5-a-side triumph for YouGov
11 July 2018

In sweltering heat, 17 teams took part in the 21st annual MRS 5-a-side tournament at Hanwell Town FC on Sunday 1 July. Those watching were treated to some good spirited, competitive football but, alas, no ladies tournament this year.

The group stages proceeded without too much fuss, although one group had to be decided on ‘fewest yellow cards’ (a ruling imported from the World Cup) and one game was spoilt somewhat by overzealous refereeing leading to a hotly disputed penalty (sorry again, Zappistore).

But then it was onto the knockouts, with IFF, YouGov2, Populus and RDS emerging victorious from the quarter finals. Tense semis followed resulting in YouGov and new boys RDS going on to contest the final - and they produced a decent encounter. RDS grabbed the lead and looked like they might hold on until two late goals sealed it for YouGov.

Then, as is customary, it was off to the bar for the presentation of the trophies, some liquid refreshment and a chance to watch Russia oust Spain on the big screen.