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The 4v4 format for five to eight-year-olds is growing in popularity in Dumfries, with the Dumfries and Galloway Youth League holding their programme at Palmerston Park recently for the first time.

Over 150 young children attended the event where they took part in small sided games designed to provide more touches of the ball, greater chances for 1v1s, opportunities to make on-field decisions and, most importantly, make playing football fun.

Graeme Mathie, club development manager for the Scottish FA’s South West team, said: “Quality Mark Clubs Annan Athletic, Lochar Thistle Youths, Heston Rovers, Heston Girls, Greystone Rovers, Terregles and Galloway Thistle were in attendance and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to play in a professional environment.

“A special thanks from all involved should go to Mark Blount, Kevin McCormick, Jordan Slater, Jim Thomson, Andy Irving(Queen of the South),Andy Cochrane(Queens Trust) and Robbie Totten from the Scottish FA for all their help and advice.”

To find out more about 4v4 football in the Dumfries and Galloway region, please contact southwest@scottishfa.co.uk or tel: 01294 317 430