Powerleague Trafford

Who knew that we had the world’s largest 5-​a-​side football centre right on our doorstep? 19 indoor pitches and five outdoor, no wonder my footy-​mad nephew chose this place for his ninth birthday party.
I’m only reviewing from the position as a non-​footy fan /​spectator /​chaperone and not a customer (apart from at the bar — they have one near the entrance which is a sanctuary from the screaming hordes of kids — the pint of Becks was sincerely welcomed).
The ‘party package’ included a coach, who organised team games such as British Bulldog to get the kids all warmed up, then some 5-​a-​side matches and finally a penalty shoot-​out. Hats off to the guy, he was patient throughout and had a great rapport with them all. The kids absolutely loved every minute.
Though rehydration is provided in the form of a large jug of water from the bar and plastic cups, you might want to bring some of your own for your group as it gets very warm in there despite its colossal size.
The party ‘tea’ (they have a choice of the usual chicken nuggests, pizza, hotdogs or sandwiches) is held upstairs in a large function room — this is the part where I was downstairs in the bar, leaving my eldest sister in full control ;)
Overall a very good afternoon, my nephew had a great time and so did all his friends, it’s definitely worth considering for your footy-​mad offspring.

Pretty expensive. You can play (5 a side) football, cheapest elsewhere. Pitches are pretty good though — although you do end up with a load of bits of black rubber in your trainers.
Gets very warm when its warm outside as there is not much ventilation.
Has a few pitches outside which are cheaper

Powerleague Soccerdome is gargantuan! This 25 pitch building occupies what seems like acres of land, near to The Trafford Centre and it sees more action than Tiger Woods.
It is the largest 5 a side football arena in the country and it sneers its soccer nose up at the idea of astro turf which is seriously old hat. My brother used to return home after a «friendly» game with his knees and shins cut to ribbons by the evil astro so it is certainly good news that Powerleague has invested in 5g rubber crumb surfaces.
As the World Cup draws near, mark my words, you will see an increase in pot bellied porkers forming their own football teams. Powerleague will welcome them with open arms and the great thing about it is that after observing the porkers play a few times, Powerleague will place them in the correct league for their ability. This ensures that every team gets competitive matches with worthy opponents.
There are 19 indoor pitches and 4 outdoor ones at this football haven and after 90 minutes of cardio on the pitch, the soccerdome has a bar to rehydrate thirsty players. I have only been to this place for the children’s football parties during which excited youngsters get 90 mins of football fun followed by a half hour catered party. These parties are great, children have fun and your dedicated party co-​ordinator doubles up as the referee, giving the young players tasks and challenges in which the birthday child becomes the Beckham of the match.
Powerleague provides safe, secure and well kept pitches and gives Manchester football fanatics a great place to practice.