Birkenhead United

Birkenhead United AFC is a semi-professional football (soccer) club based in Birkenhead, New Zealand. They currently compete in the Lotto Sport Italia NRFL Division 1.

Club history

The club in its current state was established in 1963 as an amalgamation of the Birkdale and Birkenhead teams. The club have a strong history of bringing youth through the system to eventually play in the senior mens team. As of 2011 only 3 players were over the age of 20, with both captains, Parkinson and Hobson, being 19 respectively.

Present day

During the 2010 season they played in the second division the Lotto Sport Italia NRFL Division 1B.

Now, in 2011, Birkenhead still compete in the same league while hoping for promotion into the Lotto Sport Italia NRFL Premier League. The teams chances are looking good with Birkenhead leading the promotion push, 5 points clear at the top.

Style of play

Birkenhead United are well known for their 'pass and move' style of play, much like that of FC Barcelona, while also adopting their formation of 4-3-3. Birkenhead do not play a direct type of football as they like to trust their footballing ability which coach Paul Hobson believes to be very important.

Current squad

Note: Flags indicate national team as has been defined under FIFA eligibility rules. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

References

External links

• Club website
• New Zealand 2004/05 Season Results