GAMERS TOOK OVER WEMBLEY STADIUM FOR THE INAUGURAL EMIRATES FA CUP GAMING TOURNAMENT

• Over 60 adrenalin-fuelled super fans and video gamers battled it out this weekend at the ‘Every Gamer’s Adventure’ event for the 2016 title at the home of football, Wembley Stadium connected by EE
• The one-off event on Saturday 7 May, saw gamers putting their thumbs to the test in iconic locations within Wembley Stadium, including the changing rooms, the player tunnel and dugouts as they re-enacted their own proceedings of the competition on-screen
• Gamers met with compere and host Colin Murray, ex-player and gaming fan Jermaine Jenas and a host of leading YouTuber talent

The early rounds of the tournament were played in iconic locations around the stadium such as the changing rooms and the players’ tunnel, with the two finalists virtually battling it out on Wembley Stadium’s 82 foot screens as they sat in the centre circle.

Compered by sports presenter, Colin Murray, the gaming event witnessed unpredictability, fierce competition and gaming prowess, an atmosphere of pure determination likened to that of the on-pitch drama waiting to unfold at Wembley Stadium between Crystal Palace and Manchester United on Saturday 21 May.

Popular ex-player, pundit and gaming fan Jermaine Jenas, and a number of professional gamers and YouTube stars (AJ3, Behzinga, CapgunTom, Theo Baker, Toobiias, Miniminter and Reev) welcomed the gaming participants, sharing tips and tricks on the day as they commenced the ultimate gaming adventure.

Undoubtedly a Bluebirds highlight came as Sam Sutton defeated his Swansea City counterpart in the 4th Round.

The overall winner, Harris Riaz 16, not only secured the prestige of being crowned the inaugural champion, but he also lifted The Emirates FA Cup and awarded a personalised ‘Every Gamer’s Adventure’ PlayStation 4 console. Harris will be attending the Emirates FA Cup Final on 21 May as a special guest of The FA.

Sports presenter and host of the Every Gamer’s Adventure inaugural gaming tournament, Colin Murray, commented: “Today was an historic moment for The Emirates FA Cup – 64 gamers going on an adventure like never seen before. The passion showed by the players today, mirrored that of those who play on the pitch. A memorable adventure well worth taking.”

The one day event replicated the fixtures from this year’s third round with 64 gamers and 32 matches kicking-off the proceedings. The gamers played FIFA 16 on PlayStation 4 consoles.

For more information on this season’s Emirates FA Cup adventure, please visit TheFA.com/TheEmiratesFACup.