As Man v Fat Carlisle transitions into its four-week cup tournament, this week witnessed another great display of football skills and personal health triumphs.
The round-robin stage commenced on Monday with competitive matches that kept spectators cheering.
Parmesan Belgrade Blacks narrowly emerged victorious with an 8-7 win against Fatburn Rovers Blues, once weight loss and tracking goals were added to the on-pitch score.
The result sees the invincible Parmesan Belgrade Blacks protect their astounding 11-game winning run, though Fatburn Rovers Blues gave them a very close run for their money.
Fatarselona Oranges were toppled by Borussia Muncheneverything Whites in a high-scoring game that ended 13-10.
Fatarselona Oranges are on a redemption path after just missing second place in the league, and they exhibited fierce determination to start their cup campaign with a win.
The scorers from the Oranges, Danny Etheridge, Dougie Penrice and Steve Wright played a crucial part in the end-to-end face-off.
Saint Eat-Again Greens, considered the underdogs of the cup, showcased a stunning performance by defeating Scran United Reds 12-6.
Are we witnessing an unexpected champion in the making? With the superb performances of the Greens’ Ash Clarkson, Stevie Baty and Hein van der Westhuizen contributing to this victory, the underdogs may just turn the tables.
Man of the Match awards went to stand-out players from each team for their efforts on the pitch. Newcomer Mark Bray from Parmesan Belgrade Blacks dazzled in his debut by putting the opposition under pressure with his rapid ball movements.
Another debutant, Paul Sewell of Scran United Reds, drove his team forward with relentless energy and had commendable efforts on goal.
Hein van der Westhuizen from Saint Eat-Again Greens controlled the game with crucial tackles, proving to be the driving force behind his team.
Rhys Ash from Borussia Muncheneverything Whites was a constant threat and rallied his team through adversity. Ross McDonald of Fatburn Rovers Blues displayed exceptional defensive and offensive skills.
Outstanding weight loss achievements were also celebrated this week. Andy Burton from Borussia Muncheneverything Whites topped the charts, shedding an impressive 3.7kg. This was coupled with reaching a milestone of five per cent body weight loss.
Other remarkable weight losses included Mike Saul and Steve Robinson from Scran United Reds, Shane Statter from Fatarselona Oranges, and Jonny
‘Turtle’ Brown from Fatburn Rovers Blues, who impressively managed to shed over a stone between them this week.
Adding on to the notable achievements, the Carlisle club is bidding a fond farewell to one of its success stories, Danny ‘Effy’ Etheridge. Having reached his health goals, the popular member of the club is leaving to take his talents to the SoccerWorld five-a-side league in Carlisle.
Reflecting on his transformative journey, Effy said, “I’ve enjoyed every second at MVF and would encourage anyone that’s wanting to be a bit more active, sociable and likes football to sign up.
“People get MVF confused for walking football, but it’s far from that! I’ve lost over two stone since joining and it’s definitely had a positive effect on my life. It’s been a pleasure to play with a great bunch of lads that support each other.”
His progression is an inspiration for the current and future players, showcasing what can be achieved through dedication and camaraderie in this unique league.
The league is currently extending an invitation for new players to join the ranks, as it gears up for its upcoming Season 7, kicking off in August. It’s an ideal time to join: don’t miss the chance to make your mark both on and off the pitch!
The initiative is for all abilities, and there’s no age limit. Players can go completely at their own pace, no matter their fitness levels.
Man v Fat Carlisle is a weight-loss football league for overweight or obese men with a BMI of 27.5 or above, and provides a supportive and friendly environment for men to lose weight and improve their overall health and wellbeing, with over 1400lbs lost so far.
The league – which combines football with a weight-loss programme that includes diet and exercise advice, weekly weigh-ins and support from fellow players – has been a resounding success, with over 100 players from across Cumbria experiencing improvements in their physical and mental health.
The matches take place on every Monday evening at the Harraby 3G pitches on Edgehill Road in Carlisle.
For more action-packed photos and highlights, or to join the programme, visit www.manvfatfootball.org/carlisle or search Man v Fat Football Carlisle on Facebook.
Readers of this article can receive a special discount when signing up, by using code CUMBRIA when prompted on the Man v Fat website.
