Courtesy: Bradford Telegraph Argus


Samba beat's all the rage in futsal

By Bill Marshall

Bradford got with the samba beat as Futsal Yorkshire organised a Brazilian Futsal Gala at the Richard Dunn Sports Centre.

The girls held centre stage in the morning of the day-long event with a friendly tournament for under-12s and under-13s to promote an indoor version of soccer with its heavier ball.

At under-12 level, six teams took part on a round-robin basis - FC Barsa (made up of Wigton Moor players), Burley Trojans, Thackley, Shelf, Gomersal/Cleckheaton and Horsforth St Margaret's.

No scores were recorded, however, as the emphasis was purely on participating and having fun.

At under-13 level, there were eight teams competing, split into two groups, but Batley Heat provided both finalists despite teams coming from further afield, such as Doncaster Rovers Belles. The standard of play in both girls' age groups was high and it is hoped that a girls' futsal league will start in the West Yorkshire area from next month.

Anyone interested in being involved should contact Howard Bowden on (0113) 2289202 or at hp.bowden@ntlworld.com There were also demonstration games featuring under-12 and under-16 boys' teams, and the day was finished off by an open-age friendly - the first in West Yorkshire.

Due to late injuries, Leeds team FC Barsa fielded a scratch side against a revitalised Manchester FC, who had two Brazilians and several eastern Europeans in their side as they warmed up for the FA National Conference League, which started on Sunday, March 2.

Barsa took the lead, but Manchester's strength eventually told.






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