A FOOTBALL tournament pitching stars from Oxford United’s past against fans to raise cash has proved so popular a second one has been arranged.

The event is the brainchild of the 12th Man fund, which has already helped the club buy Jamie Cook for £5,000.

The 16-team six-a-side competition is being held on Sunday, November 22, from 2-5pm, on the outdoor pitches at Oxford Brookes University’s Gypsy Lane campus.

The prospect of taking on a team of former United stars proved such a draw that every space sold out within a day and the organisers have now confirmed another tournament, at the same venue, on December 6.

Teams already signed up for the first competition include Oxford United Old Boys featuring chairman Kelvin Thomas, BBC Oxford, JackFM and the Oxford Mail.

Organiser Mark Sennett, of supporters’ trust OxVox, said: “It sold out in 24 hours and we had 10 other teams who missed out.

“It was a brilliant response which just shows how the fans are behind the 12th Man fund and how it has taken on a life of its own.

“We have now booked the pitches for a second tournament two weeks later.

“I would urge anyone who wants to enter a team to do so quickly to avoid disappointment.”

Mr Sennett thanked the university for hiring out its pitches at a “drastically reduced rate”.

He added: “From entrance fees alone we will get about £900 from each tournament.

“Some fans have suggested charging to be a manager for the day, which we think is a great idea and we will be looking into it.

“We will also be selling shirts and merchandise as well as food and drink on the day, so we hope to raise a decent total.

“The club have been very good with arranging a team, but with teams from BBC Oxford, JackFM and the Oxford Mail I’m sure they won’t be the only familiar faces on the pitch.

“We have also had two referees who’ve offered their services for free but we’d urge any others to also get in touch.”

Mr Thomas said: “This is another great example of the 12th Man bringing the fans and the club together and it will be a fun event.

“The Oxford Old Boys team always love a game and will be looking forward to taking on the fans.

“I’m sure it will be a day we all remember for a long time.”

Since it started two months ago the 12th Man fund has collected more than £6,300.

Manager Chris Wilder will next be able to use money from the initiative on players’ wages or transfer fees when the transfer window reopens in January.

To register a team, at £60 for a 10-man squad, or volunteer as a referee, email twelfthman@oxvox.org.uk