A grassroots team linked to Colchester United could win a professional matchday experience through the Jameson x EFL Ultimate Matchday competition, featuring former U's players David Prutton and Luke Chambers. The initiative returns for a second season, offering one winning club a transformed game day in early December.
Prutton, who played for Colchester during the 2009/10 season, and Chambers, a defender at the club from 2021 to 2023, will be involved alongside Sky Sports pundits. The competition's grand prize includes a full set of new PUMA kits, a pitch makeover with Jameson branding, and access to a local EFL club's training ground. The winners also receive a year's supply of Jameson Ginger & Lime cans.
Two runner-up teams will get PUMA strips, replica EFL match balls, and cans of the drink. Former Ipswich Town and Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy will come out of retirement to manage the one-off fixture, with EFL match officials appointed to complete the professional feel.
Entries for the competition are open until Monday, November 9, with the winners announced on that same date. The selected club must be available for the special match, which is scheduled for December 5 and 6. There is no limit on the number of entries a single club can submit.
The news offers a positive community focus for supporters as the first team handles a challenging League Two campaign. Colchester currently sit 20th in the league table with 11 points from 10 games, having won just twice this term. Their recent form shows no victories in the last five outings, a run that includes three draws and two defeats. They have scored only 5 goals in that period while conceding 8, averaging 1.6 goals against per game. They face a tough test next, travelling to face seventh-placed Chesterfield in their upcoming fixture.
Steve Sidwell, another former professional involved in the event, highlighted McCarthy's involvement. "Bringing Mick on board too, I’m hoping that he can work his magic to make sure we get the win this time around," Sidwell said. He also noted the broader aim of the competition is to give back to the grassroots game that forms the foundation of the sport.
The winning grassroots team will have their experience broadcast on social media channels, with the event designed to celebrate community football. The announcement of the successful entrants is set for November 9, after which preparations for the December matchday will begin in earnest.
