The embattled world of football was shown the way by 100 youngsters from Islington community centres who came together for a tournament in the name of peace.

Islington Gazette: Cllr Kaya Comer-Schwartz presenting the Peace Cup to the winning team, Muslim Welfare HouseCllr Kaya Comer-Schwartz presenting the Peace Cup to the winning team, Muslim Welfare House (Image: Archant)

The annual Peace Cup, now in its fifth year, was played on Sunday at Market Road football pitches in Holloway.

Ten teams from different communities across the borough took part, with Muslim Welfare House (MWH) emerging victorious and taking Finsbury Park Mosque’s crown.

A tense final was all square at half time as Rosemary Kicks held firm to keep the score at 1-1, but in the second half the MWH ran away with it and scored four to secure a convincing 5-1 win.

MySpace FC emerged from the wilderness to come third in the tournament, which was made up entirely of players aged 14 to 17.

The tournament offers youngsters the chance to play together, break down barriers and learn more about peace and is backed by Absolute Print Ltd, the town hall’s targeted youth support team, Islington Faiths Forum, Arsenal in the Community and the Access to Sports Project.

The Neighbourhood Police and the Police Cadets were also there to watch from the sidelines.

One of the players, Ala-Eddine Bouakaz, said: “The Peace Cup was just amazing. The organisation was excellent and it gathered all the community centres into one.

“It was a great experience to play football competitively and at the same time safely. It felt like I belong there.”

The town hall’s community development boss Cllr Kaya Comer-Schwartz presented the winners with the Peace Cup.

She said: “I was honoured to present medals and the cup and would like to thank all those whose hard work helped make this community event happen.

“The tournament is a fantastic opportunity for young people in Islington from different communities to be unified in their love of football.”