Community Day the biggest yet

Glorious weather and unexpected publicity opportunities caused by Ron Atkinson’s racist on-air description of Marcel Desailly may have helped to make the 5th Community Day held by Football Unites and Sheffield United the biggest yet, as thousands attended the free event to show their support for a diverse and tolerant community.

Sheffield United opened its doors to the local communities and over 200 young people from many different ethnic groups had the opportunity to play in 6-a-side tournaments on the Bramall Lane pitch. The winners of the tournaments were: Under 12: Academy Shotters; Under 14: World Dream Team; Under 16: Newfield School; Over 17: Unity FC. United stars Jonathan Forte and Jake Speight were there to present the winners with their trophies and medals.

The finale of the day was the annual 11-a-side match for the Community Cup. The winners were Sharrow United who retained the trophy with a 3-1 win over the African Dream Team, appearing for the first time.

Visitors not involved in the football tournaments were well catered for with Streetkick, a bouncy castle and slide, clown, boxing exhibition with Brendan Ingle’s gym, a young people’s talent contest, stalls including henna painting and hair braiding, food and displays.