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Academy pair shine in UK matches

Nakhi Wells (left) has been in good form for the International Academic Soccer Academy (IASA) in the UK.

Nahki Wells and Tahj Bell both played influential roles in the International Academic and Soccer Academy's (IASA) 3-1 win over York City's youth academy at the weekend.

UK-based IASA have now won both of their matches this season, having thrashed a young Hull City reserve team 5-1 a fortnight ago.

Former Dandy Town striker Wells helped himself to a hat-trick in that match.

CJ Lyle, a US national team prospect, opened the scoring for the IASA against York City following a pinpoint 30-yard ball from Wells.

The Bermuda international then put Lyle through again who saw his shot parried by the City goalkeeper into the path of Brandon Roane who finished from close range.

Ellis, the IASA director of football, said he was thrilled with the quality of his team's attacking play and praised Bermuda Under-23 goalkeeper Tahj Bell for his impressive performance between the sticks.

"We looked very dangerous going forward every time we attacked; however, the second half was a different story as York came more into the game. It was only good goalkeeping by Tahj Bell (Bermuda) that helped keep the defensive line tight," said Ellis, a former Bradford City winger.

" . . . it was CJ Lyle's ability to go past players with his quick feet and hit a great shot into the back of the net that gave us back the two-goal lead. He continues his very impressive goal scoring record in the games we have played.

"Overall the whole squad looked solid against what was a more powerful outfit than Hull. It was another good opportunity to show what the IASA players can do."

Wells and Bell enrolled on a four-year course at the IASA in August, which will enable them to pursue an American degree while developing their football skills with top level coaching and against quality professional youth academies.

Bermuda Football Association (BFA) technical director Derek Broadley recommended both players to the IASA.