Kolkata, March 9 (IANS): At a time when India is getting ready to witness a U-17 Women's World Cup on home soil for the first time later this year, a fan-based wing of English Premier League giants Arsenal is doing its bit to promote the sport among less fortunate aspiring footballers.

On International Women's Day on March 8, Arsenal Bengal Supporters Club, the sole officially recognised Arsenal supporters club in Eastern India, organised a one-of-a-kind tournament, Kick for Liberty, dedicated to the women footballers of the city.

An amateur football meet in nature, the competition was spread over two days with eight teams playing 32 matches and vying for top honours.

Outlaws A were crowned champions with their player Ridhi Ramesh awarded the player of the tournament.

But more importantly, among the many who came from diverse backgrounds fighting social taboos to make a name for themselves by cashing in on the opportunity, there was 14-year old Arpita Duley who braved extreme poverty to still take the greens donning the Arsenal Bengal Supporters Club Lumos Femeni Ballers jersey and chasing her ambitions.

"Her father is a daily wage labourer. So we have decided to support her financially," said Arpan Bhattacharya, manager of the team.

"We see potential in her and therefore we feel she needs the support. At Arsenal Bengal Supporters Club, we understand that even now, women in our society do not enjoy the same level of freedom as their male counterparts," he said.

Formed in 2011 and registered as an official club in 2014, Arsenal Bengal Supporters Club got its recognition from London-based Arsenal in 2016. The club also organises charity events in a bid to contribute to the society.