There are many open spaces in Appley Bridge where the local population play football, cricket and rugby etc. The organised football team is called Appley Bridge F.C. and plays matches on the football pitch on Appley Lane South facing the old local pub called the Bridge Inn, near the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Appley Bridge F.C. which is a Football Association Charter club has many junior teams from the under age 8 up to the under age 16. This is complemented by senior teams and a successful over-35s team. The Senior team enjoys good support and the junior teams have at various age groups been very successful over the past seasons.