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Leitholm Village Football Match

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The Leitholm Village Football Match is an annual amateur football fixture held in the Scottish Borders village of Leitholm. Taking place on New Year’s Day at 10:30am, the match is a light-hearted but fiercely contested game between the East End and West End of the village, played for local pride and year-long bragging rights.

History and Tradition

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The origins of the match are rooted in local tradition and community spirit, though no formal records exist of its founding. It has become a staple of the village calendar, drawing players and spectators together regardless of the often challenging winter conditions. The match provides a communal start to the year and has developed a strong cultural identity within the village, similar to many similar matches played all around the United Kingdom.[1]

Format

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The two teams are divided geographically into East and West End, though the precise boundary remains a matter of debate. While many residents consider the Kirk to be the official dividing line, others argue that the village pub is a more appropriate marker. Regardless of the boundaries, players are typically residents or long-time friends of the village, with occasional guest appearances.

Despite its informal nature, the match follows standard football rules and is often surprisingly competitive. In recent years, the West End has experienced a period of dominance, largely attributed to the presence of semi-professional striker Josh Hedbon[2], whose clinical finishing has tilted the balance.

Memorable Moments

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One of the most iconic moments in recent history came in the 2023 match, when Derek Huffman secured victory for the West End with an unstoppable right-footed screamer in extra time, sealing a dramatic end to a hard-fought contest.

Cultural Significance

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The Leitholm Village Football Match exemplifies the enduring importance of grassroots sports and community traditions in rural Scotland. Though unofficial, it carries significant social weight for residents and encapsulates the humour, rivalry, and neighbourly spirit of the village. The event is typically followed by communal celebrations, often at the village hall's dominoes tournament, reinforcing its role as both a sporting and social highlight.

  1. ^ "Hundreds attend ancient Alnwick Shrovetide game". BBC News. 2024-02-13. Retrieved 2025-05-19.
  2. ^ "Josh Hebdon - Players - Coldstream Football Club". www.coldstreamfc.co.uk. Retrieved 2025-05-19.