WFA National Cup Over 70's

This was an historic event being our first ever competitive Over 70's squad taking on Barnet WFC in the First Round of the WFA National Cup at The Hive, Barnet FC.

It was always going to be a stiff test as Barnet not only have several English internatinals at this level, but they have also played together for a few years. However, for the first ten minutes our lads had most of the ball but without creating many clear cut chances.  Then against the run of play, a well worked piece of play saw Barnet open the scoring. Shortly afterwards Steve Beament saw his shot tipped into the net from Barnet's keeper, only for it to be ruled out due to the initial shot been overhead height. A harsh decision but that's football.  The game at this point was being played at an aggresive fast pace for walking football and several players were walking a tight-rope regarding being blue carded. Laurence Hardwick in goal looked comfortable, saving everything that came his way. Half-time 1-0.

The second half started in the same manner with our lads matching the experienced Barnet team man for man. The introduction of Bernie Biggerstaff at half-time gave our attack a different option up-front, but the equaliser wasn't easy to find.  However, the turning point came midway through the half when Barnet were attacking and a shout from one of their players 'leave it' wrong footed our defence, leaving their lone striker to tap home.  This technically should have been ruled out but again, that's football.  Barnet's third goal was even more annoying as once the ball had gone dead, we made our second change and before John Lewis was allowed to be in position, the referree allowed them to take the free kick. Again, technically this should have been ruled out.

With around five minutes to go we were awarded a penalty for four running offences and Brian Kemp, who had been solid in midfield all game, duly dispatched it. 3-1 the final score.

So our first ever Over 70's game ended with a defeat, which even Barnet's manager admitting that it 'wasn't a 3-1 game' and so we can be proud, as every man played their part and we can hold our heads high.

The lads would also like to thank the amazing support we had from our fellow club members, including our Chairman Paul 'Dougie' Church.

Squad: Laurence Hardwick, Steve Beament, Nigel Walker, Barry Lustigman, John Lewis, Brian Kemp, Mike Wood, Bernie Biggerstaff.