A BLOOD and thunder football match between community support officers and local youngsters ended in a 7-3 victory to the younger side.

On a sun-baked pitch in West Bank , shins on both sides were bloodied but only the CSOs went home nursing wounded pride.

"Yeah, we got a good stuffing if we're honest," admitted Alex Cartledge, a CSO based in Ditton.

"The West Bank lads were pretty skilful and very fit. It was a good game but we're going to have to do some major work on our fitness before the rematch! Six weeks should just about do it!"

The game was organised by the Reds' captain, Niall Craig.

Aaron Timmis bagged a hat trick and Chris Shipley, Michael Andrews and Luke Colford each got one apiece.

A brace from former Runcorn FC winger and now CSO Kieran Durkin and one from right-back Gary Ellison, made the score-line respectable.

But watching on the touchline, Niall's mum, Nicki Timmis, knew the result flattered the boys in blue (or in this case yellow).

"They resorted to sending on an extra player for the last 10 minutes because they were getting so badly beaten," she laughed.

"The ref noticed him though and sent him off. It was funny!"

Both sides however agreed on the benefit of holding such a game against such unlikely opponents.

"It's just a good way of building bridges, making friends and giving them something to do," said CSO Cartledge.

"I think it's a really positive thing to do," Mrs Timmis added.

"It will help community relations. Instead of stopping them for dropping a crisp packet that should engage with them more like this.

"It keeps the kids occupied and if there is a problem it can be dealt with informally."