Squad:

Dom GK
Kingy
Ada
Jason
Darren
Phil
Dave Cpt

 

Subs:

 

Ian
Matt
Nick H

 

On a lovely day at Baypoint, BayCity Strollers and Margate served up an entertaining 3–3 draw in a lively over-50s walking football encounter.

 

BayCity made a bright start and took the lead after 10 minutes, with Dave Beale benefiting from a more advanced role to open the scoring. He soon doubled the advantage with an excellent long-range effort, giving BayCity a deserved 2–0 lead at the break.

 

The second half saw a shift in momentum. Whether it was a sluggish restart from BayCity or a more determined Margate side, the visitors began to take control. Their pressure paid off when they were awarded a penalty for a fourth running offence, which they converted to pull a goal back. Margate then drew level with a well-taken strike, bringing the score to 2–2.

 

BayCity responded and were themselves awarded a penalty for Margate’s fourth running offence. Beale stepped up confidently to complete his hat-trick and restore the lead at 3–2.

 

However, with time running out, a loose cross-field ball fell kindly to Margate’s Eddie Winch, who made no mistake in slotting home the equaliser to secure a share of the spoils.

 

Both goalkeepers deserve special mention—Dom Joyce for BayCity and Paul Love for Margate—each producing a number of fine saves to keep their sides in the contest.

 

Thanks also go to referee Chris Smith for overseeing the match.

 

A competitive and enjoyable game played in great spirit, reflecting the best of walking football.

 

Match report by Ada Dawson.