Rival Christchurch clubs to play for Steve Sumner Shield in pre-season match

Canterbury rivals Christchurch United and Cashmere Technical will play for the Steve Sumner Shield on Saturday March 23, 2024, to remember the legendary All Whites captain.

The teams will kick off at 2.30pm at Nga Puna Wai Polo Grounds.

At noon, the clubs will play curtain-raisers between their U-17 and U-20 men’s teams.

Main photo: Christchurch United won the shield in 2023, beating Cashmere Technical 3-1. Photo credit: Christchurch United.

The clubs will use the shield match as preparation for their upcoming Southern League season, and to raise awareness of prostate cancer.

Sumner died from prostate cancer in February 2017, aged 61, but was an enthusiastic supporter of the Prostate Cancer Foundation, and he campaigned widely to raise awareness of the need for men to check for symptoms of the disease.

Sumner, who captained New Zealand at the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain, won the Chatham Cup a record six times, four times with Christchurch United. He also helped United win four National League titles.

He was made an Officer of the NZ Order of Merit in 2016 for his services to football.

READ MORE: Steve Sumner – All Whites legend and prostate cancer campaigner >>>>

Fixture

Game to be played on Saturday March 23, 2024

Christchurch United v Cashmere Technical
Nga Puna Wai Polo Grounds, Christchurch, 2.30pm

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