Bondz leading by example

Forest Gate-born Bondz 'Gala was wearing the broadest smile in east London after scoring a sublime goal in West Ham United's 6-0 reserve-team win over Birmingham City.

The 19-year-old could barely contain his delight after curling a superb 25-yard shot into the top-corner, celebrating the goal with an unforgettable jig in front of the Sir Trevor Brooking Stand.

After leading the Hammers to a fine first Barclays Premier Reserve League South victory of the season, the reserve-team captain was all smiles when interviewed by fellow Forest Gate native Tony Cottee on WHUTV.

"For my goal, the ball has gone to the edge of the box, Josh Payne has picked it up and passed to me. I've turned, seen the 'keeper off his line and just gone for it. I've always dreamed of scoring a goal like that and I'll be lucky to score another one in my career like that."

CLICK HERE TO WATCH TONY COTTEE INTERVIEW BONDZ 'GALA

When asked what his celebratory dance was all about, 'Gala admitted his sheer elation had got the better of him.

"Well, I haven't done a celebration for a while, so I thought I'd enjoy it!"

After being named as an unused substitute for the Barclays Premier League visit of Stoke City last December, 'Gala has continued to make good progress as part of Alex Dyer's reserve team.

Having impressed at both ends of the pitch in front of the watching Gianfranco Zola and Steve Clarke against Birmingham, the teenager has now set his sights on making his first-team debut.

"I think I'm doing alright. Being made reserve-team captain is always an honour, so I hope to carry on progressing and push on into the first team. It's definitely a dream of mine to be part of the first team, to break through and play regularly. I'd like to do that at some point this season.

"It's definitely going to be difficult to break in, but I can only learn from players like Matty Upson and James Tomkins, who is also doing well. It can only help my game."