Today Stamford Strollers had the pleasure of playing in the over 55's 6 a-side memorial competition at the new Boston United 3g ground. A 5 team Round Robin with the top 2 teams playing out a final for the trophy.
Strollers squad today:
Robin Gosling (GK), Paul E Beard, Will Barrett, Paul Kirby, Jez Norris, Paul Archer & Colin Barret-Treen
Before kick off everyone stood around the centre circle to applaud the contribution Deb Slater had made to Walking Football.
Strollers first game was against Sleaford. Strollers started well with some good neat passing and after some interplay went 1- 0 up with a goal from Will B. Sleaford looked to press for the equaliser allowing Paul K & Jez N both to score. Strollers win 3-0
Next game v Boston - we knew would be a close one! Both teams having chances with both GKs making some good saves. Some quality passing enabled Jez N to find the net mid way through the game. Strollers had to then absorb some real pressure from Boston as they pressed for the equaliser & managed to see the game out. Strollers win 1-0.
Our 3rd game v Swineshead Allstar looked like our hardest game, the Allstars the team included Gary Wildsmith, Dave Scotney, Slats, & Son of Slats - Max! and so it proved. A real competitive game with half chances at both ends & some good saves from both keepers (well done Robin!). The Allstars continue to press and Strollers managed to keep them at bay until the very last minute! A smart turn & shot found the corner from Dave Scotney gave the Allstars the lead. Strollers had one last attack to find a goal, but not to be. Strollers lose 0-1.
Our final game v Wisbech was another tough game, never easy against these guys! Chances both ends and Wisbech hit the net early in the game. Stamford pressed hard and eventually made an opportunity for Will B to shoot past the keeper for the equaliser. Strollers managed to defend well and control the last few minutes to secure the draw to take them in to the final! 1-1
Final: Strollers v Swineshead Allstars
This picked up where we left off in the 3rd game! A tight competitive start and eventually Swineshead's Allstars Striker - "Son of Slats Max" converted a chance "on the 'EDGE' of the Penalty Area!" to make it 1-0. Stamford chased the game, working hard to create a few half chances but couldn't find a way past the Allstars GK. Strollers lose in the FINAL 0-1 to Swineshead's Allstars.
A presentation after the final took place with words of thanks from Dave Scotney and a moving speech from Steve "Slats" Slater.
A superb tournament, played in the right spirit, very competitive, played with a smile and RESPECT to all those taking part. Thanks for the invite Dave Scotney and Steve Slater and for making this happen.
Photo below of the Strollers Squad with their Runners Up Medals. A great team effort.
