Wales o70s defeat England!

Wales Veterans' Football hosted an o70s international between Wales and England at Penybont on 14th June...and the hosts lifted the trophy after a narrow 1-0 win...

In stifling heat and in front of a decent crowd, Wales started well, Gerald Jones orchestrating and striker, Peter Morgan a constant threat....sadly, however, they failed to capitalise during a dominant first twenty minutes. The visitors gradually worked their way into the game...and the remainder of the first half became a midfield arm-wrestle and at the interval the game remained scoreless.

During the half-time interval, Julie Caffell, wife of former player Brian, who is sadly suffering from Dementia, was presented with a special Welsh cap in recognition of Brian's contribution to veterans football in Wales. Everyone in the veterans' football community offers their best wishes to Brian and his family

The second half, was much slower paced, the intense heat a major factor and understandably, the players were clearly affected.... But there was still plenty of 'goalmouth' activity...one superb, dizzying run by chief tormentor, Morgan came to nothing and the same player was able to get two shots away, but unfortunately (for Wales) both too close to the English keeper. At the other end, English talisman, Geoff Hargreaves was starting to influence proceedings and provided decent opportunities for strike partners, Mike Bernie and Rob Beel, the latter seeing his fine shot comfortably fielded by Wales' gloveman, Phil Williams.

Inevitably it was a mistake that decided the match and a mix-up in the English defence was seized upon by the ever-alert Morgan, and he calmly slotted home. The visitors responded and although they dominated the later part of the match, the Welsh rearguard stood firm, with John Jordan outstanding, and they held on for a hard-fought victory.

Congratulations to the following players who were selected by managers, Alun Huish and Jon Ross...
Phil Williams (GK) Newport
Paul ‘Sasha’ Young Newport
John Jordan Newport
Handley Brustad Newport
Mark Entwhistle Newport
Tony Boucher Merthyr Tydfil
Paul Williams Barry Town
Gerald Jones Newport
Mike Williams Penybont
Steve Hold Penybont
Phil Tovey Swansea
Dave Abbott Newport
Paul Diaper Newport
Howard Peterson Barry Town
Peter Morgan Penybont
Nigel Gallagher Newport