The end of jumpers for goalposts?

The great thing about football used to be that you could do it anywhere. The only equipment necessary was a ball, your street, some other kids and then whatever spare clothes you had to make the goals. There’s even a phrase for it: “jumpers for goalposts.” It’s the tried and trusted way that players like Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard, Joe Cole and others honed their skills. Not sure where Phil Neville did his.

But the city council of Glenfield, Leicestershire in England has put a stop to all that. They received several complaints about kids indulging in some football frivolity and will now impose £100 fines on anyone caught playing in the street.

In fairness, the council has a point. There are a more cars about than ever and therefore less space for impromptu kickabouts. But the Glenfield street in question is a cul-de-sac (dead end street in the suburbs) and not a main road.

Have to feel sorry for those poor kids though. There’s nothing better than coming home from school, not doing your homework, then playing the beautiful game in the street until your mum calls you in and tells you off for ruining your new shoes. Could be worse though, if that cul-de-sac was at an altitude of 8,200 feet or more they’d never be allowed to play.

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Category: World Football