11 Cambridge United fans to play in sponsor match at Abbey Stadium

Eleven Cambridge United fans have snapped up the chance to play for their team in a friendly match against shirt sponsor Kershaw Group.

The well known Cambridge company is pitching its team against a side made up of the fans, CUFC staff and officials, at Abbey Stadium on Monday 6th April.

Team manager Gary Brabin is also due to play and will be managing the U’s side. First team coach Stuart Bimson could also make an appearance.

Kershaw Group has been sponsoring Cambridge United for a record eight years, and plays in a match every year.

Fans are not often given an opportunity to play on the pitch in this way.

Places went on sale last Monday at £90 each – and sold out in just two days.

Ian Greenstock is the sales director of Kershaw Group, and said: “This could be the footballing battle of the year.

“We’re putting together a team of our best players – and we’ve got some crackers – plus a few guests from our client base.”

CUFC club secretary Wayne Purser added: “The reaction from fans was incredible with the 11 places selling far more quickly than we thought they would.

“None of these 11 fans have played on the pitch before, so this will be a dream experience for them. Sounds like the Kershaw team is going to give everyone a good run for their money,”

Kershaw Group has its head office in Cambridge, and can track parts of its history back to 1887.

Local divisions include metal roofing and cladding firm T R Freeman and mechanical services company Kershaw Mechanical Services,

The group is always heavily involved in the local community, especially as a shirt sponsor of Cambridge United.