GROWERS United lost 2-1 to a Liverpool Legends team featuring a whole host of former Reds stars to raise money for charity.

David Thompson and John Durnin scored in the first half before Growers’ co-founder Bal Padda headed home.

“There was a record crowd of 1,800 and we’ve raised around £6,700,” said Padda.

“The players loved it and we are hoping for an even bigger crowd for the soap stars game. It really was the best day ever.”

Growers entertain the Soap Stars XI on Sunday at the Jubilee Stadium (3pm).

A Copa America-style tournament will be at the same venue on Saturday and Sunday, raising funds for Once Upon A Smile, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Cancer Research UK.