Moulton Masters v Stamford 70 (and some younger ones). Moulton, 10th December, 2021
Taff wishes it to be known he is nowhere near 70, but Moulton agreed he could play in goals so that we could get a squad of 7 players together.
It was an early morning start to get to the southern outskirts of Northampton for a 10.00 am kick off. The fear of morning rush hour hold-ups didn’t materialise however, (perhaps there is a genuine shortage of lorry drivers), and most of us got there early enough to have a welcome Costa at the local Co-op.
We played a round Robin against three Moulton teams, winning two and drawing the third in what turned out to be a thoroughly enjoyable morning.
Match 1: this was a difficult start as we had a team predominantly of defenders and we took a little time to settle. We were the dominant team but the only goal of the game came when the home goalkeeper’s pass out was intercepted by Bob W who fired home with his left foot from close range, albeit some said it took a wicked deflection on its way into the net. Strollers then saw the game out quite well with the only scare being a penalty to Moulton following a defender encroaching into the penalty area. Taff’s steely stare obviously put the penalty taker off as the shot was well off target. W1-0 (Wood)
Match 2: First half we played our best football of the day and were two to the good by half time. Firstly, Brian latched onto a ball fed to him across the front of the box, then an excellent goal as sterling work by Frank set up Bob W, who’s left foot shot rifled into the net. A resolute defensive display in the second half saw Strollers win at relative ease. W2-0 (Dunkerley, Wood)
Match 3: Unquestionably the toughest match as Strollers took time to get going and were probably outplayed for the first five minutes. Gradually we took control and Bob L scored a good team goal. By half time Strollers were managing the game. However, on the restart, some lapse in concentration in the defence let the Moulton player stride through and he picked his spot and rolled the ball into the corner. Stamford had chances thereafter with Bob W and Brian hitting the post. D1-1 (Lear)
This was a thoroughly enjoyable morning with matches played in a very sporting manner, excellently refereed and facilities were equally top class. After changing it was back to the club house for a coffee and a chat as players from both sides sat with each other.
Special thanks to Moulton for their warm welcome and who are looking to come to Stamford in the New Year. A special mention to Phil Andrews from Moulton who organised the event and, before we left, send me a message – ‘Safe journey, see you soon’ which was a nice touch.
Strollers Squad: Back: Frank Smith, Bob Lear, Colin Murrant, Brian Dunkerley Front: Trevor Oliver, Taff Lovesey, Bob Wood