A LAST-MINUTE reprieve turned into a title-winning triumph for a Tameside futsal side that has taken the national game by surprise.
Sala Futsal Club’s newly formed men’s team has been crowned National Futsal League Tier 3 champions – despite only being admitted into the competition after another club dropped out.
The team had initially been denied entry following a vote by rival sides, making their eventual inclusion all the more dramatic.
Fuelled by that early setback, Sala embarked on a relentless run of form, going 15 games unbeaten to clinch the league title in their very first season. They sealed top spot in emphatic fashion on April 6, beating local rivals Inspired Futsal 10-3 in a high-scoring Tameside derby.
The victory not only confirmed their status as champions, but also secured promotion to Tier 2 North of the National Futsal Series for the 2024/25 campaign.
The squad’s success is rooted in the club’s long-term development model, with several players progressing through its youth ranks into the senior setup. Among them is Noah Lucas, who recently represented Scotland in FIFA Futsal World Cup qualifying.
Club chairman Neil Lucas reflected on a breakthrough season: “It’s been a fantastic achievement to win the league in our first season. The players have been outstanding, and it shows the strength of the pathway we’ve built from junior to senior futsal.”
Beyond the silverware, the club is now looking ahead. With promotion secured, Sala is aiming to strengthen its senior squad and attract new sponsorship as it prepares for a step up in competition.
The club continues to run weekly sessions across Tameside and Gorton for young players aged 6 to 16, with ambitions to grow both its grassroots and elite pathways in the coming years.
For more information, contact Neil on 07790 779 007 or neil@salasoccerschools.com