THE Liphook Knights has made their new sponsors Knights & Sons Security Limited very proud.
Tony Knights and Corina James, directors of the sponsors, had the pleasure of meeting the under-nines team's managers, players and parents for a Champagne presentation at the team's ground.
A friendly fixture was arranged at short notice against rivals Petersfield Town Jaguars who are currently top of Division One, but the Knights were edged out on the day 5-3 after matching the Jaguars for the bulk of the game.
All 12 Knights played a part during the game, which was well-supported and enjoyed by all.
The Knights, whose new team strip was unveiled in October, have started the 2008-9 season in great style, gaining promotion from Division Three and remain unbeaten in the League to date.
After eight games their record is won seven and drawn one. The seven-a-side mini-soccer matches are run by the North East Hampshire Youth League.
This Knights have only been in existence since October 2007, while Liphook United Football Club itself has been established for more than 100 years, representing a strong football tradition in the village.
The under nines' sponsor Knights & Sons Security Limited themselves have a strong sporting link, as one of the company's business services is supplying the stewarding manpower to the likes of Wembley and Twickenham stadiums.
Mr Knights said: "I want to attend as many matches as I can, as I used to coach a youth football team and my son Jamie, who refereed the fixture, was captain of Farnborough Town.
"These were some of the best years of my life to date. The important thing is that all the kids go out there and enjoy themselves representing the village."
For more information about the club, visit http://www.liphook-united.org">www.liphook-united.org.