Courtesy: Ilford Recorder


European influence at London Futsal Cup

French team could inspire local involvement

Saturday, July 6, 2013

Youth and adult players have the chance to play at an Olympic-standard facility on an international pitch if they sign-up for the SportHouse London Futsal Cup in July and August at Mayesbrook Park in Dagenham, and a team from outside the UK have already committed to taking part in the tournament.

ASMB Futsal Club, based in France, will be competing in the adult competition and the organisers are optimistic it might inspire possible further interest, both from clubs in Essex and abroad. The youth qualifiers will be taking place on Saturday 13th July between 9:00am-5:00pm for Under 10s to 16s, while the adult male and female qualifiers will be split between Saturday, August 3 (8:00am-6:00pm) and Sunday, August 4 (8:00am-12:00pm).

Recognised and supported by FIFA, UEFA and The FA, Futsal is now played worldwide and differs from the regular five-a-side style familiar to many in the UK. The main differences are marked lines rather than rebound boards as well as square goals, heavier and ‘reduced bounce’ balls and a strict five-foul discipline law. It encourages closer ball control and the game can prove a useful tool for players looking to improve their touch and technique.

The finals for both the youths and adults will be on the Sunday from 1:00-6:00pm when there will also be family fun in the shape of a charity raffle, crossbar challenge and a penalty shootout. The entry fee is £40 per youth team and £80 per adult side, but discounts are on offer for clubs entering more than one side.

SportHouse hope the event will showcase Futsal, and their modern facility, so spectators can also come along to watch for an admission of £2.50 for adults and £1.50 for children over eight, while children under eight get in for free. A café bar will be serving a variety of hot and cold food and drinks throughout, and teams can pre-order specific items in advance.

Payment can be taken by cash, cheque or card over the phone on (020) 3004 4123, and further details are available via E-Mail at claire.eaton@sporthouse.co.uk or online at www.sporthouse.co.uk. The deadlines for entry are Friday 5th July (youth) and Friday 26th July (adults). An application form can also be downloaded from the Essex County FA website at www.essexfa.com






Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com