The History of 5-a-Side Football

LFA Football
May 1
3 min read

Updated: May 7

When you think of football in the UK, you might picture packed stadiums, 90 minute matches and roaring crowds. But over the past few decades, another format of the beautiful game has carved out a strong place in the hearts of players and fans alike. We are talking about 5-a-side football, a faster, more accessible and endlessly entertaining version of the sport that has become a staple across the country.

But where did 5-a-side football come from? How did it evolve into the beloved sport we know today? In this post, we take a look at the fascinating history of 5 a side football, from its humble beginnings to its modern day popularity.

The Origins of 5 a Side Football

While the traditional 11 a side game dates back to the 19th century, the concept of small sided football has existed in various forms for centuries. Informal kickabouts in school playgrounds, back gardens and even on the streets often involved fewer players due to space limitations. However, these casual games laid the foundation for what would become organised 5-a-side football.

The earliest known form of 5-a-side football as a structured game is believed to have taken place in the 1950s in the UK. Scottish clubs such as Aberdeen were among the first to formally adopt the format for training purposes, using it as a way to keep players fit and sharp during the off season. The condensed pitch size and limited number of players created an environment that emphasised skill, agility and quick decision making.

The Rise of Indoor Football

By the 1960s and 1970s, 5-a-side football began to spread beyond training grounds and into community sports centres. With the construction of indoor facilities and artificial pitches, especially in urban areas, the game became more accessible year round, regardless of weather conditions.

These early centres saw a surge in popularity as working adults sought convenient ways to stay active and social during the week. The shorter match times and smaller team sizes meant that players could fit in a game after work or on weekends without needing the commitment required by full 11 a side leagues.

The Boom of Commercial 5-a-Side Centres

In the 1990s and early 2000s, the UK saw significant growth in purpose built 5-a-side football centres. Companies such as Powerleague and Goals helped professionalise the format by offering high quality pitches, floodlights and structured leagues. These centres provided a consistent and organised experience for players of all abilities, from beginners to seasoned veterans.

Today, there are hundreds of 5-a-side venues across the UK, catering to millions of players each year. Many facilities now include additional amenities such as changing rooms and on-site bars for socialiasing before and after playing.

What Makes 5-a-Side Football Unique

Unlike traditional football, 5-a-side is played on a much smaller pitch, often with rebound boards or enclosed walls. There are no offsides, and the pace of the game is noticeably faster. The focus shifts from long passes and set pieces to close control, quick footwork and constant movement.

This makes 5-a-side ideal for developing technical skills, improving fitness and enjoying the social aspect of football. Whether you are a competitive player or simply looking for a fun way to stay active, 5-a-side offers a welcoming and flexible format.