players might just as well swap shirts BEFORE kick-off

But such, indeed, are the realities of international pro football. You want the other thing, as with folk music, you've got to dig just that little bit deeper - go out and support the small clubs & leagues that do consist of locals in meaningful competition. When we lived in Waterhouses in rural Country Durham, it was a joy to go and watch Esh Winning FC of a cold winters day, flask of Bovril in hand. And let's not forget West Auckland Town AFC who once brought home the World Cup. If it wasn't for the Folk Party, I'd love to go and watch their fixture with Marske United on Saturday. So - don't despair, human level local football is alive and well and not about to go away; so get out there and enjoy it!