RBG United fall short in a close match against Avery Hill Reserves

The Royal Borough of Greenwich put on a fearless display over the weekend but fell short to a narrow defeat against Avery Hill Reserves in a unique celebration of fostering in Greenwich. 

The friendly, held during Foster Care Fortnight, drew crowds to Coldharbour Leisure Centre to cheer on the council’s team made up of staff, foster carers, and councillors.  

Managed by footballer-turned-foster carer Paul Smith, RBG United put on a strong show in the first half but couldn’t keep up with Avery Hill Reserves, going 4-2 down at half time. 

Both teams heard from the Fostering Networks’ Head of Fundraising, Phillip Jacob, who spoke on how proud he is of the borough for the work they’re doing and shared that despite the fact there were big games happening across the weekend, this was the best one. 

The game showed that despite challenges, unity and teamwork will always shine through. From the head coach and the supporters to the referee and the players, the day highlighted how deeply connected our fostering community is. 

Kirk, a new foster carer and part of the midfield, said:

“My partner, Sydia and I have just been approved to foster our first child. The support here today showed me that we picked the right place to foster with. 

 

"Everyone has each other’s back. Not only are you giving a young person a family, but you’re creating one yourself with the support from all levels of the council. 

“We considered fostering for eight years and finally stopped waiting and did it. If you have a spare room, you could change a child’s entire life. Not everyone is born into a loving or capable family, but if you can give that to someone, you’re doing more than you know. I know we’re in safe hands here and have the support we need.” 

After a motivating team talk at the break, the squad came back energised but it wasn’t quite enough to turn the game around.

Head Coach, Paul Smith:

“Today just felt like a family BBQ. The kids look at us and don’t see job titles, they just look at us and see a big family.” 

After the game, ex professional player and chair of Charlton Athletic Football Club, Paul Elliot and ex Chelsea player, Mark Stein, chose our player of the match. Alex Foulds, social worker and our left winger deservedly won the golden boot, despite a shocking missed penalty she would rather forget. 

The day would not have been possible with Avery Hill Reserves, Blackheath Rhinos, Better and Coldharbour Leisure Centre, Maritime Radio and Tesco.  

A special shoutout to Tesco who provided lots of drinks and snacks to keep our players fueled. 

The score doesn’t change the fact the day was one of celebration, filled with effort, community spirit, and love for our fostering network. If you think you could be part of this team, the village we create to raise our children in care, get in touch. 

 To foster you need to be: 

• Over 18
• Have a spare room
• Have time to dedicate to caring for a child 

Could you? Contact us on 0800 052 1499 or fostering-recruitment@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.