KMLC25 - A bit more about the Carling Black Label Striker Cup

Before we go back to the 11-a-side business here's some more details on the competition that saw the first appearance of the Kylies. I've edited it but it's their words not mine.

The basic rules to remember are:

• Keep the ball under head height
• Don't step into the goalkeeper's area (defenders may concede penalties of they do).
• Goalkeepers may only roll the ball out underarm.
• The ball may be played off walls and boards - even those behind the goals.
• Up to two substitutes can be used in any one match.

Two groups of five teams play on a league basis. Each game lasts 10 minutes with NO interval. The top team in Group One plays the second team in Group Two - and vice versa - in a semi-final. Then the final will be held, with the winning team qualifying for the final. The semi-finals and finals will last 12 minutes (six minutes each way.)

Two points for a win and one for a draw. Goal difference will be used to calculate placings, but if two teams tie for a qualifying place the teams that scored MOST goals will qualify. If the teams' Goals For records are identical, the two teams will play each other until a goal is scored.

If a team is late... the match may be cancelled. If this happens, the guilty team will have THREE points added to its Goals Against record, while their opponents will be AWARDED three goals and two points.

Bad behaviour will not be tolerated. Referees have the authority to SEND a player off, BAN him from playing any further games, or DISQUALIFY a whole team from the tournament.

Here are some useful Do's and Dont's:

DO wear trainers with plenty of grip.
DO bring a second kit to avoid colour clashes - or at least some different coloured T-shirts.
DO wear tracksuits or padding (or both) if you are playing in goal.
DO warm-up exercises before starting a game to avoid the risk of pulling muscles.
DON'T pester the referee between matches. Keep your own record of results if you want to chart your team's progress.
DON't wear trainers with black soles. They permanently mark the playing surface.
DON'T argue with the referees. They are sacrificing their weekends to do a difficult job.
DON'T wander too far away from the court between matches or you could miss your next game.

Finally, the most important advice of all; play to win - but be sporting and have fun.