As the game begins, players are warned: "You play the game at your own risk." Although the Royal Shrovetide has been credited as the predecessor of modern soccer, you might have a hard time seeing the link. The Royal Shrovetide looks more like an angry mob with a ball than a sport where
Ronaldo's fancy footwork reigns supreme.
Curious to know more about this ancient sport? Click through the gallery for a glimpse of soccer's riotous grandfather.