New-look Manchester Div Two League

A new-look Manchester Division Two football competition will take place this Saturday, with Power Services Ltd, sponsor for the last three years, retained.

Unusual interest and some controversy has been created as a new youth component is introduced at this level by the Manchester FA for the first time. Traditionally, an open registration policy existed for just about any community, club or organisation that wanted to participate.

There is, however, a decisive shift with mandatory inclusion of a set number of players under the age of 17. For example, all teams as part of their 30-player registration must have 15 players so defined , and at least five must be involved on the field of play.

Despite the concerns of some clubs who claim the policy does not represent their club set-up which usually maintains an adult base, FA president Dale Spencer is adamant that the association is more focused towards getting clubs share its vision of having more sustainable club structures and player retention.

- Richard Bryan