OXFORD MAIL YOUTH LEAGUE

A RECORD number of teams have entered the league this season after organisers revamped the format, writes MATTHEW BRUCE.

But concerns have been raised that with more teams competing every weekend than ever before pitch congestion could be a problem.

“Obviously with more teams, it puts those pitches more in demand and it’s always been tight, but I think we’ll be okay,” said Didcot Casuals Under 9s manager Adam Parsons.

“We did struggle last year after the bad weather and we had to play some games on the school pitch.

“We mark the pitches out every year and I think this season we’re trying to squeeze another five-a-side pitch in.”

But Parsons added: “Obviously it means that we’re going to need a lot more involvement from parents.

“But we’re quite lucky here because we’ve divided into two teams and had enough parents volunteer to be able to do that.”

THE decision that leagues will no longer be permitted to publish results and tables from under 9s and below has been less well received.

“The changes are all for the greater good, but it’s disappointing for my lads because they’ll miss out on having their results reported in the paper,” said Oxford Blackbirds Under 9s manager Stuart Parsons.

“I don’t see any problem with reporting the results and it’s a shame for the boys because it’s something they look forward to.”

Chris Cording, manager of Abingdon Youth Under 9 Yellows, said: “I remember when I was a boy and looking for my name in the paper and it’s a shame that these lads will miss out on that because I think they’d be chuffed to get a mention.

“I don’t think it’s a competitive thing, but it’s nice for them to get the recognition if they’ve done well.

“And for those who haven’t been successful, they can see the headlines others are getting and be inspired.”