Cotswolds Hosts Unique River Football Match Amidst Summer Heat
By Editor • September 1, 2026 • 1 min read
In a delightful twist on traditional football, the Cotswolds welcomed hundreds of spectators to witness the annual Football In The River match in Bourton-on-the-Water. Set against a backdrop of scorching summer heat across much of the UK, this quirky event thrives on waterlogged conditions, with players wading through ankle-deep water in the Windrush.
The 50-minute spectacle kicked off at 2pm, featuring mixed teams from Bourton Rovers’ men’s squads and their veterans. As the players battled it out, the crowd was treated to a thrilling match that ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw, with the first XI equalizing in injury time.
Referee Neil Teague, donned in a Superman costume, praised the event's spirit, stating, "It was a very, very good game – it was a little bit wet out there." This cherished local tradition has been captivating fans for around a century, and despite a brief rain shower, the enthusiasm of both players and spectators remained undiminished.
Source: www.independent.co.uk
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