Strollers Cup July 2025

The second Strollers Cup was contested on a hot and humid afternoon at the TEC ground.The challenge began with a coin toss between team managers Andy Baker and Dave Dutton to decide which team would get choice of kit.Andy won the coin toss and chose the Red kit so leaving Dave with the Black/White kit. On to match day itself ,and in front of a noisy and expectant crowd ,they were rewarded with a goal fest and some good football to watch.Rob Weale ,camera in hand ,was there to record the days action. The Reds took the lead with a fine strike from Rob Hughes. A second goal from Scott Smith put the Reds into a 2 goal lead. The Black/Whites team created chances but Ricky in goal made some good saves to ensure his team went in at half time with their lead intact. Both Managers made changes at half time so to give game time to everyone. The 2nd half kicked off with both teams precariously on the edge of committing a 4th offence for running…the game was flowing end to end but stopped when Andy Dilley blew his whistle and pointed to the penalty spot…penalty to the Reds awarded for a 4th running offence by the Black/Whites. Up stepped John Munro and his calm strike down the middle put the Reds 3 up. The Black /Whites responded searching for a quick reply passing the ball around.The refs whistle blew again and their play was rewarded with the Reds committing a 4th running offence. Trevor Jones was given the opportunity to reduce the deficit from the penalty spot. Despite Rickys ‘gamesmanship’ he couldn’t stop the ball finding the back of his net ! 3-1 and with time left in the game. Despair for the Black/Whites when following a decent save from Steve Fitter,the ball rolled out of the area to an unmarked Rob Hughes, who slotted the ball home for his 2nd goal. Game over and a 4-1 victory for the Reds. The game was played in the right spirit and well done to both teams for an entertaining match. Many thanks to Andy Dilley for reffing the game in an excellent manner. Dave Iliffe presented the winners trophy and medals to the Reds followed by a much deserved beer (or two !) at Two Gates Sports & Social Club.