BWFC OVER 60's CENTRAL REGION FINAL

Birmingham Over 60s travelled to Leicester for the Walking Football Central Region Final. Unfortunately Wisbech withdrew so it ended up as a head to head with Bramcote from Nottingham area.

There were team changes due to injury and unavailability and Steve Evans made his debut in midfield with Malcolm Thorp who had recovered from injury in time to play. Birmingham made a slow start and Bramcote were gifted their only clear cut chance after a few minutes with their player one on one with Les in goal who as reliable as ever was able to parry the shot for a corner. The game settled into a stalemate with both sides cancelling each other out, chances were at a premium with large goal areas and lengthy pitch making it difficult for both midfields to support attackers.

Birmingham began to have most of the play but Bramcote were well organised and frustrated most of the attacks not allowing Dave W any real opportunities to hit the target. The second half continued in the same vein with Bramcote content to frustrate with some well drilled possession football in their own half. Birmingham worked hard but were unable to get the vital goal and at full time the score was 0-0. The game then went to a further 10 minutes each way with Birmingham continuing to be frustrated by Bramcote who appeared happy to settle for penalties. Eventually Dave W managed to get a one on one with the keeper who made an excellent save with his legs and a couple more half chances were thwarted by their impressive keeper. Les in goal for Birmingham had only had to make two saves in an hour of football but all credit to Bramcote who frustrated Birmingham and had put them in with a chance of going through to the National Finals.

Birmingham missed their first two penalties with their keeper again saving well. Bramcote scored their first but hit the bar with their second and Steve Evans coolly slotted home for Birmingham. The Bramcote captain had to score to win and his shot hit the bar but rebounded down over the line to send them through.

A disappointing end for Birmingham 60s who had knocked out last year’s champions Hartshill and progressed to this stage without letting in a goal. Thanks to all the players for their sterling performances.

Well done to Bramcote who reached the National Finals and finished 3rd overall.