On a glorious summer morning in August the Strollers took to the pitch again to take on the might of Herne Bay over 60’s.  (OK – it was overcast with a bit of rain which made it look like we were sweating.)  Controversially the opposition didn’t realise that they needed their away kit as both teams were in blue.  Requests for a walkover were ignored so the only solution was for Herne Bay to wear their shirts inside out (one of them going to the extreme measure of doing the same with his shorts).

So the scene was set for the BayPoint El Classico to begin and a good sign – the toss was won. After a bright start the first goal was conceded with a neat finish in off the post.  Plenty of changes were made throughout the half in an attempt to confuse the opponents but alas two more goals were conceded to make it 0-3 down at half time.

Strollers started the second half much better and we defended well with Nigel excelling at getting the boot in and Bruce holding the ball up well in attack.  We even managed a few attempts on goal.  Then disaster struck as a BayCity defender was punished for standing in the penalty area – no names mentioned, but Les be honest, it was unlucky.  The penalty was duly dispatched and the fifth goal was conceded just before the finish in what can only be described as a bit of a cock-up.

Herne Bay were worthy winners with their excellent passing game and patience making space and keeping the ball, but the Strollers never gave in and all worked incredibly hard to try and deny space springing forward when possible.

So to the bar and a quick rendition of Monty Python’s You Were Lucky and then home to rest our aching legs and dreams of ‘It could have been oh so different if we hadn’t conceded all those goals…’   At least Bruce had the Charity Shield to look forward to.

Squad:

Lawrence
Jim
Gordon
Rob
Chris
Les
Nigel
Bruce

Jim Dobson