Beach comp hits Wirral

Jun 4 2008 by Philip Kirkbride, Birkenhead News

BRAZILIAN-style beach football will be heading to the shores of New Brighton later this month.

The largest beach soccer competition in the UK is returning to Perch Fort, New Brighton on June 14.

Organised by the Birkenhead and Wirral Association Football League, the event is now in its 10th year and will feature 150 teams from ages eight upwards.

Matches will take place when the River Mersey is at its lowest, with pitches marked into the sand and trophies presented to the winning teams.

League secretary Joe Rooney said: “The contest was originally inspired by a Brazilian soccer competition also held on the Wirral some years ago, although that event was actually held on sand especially transported for the occasion to one of the grassed areas just behind the promenade.”

The cost to enter an eight player team is £25, while entering a side not affiliated with a county FA is £30.

For more information contact Birkenhead and Wirral AFL on 606 9935 or visit www.bwafl.co.uk