Sky Sports - Christmas Special at Eastleigh FC

Message posted by Dave Malone, Eastleigh FC Director of Football:

As some of you will know, we were delighted to host the "Sky Sports - Christmas Special" filming at the Silverlake Stadium yesterday (Thursday).

The day was a fantastic success, and all of the Sky Sports team were delighted with the way things went. To give some background on the day, I will detail how this evolved:

Some three or four weeks ago I spoke with Matt Le Tisssier (yes, that ex-Eastleigh legend!!) who asked if we would be interested in hosting the filming of the Sky Xmas Special. You can be assured that we quickly agreed, and then had two meetings with Sky production staff - who in turn were impressed with our facilities (including the all weather pitches) - and confirmed that they would like to do their filming at the Silverlake. I am sorry that we were asked NOT to publicise the event, as the "crowd" was limited to around 600 people.

The format of the day was that 4 teams of Under 14 boys played in a knock-out tournament. The teams were selected by the Hampshire FA (Eastleigh, Baddesley, Earls and St Francis), and they were "managed and coached" by two "Soccer Saturday" pundits. There were three games - two semi-finals and a final. The pundit teams were:

Matt Le Tissier & Paul Merson

Ian Dowie & Alan McInaley

Charlie Nicholas & Phil Thompson

Chris Kamara & Paul Jewell

The (rather unfit) referee was none other than Jeff Stelling, and the 4th Official was Dermot Gallagher.

We have been asked not to reveal the outcome of the tournament, but I can tell you that they were three very, very interesting games!

All four of the teams were coached by the pundits on the all weather pitch, prior to the tournament - and the filming included the team talks in the dressing rooms.

We were amazed by the scale of the operation. We had somewhere between 40 and 50 Sky production staff and crew - who worked through the night on Wednesday preparing for the filming.

Our particular thanks should go to: Rhonda - who took charge of catering for all the Sky people, as well as the players and staff. She also (single-handedly) ran the bar in the afternoon (say thank you, Loud & Proud!!). Mick Geddes - who efficiently ensured that the car parking and gates worked smoothly, and the stewards and helpers were in the right place at the right time. Danny Smith - who ensured that our Academy players were at hand to do a variety of tasks - including that of over-age ball boys!! Malcolm & Shauna Taylor - our dynamic duo in the Executive Club, and a myriad of others who made sure the whole day was a resounding success, and a credit to Eastleigh Football Club.

I am told that the 2 hour show is likely to be shown on Sky Sports on either Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Can't wait!!!