After receiving a bye in the previous round following Gosport’s no-show, the Many Shades found themselves in the Walking Football Union South East Zone C final up against AFC Wimbledon and the Uxbridge Amblers.

Back : Stewart Russell, Dave Rowbrey, Richard Bishop, Ian Warren
Front : Martyn Bishop, Jeff Pickering, Pete Dolamore, Steve Hall

The first match in this round-robin tournament pitched the Wimbledon Crazy Gang (in blue) against Uxbridge. Despite Wimbledon taking an early lead, an experienced Uxbridge side were too strong and ran out convincing winners.
The draw had given the Many Shades an opportunity to suss out both teams prior to playing them. Their first match was against the Crazy Gang and, once again, the Wombles managed to grab an early goal from a well worked free-kick. Unfortunately, the Many Shades were unable to do an Uxbridge and despite keeping the score at 0-1 for some time, Wimbledon built on their lead and ran out worthy winners.

So the final game of the tournament saw the Many Shades needing a victory against the Uxbridge Amblers. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be and the Uxbridge Amblers ran out winners and deservedly progressed to the next round.
But (and it’s a big BUT), the highlight of the day was undoubtedly the wonder goal scored by Steve Hall during the Many Shades’ match against Uxbridge.
Wonderful link up play from the back, precision passing in midfield and a clinical finish from Steve gave us a moment to tell our grandchildren about.

So many congratulations to the Uxbridge Amblers and best of luck in the next round.
Also, many thanks to Uxbridge for a well organised tournament and for their wonderful hospitality.

The Many Shades celebrate another successful (ahem!) tournament.