Wales o65s lose out to England!

The Wales Veterans' Football Association accepted an invitation to send an o65s squad to Staffordshire to face an England team at the home of the English FA, St George’s Park, but lost out to their tactically sharper, opponents...writes Rob Seago....

Following an inspiring rendition of both anthems, the game got underway apace and in the opening exchanges Wales impressed going forward with some fine inter-play between midfield and attack. However, at the back they looked nervous in possession and former FA Vase winner, Groom, was creating problems with his astute movement and intelligent passing and when the Welsh defence failed to clear their lines in the tenth minute a mix-up led to an England free-kick on the edge of the box, subsequently fired into the top corner by full back, Collett, giving Meacham no chance. Wales were undeterred and resumed their offensive with confidence and sharp passing but failed to create any significant chances in the opposition box.

Immediately following the first water break after 20 mins Wales were caught napping from an England corner which was cleverly flicked into Meacham’s far corner by man of the match, Groom. Although England had established a 2-0 lead, slightly against the run of play, Wales persevered with their game plan and went back on the attack and although they created a few half-chances where Williams went close, England stayed strong and resolute and saw the first half out without any further trouble.

The second half saw a number of changes to personnel, England rotating their 20-man squad to good effect whilst Wales gambled with three at the back, pushing Davies forward and going with their alternative front line. A fine passing started by Wales mom, Branch, found Edwards in space and his sharply struck shot from outside the box drew a fine save from the England keeper, Cox. More and more of the game was played in the England half but their goal was never really threatened. Late pressure from the England side led to a flurry of corners but they were denied by a fine tip over the bar by Meacham....and England deservedly retained the Dermot Gallagher Trophy.

Congratulations to the following players, selected to make the trip:

Alan Meacham - Swansea
Ian Edwards - Swansea
Paul Fisher – Merthyr Tydfil
John Jordan - Newport
Phil Gibb - Barry Town
Les Davies - Penybont
Stu Evans - Swansea
Steve Branch - Swansea
Alun Huish (Capt) - Barry Town
Peter Morgan - Penybont
Mike Bobbit - Barry Town
Paul Staddon - Barry Town
Anthony O’Sullivan – Merthyr Tydfil
Stu McKay - Barry Town
Jon Williams - Newport
Nick Moglia - Penybont
Manager: Rob Seago
Asst manager: Leighton Gates