-representation of young Asians in mainstream British sports since the club was established in East London in 1993 drawing players from the local communities.

London APSA's aim has been to push forward Asian football in England and qualifying for the FA Cup has been heralded by many as a major success having only been awarded senior status by The FA in 2003.

London APSA chairperson Zulfi Ali watched as his side lost 0-2 to Ridgenons Premier Halstead Town FC. Joined by Football Focus and Sony Entertainment TV, he had this to say, “A momentous occasion for all at the club and for many aspiring young Asians. The cameras at the game gives the game that much more profile and any publicity received either for our selves or Sporting Bengals is greatly received for the benefit of Asian’s in football.

"Our participation in this year's competition is a mammoth achievement and a great boost for the Asian community in this country. This is a real opportunity for us to prove that Muslims are very much part of the fabric of this society," he said.

"Not winning tonight’s game does not deter us from continuing in our plight to develop players for the future and we will ready to play again in 2006 Inshallah.”

Game report:
APSA started brightly, but were clearly no match for the much fancied Halstead Town. APSA’s hard work and die hard attitude kept the Town from scoring in the opening few minutes. Goal keeper Adam kept APSA well in the game and denied several early shots on goal.

APSA’s strike partnership of Pain and Dakri worked hard and a clean shot in each half gave APSA slim hope of scoring against this well oiled and well paid Ridgeons Premier Team.

Halstead scored both their goals in the 1^st half on 23 minutes and 44 minutes. APSA stuck to their defensive guns in the 2^nd half and were only thwarted from scoring by some die hard defending from Halstead.

Speaking to Manager john Higley “Although we lost today, we can take much hope from the resilient performance. The players are improving by the day and we will see the club go from strength to strength. I’m here to help the people of APSA and will strive to ensure we deliver the best ASAIN players to the public. I just hope we can get back home to NEWHAM at the terence Macmillan Stadium as soon as possible.”