Skipper John Greenaway explained: "We had a team meeting when we signed up to join the league and decided to buy the new pink kit as we thought it will not clash in colours with other teams. Although it is a bit girly, it is bright, so we can see each other easily. Other teams will also know who we are, just from our kit. It is just a bit of fun."

The referees at the league were just as shocked as the other players and spectators. Local ref, Ken White, said: "When the team turned up, and the players all got out of one car. The game I was refereeing at the time just stopped. Both teams were staring at the lads wearing their pink kits.

"There were a few girls watching the matches who found the bright kit very amusing and they had a good laugh as the team walked over to the pitch.

"In fairness, the lads took it quite well and seemed to enjoy the banter. There is a real community spirited feel to the league, now, which is great for everyone involved. The Madrid team are new to the league so the new kit broke the ice and they had a good laugh with the other teams about it."

Rustington Football Club blazed the pink trail in the Sussex County League this season with a strip deliberately chosen to raise awareness about breast cancer.

The league runs every week at St Andrew astroturf on Mondays. Anyone looking for more information can log onto www.soccersixes.net or call 0870 3300 888.
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