LIVERPOOL have won The Hedgehog Cup after beating Northampton Town 39-36 in a close final.
But instead of scoring goals, the Reds emerged victorious by carrying out hedgehog-friendly activities off the pitch.
Liverpool, led by Milos Kerkez, beat Northampton Town 39-36 in the Hedgehog Cup final Credit: Getty
The ‘final’ was played across six weeks and involved carrying out hedgehog-friendly activities Credit: Getty
The competition was set up by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) in a bid create a safer future for the creatures in the UK.
And it was who came out on top in the “final” across a six-week period.
The Premier League club, led by , added hedgehog houses to their AXA training complex to mark World Earth Day.
They also ensured all their lawnmowers were BHPS-ratified and educated staff and players about hedgehog rehabilitation.
Liverpool staff were shown how to safely rescue a hedgehog and place it in their special house in the training centre.
Northampton also impressed as the outfit shared BHPS content across its social media accounts.
Their mascot Clarence the Dragon also promoted the organisation’s campaign during matchdays at Sixfields Stadium.
Information about their work to help hedgehogs alongside Liverpool was shared with fans in matchday programmes.
BHPS chief Fay Vass said: “Huge congratulations to Liverpool for their amazing work in the final – a well-deserved win!
“While we know there may not be many hedgehogs at the stadiums, the Cup is a great opportunity to make the most of training grounds and other green spaces – and raising awareness about being mindful of wildlife when we do maintenance or gardening.
“Both clubs in the Hedgehog Cup final pulled out all the stops, and it was brilliant to see so much support for hedgehogs across the competition.
“We’d like to thank Northampton Town for their valiant efforts in getting so many players, staff and youth teams involved.
“Hedgehog populations have declined significantly across the UK since the year 2000 and it’s more important than ever that we stand together to help protect their welfare and habitats.
“Initiatives like the Hedgehog Cup and Hedgehog Friendly Football League help make a real difference for hedgehogs.”
Rishi Jain, Director of Impact at Liverpool, added: “It’s been great taking part in this initiative, and we’re proud of the work taking place every day at the AXA Training Centre and Academy to help create spaces where hedgehogs and other local wildlife can feel safe and thrive.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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