League winners Talacre Colts

Published: 17 July, 2014
by CATHERINE ETOE

ONE of the longest-standing leagues in Camden continued to show its quality this week with a thrilling cup final topped off by a celebratory medal ceremony.

The weekly five-a-side Talacre Football League was started up for primary school aged pupils by Talacre ­Play­centre in Kentish Town in 1986.

It has given the likes of professionals Marlon Harewood and Joe Cole the chance to play competitive football in their formative years.

And this week young footballers put their stamp on the eight-team league with a tightly-contested cup final between champions Talacre Colts and Rhyl A.

Cup victors Rhyl A

Outstanding displays from both keepers ensured a tense finish on the pitches at the Talacre Community Sports Centre in Dalby Street, but Rhyl edged it 1-0. Afterwards playcentre manager Paulette King praised organiser Lloyd Heath who helped set up the league back in the 1980s.

She added: “The league is an integral part of Talacre ­Play­centre’s programme and it’s about children building friendships with other children through sport.” 

• The Talacre Playcentre is running a holiday scheme for five to 11-year-olds this summer from July 23 to August 29. For more details call 020 7267 9755.