The Scarborough Barons Walking Football over-65s team recovered from the early loss of their goalkeeper to win the Eurocopa Plate Trophy final in Portugal.

Scarborough Barons Walking Football player Graham Thomson said: “We recently came back from Portugal after taking part in the Eurocopa Over-65s Walking Football Tournament.

“We managed to get through to the final of the Plate Trophy and secured a 2-1 victory.

“Our club which is based in Scarborough have been going over to Portugal for the past several years with our Over-50s and Over-60s, and both teams have it made through to the finals of the Eurocopa Walking Football Tournament but unfortunately have been beaten in both finals.

“So, for our over-65s this was a great achievement to win the Plate Trophy final considering we lost our goalkeeper in the first game and we had to play the remaining nine games with two outfield players taking turns in goal.

The Scarborough Barons Walking Football over-65s team recovered from the early loss of their goalkeeper to win the Eurocopa Plate Trophy final in Portugal.
Joining Graham in the triumphant team were Fred Bramham, Martin Woof, Dave Pepper, Brian Vasey, Rich Mirfin, Tom Gillion, Vinny Rafferty and Ron Glegg, — Pic credit: Scarborough Barons Walking Football team

Joining Graham in the triumphant team were Fred Bramham, Martin Woof, Dave Pepper, Brian Vasey, Rich Mirfin, Tom Gillion, Vinny Rafferty and Ron Glegg,

Player-manager John Horton had to pull out just before the tournament.

The Barons Walking Football teams went out to Portugal the following week to participate in the over-50/60s tournament.

Graham added: “Our Over-50s finished fifth in their group, then played against Pollock Utd (from Glasgow) and unfortunately were beaten 3-0 in the final for the Trophy final.

“Our Over-60s finished second in their group and progressed to the Cup Trophy section for the top teams who finished first and second in their groups, unfortunately they just failed to progress to the finals

“They had a great tournament playing 11 games and only lost one game.

“Both teams played really well against some of the best Walking Football teams in Europe and have definitely raised the name of Scarborough Barons in the Walking Football world.

“Hopefully we have raised the profile of Walking Football and would encourage anyone over 50 to get involved whether to play competitive or just for the social side it is great for your health and well-being.

“This has been a great benefit for Over-50/60/65/70s to get together and take part regardless of ability or disability all are welcome. It proves that at our ages we can still dream and make our dreams come true.”

Source: https://www.thescarboroughnews.co.uk/sport/football/scarborough-barons-walking-football-team-wins-eurocopa-plate-trophy-7819560