On a warm sunny day in Coventry teams from all over the UK came together for the Autumn National 6-a-side Championships to see who could join Stockport (Spring 2008) as this years Champion of Champions.
As usual , the first part of the day involved Group Stages with the top two teams in each Group going forward to the knockout stages. Particular mention goes to Hereford A (WX Whites) who started in the bottom Hereford Division two years ago and now were representing their town as Champions of Hereford. Unfortunately they narrowly missed out on progressing to the knockout stage.
Teams who were knocked out in the last 32 included Walsall C, Swindon H, Moseley C, highly fancied Cannock A (losing to eventual quarter-finalists Northwich B), Cannock C, Weston B, Redditch A, Braintree C (losing to eventual finalists Cleethorpes B), pre-tournament favourites Burntwood A (losing to Swadlincote), Eastleigh B, Swindon I, Burntwood F, Runcorn B, Bedford A and Cannock N.
Teams who were knocked out in the last 16 included Lincoln C (losing to eventual Champions Northwich C), Redditch B, Birmingham E, Shrewsbury B, Swadlincote C, Nuneaton E, Exeter B and Mountsorrell.
In the quarters Cleethorpes E defeated Exeter A whilst Burntwood G beat Burntwood B. In the other section another derby saw Northwich C defeat Northwich B whilst Solihull B beat Cheshunt D.
Two extremely high standard semi-finals, showing off the very cream of small sided football in the UK, saw Northwich defeat Solihull and and Cleethorpes defeat Burntwood, two surprising results leaving two unfancied teams to face each other for the coveted title and prizes.
The Grand Final was a fast, skilful and superb match played in a wonderful spirit between two classy outfits, fully justifying their inclusion in the Final. Northwich eventually emerged 1-0 winners against Cleethorpes and lifted the prestigious trophy.
Teams that had their photographs taken on the day can order them free of charge by contacting your Office Area Manager.
Below see a slideshow of the days photos!