Building to the Best

George Best's legacy is giving teenagers the chance of a lifetime.

The George Best Memorial Trophy, a two-legged fixture between teams from Belfast and Manchester, is the brainchild of Barbara McNally, the United icon's sister.

“George said remember me for my football and that’s exactly what we did," said Barbara, referring to the matches which took place at United's training ground on 17 March - Saint Patrick’s Day and in Belfast on 22 May - George’s birthdate.

The Manchester United Foundation team was represented by players from Trafford, Salford and Wythenshawe social inclusion programmes. The George Best Foundation side was drawn from Castlereagh Borough Council’s Midnight Street Soccer initiative.

Both matches ended 1-1, but despite such a closely fought battle the sportsmanship from all the players was exemplary.

“The spirit in which the game was played was outstanding and each and every player is to be congratulated,” remarked Barbara. “I would like to extend our personal thanks to these young men who were outstanding ambassadors not just for both charities, but most importantly for the memory of George Best.”