Our first game in the inaugural Lincs FA 60+ Walking Football league was against Gainsborough. The Strollers had a bright start creating a few chances and the pressure resulted in a Penalty converted by Tim Marden. This was followed by a goal from Glyn William. After half time Ian Scarborough came in making his Strollers debut and finished off a quality pass from Colin Kirby with a crisp shot in to the top corner. 3-0 win!
Next up was Sleaford with occassional Stroller Graham Curry on their side - felt a bit strange not playing alongside him! A much quicker tempo game with our goalie Bill Whittle making some great stops early on. A shot from Sleaford took a lucky deflection off another Sleaford player and we found ourselves 1-0 down at half time. In the second half Stamford developed a couple of half chances and Chris Keirl ensured our defence was well controlled. Ian S picked up a knock and had to go off. Taking an opportunity to move further forward Paul Beard hit a shot that was half saved but YES it still hit the back of the net! Some half chances for both sides - honours even. 1-1 draw.
Our final game was Grimsby Corinthians (Whites). Again a quick tempo start from both teams with Bill Whittle again doing a great job between the sticks. An unfortunate defensive mix up resulted in a deflected ball landing at their striker's feet to knock it in. We did our best to make some clear opportunities resulting in a penalty, unfortunately saved by the Gk. Strollers went all out for the equaliser but just couldn't get the ball in the back of their net. 0-1 loss.
Thanks guys, in that heat we really did play some good football and very disciplined. Onwards and upwards to Bourne next month for the 2nd set of fixtures.
Strollers 3 Gainsborough 0 (Marsden, Williams, Scarborough)
Strollers 1 Sleaford 1 (Beard)
Strollers 0 Grimsby 1
Squad:
Bill Whittle GK
Chris Keirl
Tim Marsden
Paul Beard (C)
Glyn Williams
Colin Kirby
Ian Scarborough