Three Lincolnshire footballers have returned from Spain as world cup winners.
Roy of the Rovers stuff!
Steve Slater and John Sykes both successfully defended their FIFWA Nations Cup titles after helping England to glory two years ago on home turf at St George’s Park, while teammate Adrian Hewerdine tasted success in his first foray into the biggest tournament in walking football.
And each player also had their own special success story at the tournament, which was played in temperatures of up to 30C at the Torrevieja Sport City, near Murcia, last week.
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For Wyberton-based defender Steve, his first goal of the tournament was the winner in the final, a 15-yard low drive which was enough to see the Three Lions’ over 60s defeat rivals Northern Ireland 1-0.
Goalkeeper John, from Donington, feared he would have to retire from the game he loves following a shoulder injury last year, but put in the hard work to ensure he could return to action with the over 70s team, keeping five clean sheets in the tournament.
Keeper Adrian, meanwhile, said it was a dream come true as he played his part in the over 50s’ victory, believing his playing days were well behind him after hanging up his gloves two decades ago.
“I’ve gone back looking through my primary school books where I was writing about winning the World Cup all those years ago, it’s Roy of the Rovers stuff,” said 66-year-old Steve, who plays his club football at Boston United along with Adrian and John.
“It was nice to go back and win it again. It was more challenging this year as other nations are getting better.
“We had a bit of a scare in the semi-final, we beat Spain 3-2. But with 10 minutes to go we were 2-1 down. It was a tight game.”
However, the England over 60s squad made it through to the final where Steve had his chance to clinch the trophy with his 12th-minute goal.
The tournament – which followed a group stage and knockout format – was a truly global affair with Australia, Canada, Singapore, Italy, France, Hong Kong and Japan among the nations represented…
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Author: The Walking Football
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