Eaton & Cringleford

Grassroots football at its best

Just Regional

Sep 2, 2026 3 mins read

Cringleford Junior FC chairman Dan Brown has thanked all who contributed to making the club’s giant international youth tournament at Easton College “a truly special event.”

He said: “Across the weekend, we were privileged to watch some outstanding football played in the right spirit. Seeing more than 1,000 young players and over 4,000 people come together to enjoy the event was an incredible sight and something that made us all immensely proud.

“The quality of football on display was exceptional, but just as importantly, so was the sportsmanship, respect and enjoyment shown by players, coaches and supporters alike.

“A special thank-you must go to coaches and team volunteers for everything they do behind the scenes throughout the season and during events like this. Tournaments of this scale only succeed because of the dedication of adults who give up their time to support young people and create positive football experiences.

“To parents and supporters, thank-you for the positivity, encouragement and support you showed throughout the weekend. The atmosphere around the pitches was fantastic and helped make the event enjoyable for everyone involved.”

He described the players from 128 teams from all over the country and abroad as “a credit to their clubs. Their effort, determination, skill and behaviour throughout the tournament embodied everything that is great about grassroots football.”

Chris Good added: “My team (the Cringleford U11 Lions) finished runners-up on both days. Heartbreak (lost on penalties on the Saturday, and a last kick of the match goal on the Sunday), but I’m so proud of them, and they continue to grow as a team and as brilliant young people!”

The annual pre-tournament coaches game between Rouen and the host club saw the French visitors win 3-1.

“It was a tight game,” said Chris. “At 2-1, Cringleford missed a few sitters to draw level and take it to penalties.

“They pushed forward and conceded a third in the last minute of the game. It was a good game though. And there were no injuries! We raised £600 for the Finnbar’s Force charity.”