With just a few matchdays remaining in the ERSDA 2010 Division Two season, the title race has become a gripping three-way battle between St Mirren, Port White, and Renton Black. The table remains tight at the top, and every fixture could prove decisive in determining who will be crowned champions.

🥇 St Mirren: Leaders with Momentum

Currently leading the pack with 35 points from 15 games, St Mirren have demonstrated consistency and resilience throughout the campaign. Their disciplined defence and clinical finishing have helped them edge key fixtures, including a vital win over Renfrew FC and a hard-fought draw with Renton Black.

Their upcoming fixture against OLA on May 24th could be a potential banana skin—especially as OLA have frustrated several top-half teams this season.

🥈 Port White: Close Contenders with Firepower

Hot on St Mirren’s heels are Port White, just one point behind with 34 points. A strong attacking display has powered them through the season, with notable wins including a 5-1 victory over title rivals St Mirren and a gritty 2-1 triumph over Langcraigs in their first meeting.

They’ll face Langcraigs again on May 17th—a must-win game for Port White if they are to keep the pressure on St Mirren heading into the final stretch. Historically, Langcraigs have proven a stubborn opponent, so this fixture is set to be pivotal.

🥉 Renton Black: Dark Horses with a Fighting Chance

Sitting third with 31 points, Renton Black have quietly built a case as genuine title challengers. Despite a narrow defeat to Port White earlier in the season, they’ve bounced back with impressive wins over St Cadocs and Langcraigs. Their physical style and midfield dominance make them tough to beat.

They’ll be hoping the top two drop points while keeping their own momentum going in upcoming matches. Although slightly trailing, Renton Black still control their fate if they win out and results go their way.

🔮 What Lies Ahead?

With each of the top three playing crucial games in the next two weeks, here are the standout fixtures to watch:

OLA v St Mirren
Renton Red v St Mirren

Port Glasgow v Renfrew
Langcraigs v Port Glasgow

Renton Black v OLA
Langcraigs v Renton Black

With two of the top three teams still to play Langcraigs in the final two matches, Langcraigs could have a big say in the final outcome of the 2024/25 Ersda division Two championship!

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As the ERSDA 2010 Division Two campaign nears its conclusion, the tension is palpable. Will St Mirren hold their nerve? Can Port White reclaim the top spot? Or will Renton Black snatch glory in the final weeks?

Stay tuned to ERSDA.uk for all the latest fixtures, results, and league updates.

GIFFNOCK V EDINBURGH SOUTH

The 2025 Finals will wrap up with the 13s match between Giffnock SC and Edinburgh South CFC at 4pm. Both teams have shown remarkable skills, with Giffnock scoring a Hat Trick in Round 4 and Edinburgh South CFC making history as their club’s first team to reach the Finals. Fans can look forward to an exciting clash as they compete for the trophy!

Other Finals

ERSDA League Registration for Season 2025/2026 is now open and will close on the 30th June 2025. League fee invoices will be issued on the close of the registration window. Please complete the attached form to register https://forms.gle/ksoLYSQZR7JDiN587 Any questions please contact secretary@ersda.uk Thank you.

this audio summarises the headlines of the season guide

File Name: ERSDA-small-sided-game-season-guide-2025.pdf

Download File

Grassroots football teams are the beating heart of local communities, nurturing budding talent and fostering a love for the sport among the youth. Despite their essential role, these teams often grapple with significant financial challenges, making it difficult to fund kits, facilities, and other operational costs.

1. Funding Kit and Facilities: Grassroots teams require a steady stream of funds to purchase kits, maintain fields, and provide training equipment. Unlike professional teams, they lack substantial revenue streams such as ticket sales, merchandise, or broadcasting rights. As a result, they often rely heavily on community support and fundraising activities, which can be unpredictable and insufficient.

2. Limited Access to Grants: While there are grants and subsidies available for grassroots sports, the competition for these funds is fierce. Many teams struggle to navigate the application processes and meet the stringent criteria set by grant-giving bodies. Consequently, even the most deserving teams may fall short of securing the financial aid they need.

3. Rising Operational Costs: The cost of running a football team has been steadily increasing. Expenses such as pitch hire add up quickly. Without adequate financial backing, teams may find it challenging to sustain their activities throughout the season.

The Importance of Local Sponsorship

Local companies can play a pivotal role in supporting grassroots football teams by providing much-needed sponsorship. Here’s why local sponsorship is vital:

1. Financial Stability: Sponsorships offer a reliable source of income for grassroots teams, helping to cover the costs of kits, facilities, and other essential expenses. This financial stability allows teams to focus on developing players and enhancing their performance on the pitch.

2. Strengthening Community Ties: When local businesses sponsor grassroots teams, it fosters a sense of community pride and unity. These partnerships demonstrate a commitment to supporting local youth and investing in the community’s future, which can boost morale and engagement among residents.

3. Enhanced Visibility for Businesses: Sponsoring a local football team provides businesses with a unique platform to increase their visibility. Their logos on kits, banners at matches, and mentions in local media help raise brand awareness and build a positive reputation within the community.

Benefits for Companies Sponsoring Grassroots Football Teams

1. Brand Loyalty: Supporting local teams can cultivate brand loyalty among community members. When businesses invest in grassroots initiatives, they are often perceived as caring and community-oriented, which can lead to increased customer loyalty and support.

2. Networking Opportunities: Sponsorships open doors for businesses to connect with other local sponsors, community leaders, and residents. These connections can lead to new business opportunities and collaborations that might not have been possible otherwise.

3. Positive Public Relations: Being associated with community-focused initiatives can enhance a company’s public image. Local sponsorships showcase corporate social responsibility and highlight the business’s dedication to giving back, which can attract positive media coverage and improve public perception.

4. Employee Engagement: Employees of sponsoring companies often feel a sense of pride and connection to their employers when they see their company’s involvement in community activities. This can boost morale and foster a stronger sense of team spirit within the workplace.

Conclusion

Grassroots football teams are the foundation of the sport, providing opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills and passion. However, they face significant financial challenges that can impede their progress. Local companies can make a meaningful difference by sponsoring these teams, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive. In return, businesses gain increased visibility, brand loyalty, and a positive public image, making local sponsorship a win-win for both parties.

Help for team administrators/coaches etc on the use of Comet. Visit the help Portal here

Self Service Portal

The SFA has introduced their new ‘Player Journey,’ replacing the former ‘Player Pathway’ All SYFA small-sided teams should be sure to follow this format

Applications for the 2025 intake of Scottish FA JD Performance School pupils are now open.

The next intake is open to Primary 7 pupils entering S1 in August 2025 with the programme for players who are eligible to play for Scotland.

Should I apply for my child?

The Scottish FA JD Performance Schools are designed for the best young players in Scotland. Watch the video below to see the minimum level expected from applicants.

What application form should I use?

Pro application: For children currently registered with SPFL clubs only.
Grassroots application: For children not registered with an SPFL club.

The application process

Application window is now open.

Complete Professional Club Application here.
Complete Grassroots Application here.

You can register to attend our Information Evening online via the form below, this takes place on Monday, 3 February.