WFA National Cup Over 50's

Just when you think things can't go wrong, sod's law happens!  With just over two hours to kick off, we get a call from the allocated referee to say that he has had a tyre blow-out on the way and won't be able to make the game!  Panic stations, what happens now, with the opposition already on their way and no one to referee?Fortunately, both sides were happy for the game to go ahead and so was the WFA National Cup Manager, provided we could find a referee.  Fortune shone upon us and George Gunnell, was on hand and both sides agreed to George officiating for this WFA National Cup 2nd Round. 

So, with a sizeable support arriving we manged to kick-off a little later than planned.

Without sounding rude or unfair AFC Wimbledon's average age did look a little older than our squad, so it was no surprise that we dominated possesion for most of the game, which was played in the true spirit of the game, giving our stand-in ref little to do, other than to give the odd foul and running offence.

The game ebbed and flowed with Dave Bradbury in goal having very little to do. However, the breakthrough came midway through the first half, with a lovely through ball from Jim Holmes to Barry Crane, who made no mistake with his turn and shot.

With the first half drawing to a close, a magnificent long range shot from defender Paul Lowe found the top corner of the net to double what was a well desrved lead at the break.

The second half was a replica of the first, with us bossing possesion and our defence and midfield giving Wimbledon few chances, apart from a few long range efforts. Another good passage of play saw Nick Brand down the right wing cross a superb ball across the box, to find Pete Cooper unmarked at the far post to finish.

Everyone played a part in this dominant performance and although we scored three, it could have been more, if not for some great saves from the Wimbledon keeper. 3-0 the final score.

This was a great advert for walking football with both sides enjoying playing the game in the spirit it is intended.  Well done to both sides!

Squad: Dave Bradbury, Paul Lowe, Mark Gunnell, Jim Holmes, Pete Cooper, Barry Crane, Matt Toms, Pat Corregan, Nick Brand