HUNDREDS of Southampton pupils will descend on a football club for a mass annual football tournament.

Oakwood Youth FC is hosting the event this weekend with 56 teams from ages ranging between under 7s and under 12s taking part.

Five hundred players are expected to complete with a crowd of 1,000 anticipated to come down and support the event.

The tournament has also been given a boost after Southampton McDonald’s franchisee Bryan Rupping decided to sponsor the event.

Oakwood Youth FC, based at Southampton Solent University’s sports facilities is an FA chartered club that has more than 20 teams in various local leagues, with a roster of more than 300 players playing each week.

Mark Puleo, club secretary said: “It has taken a lot of time to create and organise and having the support and sponsorship from Bryan and his McDonald’s restaurant has been crucial.

“I would like to thank all the committee and volunteers for all their help and assistance in helping us to deliver the experience over the weekend.”

Restaurant franchisee Bryan has been sponsoring the club for the past three years, donating training equipment and kits to the teams.

He also owns and operates three restaurants on Shirley Road, Redbridge Road and in Totton.

Last year, the tournament saw 88 teams take part with more than 1,800 people spectating.

The event, which runs over both Saturday and Sunday, will be taking place at Southampton Solent University’s sports ground on Lower Brownhill Road.