The all new (old!) Wyrley Juniors Veterans team played Hawkins Sports in the very first Staffs FA organised competition for players aged over 35. Unfortunately 5 of the 7 teams dropped out at late notice and it was decided to play 8 v 8 over 35 minutes each way – which is quite a long time for many of the players!
With zimmers parked on the side of the pitch, hearing aids turned up and walking sticks given to the 4th official, both teams set off at an amazing pace in a match at Longton Rugby Club. Unfortunately that pace reduced after 5 minutes!
The old uns from Wyrley were made up of: –
Shaun Ponder, Vice Chairman and manager of our Under 15s Cougars – tremendous performance in goal.
Richard Cooper, Manager of Under 10s Jaguars – magnificent aerial performance and cool coming out of defence.
Matt Love, Manager of our Under 8s Panthers – his semi pro skills haven’t been lost!
Stewart Wood, Manager of our Under 8s Lions – cool under pressure at right back.
Andy Barber – Manager of our Under 10s Girls Lionesses – showed his pace and scored one of the goals.
John Lowe – Manager of our Under 7s Tigers – had some stick from his son on the side!
Kevin Ward – Manager of our Under 10s Girls Panthers – deceptively quick and scorer of 2 goals.
Jason Smith – Assistant Manager of our Under 7s Tigers – held the ball up very well and scored 1 goal.
Keith Hardy – only turned up to watch but put on a kit. Ensured the average age went up above 40!
The other goal was an own goal.
As Wyrley won the competition – we are claiming to be County Champions – well done (old!) boys!
It is likely that there will be a monthly event – any managers, coaches or parents interested in taking part, please get in touch!
Now for my cocao!
Picture of the teams below.
Staffs FA website report re game http://www.staffordshirefa.com/News/2010/10/Over35sRollBackTheYears.htm