Rochdale Over 65's Cup - Heywood - 9th June 2017

“The ability level of the over 65s taking part in this tournament was again much higher than we expected. Perhaps we need a recruitment drive for more members in this category, or further work to do on the training ground.” John Myatt, Team Captain

The second competitive tournament for the over 65s saw a squad of seven travel to Heywood (Rochdale) to take part in a 10 team tournament organised by link4life.

Wanderers squad comprised Mick Wilde (under age keeper),Colin Boyes, Dave Cossins, John Jones, John Myatt, John Rooke & Paul Waggett.

We were drawn in Division A alongside:

Vintage Celtic
Rochdale Strollers (last minute entry replacing Retro Rovers)
Manchester Community WF
Blackpool Very Senior Seasiders

It was good to welcome Colin & Paul to their first tournament and all the players enjoyed the cut and thrust of the tournament. The results were disappointing, with the Wanderers losing all four games and not managing to find the net despite many attempts including Dave Cossins hitting the post with a sublime strike from his cultured left foot.

The first match saw us lose 1-0 to Vintage Celtic with the same outcome in the next games against Rochdale and then Manchester. Sadly, the final game saw a further defeat, this time 2-0 to Blackpool. All games were decided by ‘fine margins’ and our boys paid a heavy price for momentary lapses of concentration and leaving our shooting boots back in West Yorkshire. Or was it that we were all worn out by staying up beyond normal bedtime to watch the Election results start rolling in – who knows?

Despite the setback of losing all games the Wanderers squad are looking forward to further competitions when opportunities arise.

At least Colin Boyes kept us well entertained with tales from his recent visit to France where he had stocked up on wine. Sounds like a good trip!

John Myatt
Team Captain

Updated 16:05 - 2 Sep 2019 by David Holbrow