Rochdale AFC, powered by Esports Events UK LTD, brought their first competitive Esports event to the Crown Oil Arena at the weekend, inviting Dale fans to get their game on and pitch themselves against other players on the popular EA Sports FIFA19.
The tournament was held in aid of Springhill Hospice and raised £250 thanks to the attendees and sponsors.
A competitive day was expected, given the early ticket purchases from Rochdale’s competitive FIFA19 Pro-Clubs team, Dale Esports. That combined with a number of others with a strong legacy of competitive gameplay on FIFA19 through the many titles.
The players were divided into two groups and the top two from each qualified for the knockout rounds. From the off in group A, a high standard was set by Peter Phan with a goal in the first minute of his first match and then finishing with a huge 4-0 win! Peter stormed the group stages with an epic 12 points from an available 12. The runner-up was David Loughlin with six points.
Group B was more tightly contested but not without its epic score lines, for example; Alan Brown’s 4-0 demolition of Rhys Wolstenholme, also Alan Brown and Mike Man’s 4-4 stalemate! However, only two could progress. Alan topped the group with ten points and Mike came in a close second place with seven.
Semi-Finalists
Peter Phan Vs Mike Man
David Loughlin Vs Alan Brown
The semi-finals were a perfect match-up and surprisingly Peter’s attacking style was nullified by Mike’s defensive style and Mike ended Peter’s unbeaten run. David also swept aside Alan in a closely fought battle.
Finalists
David Loughlin Vs Mike Man
Each player delivered a fine display, finishing the regulation 90 minutes all square, so the game went to extra time. After a further 30 minutes, both teams could still not be separated so it came down to penalties, which saw Mike with his head in his hands after two saved shots. It came down to David’s last shot to seal the win which he did in impressive style.
Congratulations to winner David Loughlin who on the prized of a Rochdale AFC Signed Copy of the Championship Edition of FIFA20 which he will receive upon release. Mike took away a runner up prize of a signed Rochdale AFC signed Shirt.
Sophie Ansley, Corporate and Partnerships Fundraiser, at Springhill Hospice said: “Thank you to the Dale Esports Team and Rochdale Football Club for generously supporting the Hospice through their FIFA Tournament. The funds raised from the day is brilliant and very much appreciated. Congratulations to the winner!”
Main Event Sponsors; DS Windows Doors & Conservatories LTD
RC Solutions Pitch Care LTD
T-Shirt Sponsor; J&R Eventualities
Partners; Darren Robinson Photography - See a full gallery of images above
Store 57 Productions
Charity; Springhill Hospice