Veterans Fixture - England v Wales
Solihull Moors is proud to be hosting their first international Veterans football match on May 3rd at the Armco stadium between England and Wales over 65s with kick off at 7pm.
It is remarkable to many people that we have a national sides with players all over 65, playing 11 aside football for 90 minutes on a full size pitch – Even more remarkable is the intensity, athleticism and skills on display.
Players are recruited from Veterans leagues and County sides from across the country and represent the top players in this age group.
Although none of the players in these squads represented England at senior level, the new wave of over 50s players is attracting more and more top pros and athletes. Vets Football President Frank Clark ( European cup winner with Notts Forest in 1979) says “It’s a great motivation for players who keep themselves fit and sharp as they get older – It also means you never have to hang up your boots and that dream of representing your country never dies.”
Featuring in the England over 65’s team is one of Solihull Moors ex-players, a hero of the late 1970s John Powell – who also played for Kidderminster in the Football League.
The England Over 65’s Manger Chris Wintle says – “John is one of our key players and still has that uncanny ability to influence games at critical times. He scored twice with 2 excellent strikes last time we played Wales and he was one of the most influential players that day in our 3-2 victory.”
Leading the England team out on the day will be Peter Coffill, 67. Peter is captain of the England vets 65s team. And an ex-professional footballer, playing over 250 games in the English Football league for Watford, Torquay, and Northampton Town. One of Peter’s memorable career highlights was lining up against the great George Best.
England and Wales are competing for the Dermot Gallagher Cup. Dermot has been a great supporter of veteran’s soccer and often referees the internationals at St Georges Park – but when he is not available he helps find ex professional refs to take charge.
The referee for this game is Chris Banks whose last match was the Varsity game at Wembley.
Solihull Moors is helping to build awareness and interest in Vets football and we are inviting people to come along to the Armco stadium to support the teams and add to the occasion by wearing England or Wales football shirts and making a noise.
It is also a great opportunity for anyone curious about playing football as a Veteran, whether that’s to be inspired to carry on playing, to return to the pitch and play again, or chase the dream of representing their country.
Ticket prices are Just £5 for adults: £4 for seniors: and £3 under 18s and under 12s are free - Some of the profits will go towards the Solihull Moors community fund to support local football and community initiatives.
The game is being sponsored by Rebel Energy an emerging new energy supply company. – They are big fans of England Veterans and we would like to thank them for their generous interest and support. They may also be offering special energy deals for switching gas and electricity on the day, so another good reason to come to the match on May 3rd
