Another final for Strollers!

So close…

Today Stamford Strollers 50s were in action again at Heacham’s tournament, played in nearby Hunstanton. A no-show from another team meant a change of format, going from two groups to one.

Our day started with a goalless draw with Heacham who barely entered our half. However, we could not convert any of the numerous chances we created. It was a similar story against Hampton Utd although they did muster the odd attack. James McAdie’s goal against Peterborough All Stars was enough for the win in another dominant performance. Paul Giffen and Pedro Melero got the goals in a 2-0 win over Kings Lynn before we met old foes Norwich SOCA Seniors. This finished 1-1 with Paul Giffen netting the equaliser. Our final group match saw us draw 1-1 with Oundle - Paul Giffen equalising with a penalty that was the last kick of the match.

So after six games we had won the group but had to sit through a three-way penalty shootout with a neutral goalkeeper to find out our opponents in the final. Of course, it was Norwich SOCA again.

Strollers dominated possession in the final without creating many clear-cut chances and so the trophy was decided on penalties. However, as the trophy and “medals” were being given out by a local MP, who wanted to leave, it was straight to sudden death penalties. We went first and missed. NSS scored to take the trophy for the third successive year. It was a harsh way to lose but we were absolutely the best team there today, and played well in every game.

I didn’t play much today - only going on when any of our lads got within one offence of a blue card (WFA rules) but it was an easy day to be a manager with lots of positivity and support and some really good football from a smashing set of lads.