BARRIE’S OUR NEW FNL KING!
Hopper scoops top prize
THINGS can’t possibly get much better for Barrie New right now – everything he touches in football turns to gold!
Not only has the ground-hopping-mad south coast resident seen his beloved Havant & Waterlooville win the Ryman Premier, weeks later he scooped a cool £2,000 as our winner of the fantastic Fantasy NonLeague challenge.
In addition to that, the 70-year-old has made friends in the right places – catching lifts to games with the manager of his local club so he can tick off as many grounds as possible.
Not bad for someone who has just had a fantastic two weeks away in Florida!
He said: “It’s not been too shabby this last month or so, it’s fair to say. Havant’s success has been great to see but my groundhopping has taken over a bit this year.
“I’ve been to 57 new grounds this season, I get a great kick out of it and I love visiting stadiums I haven’t been to and seeing new teams.
“I’m 70 now, I don’t drive so I need a bit of help here and there. One person in particular who has been fantastic to me is Louie
Bell. He’s the manager of Baffins Milton Rovers, a club in the Wessex League. He’s been so helpful and has given me a lift to seven games this season.
“I am already looking at more new grounds for next season to go to and it can’t come soon enough!”
New’s Fantasy team – Carry On Dick – were worthy victors and it always helps when you can pick out league winners.
He fought off the challenge of Mick Seal’s Roots Hall, who took second place and £750, and also from Jennie’s Allstars who lived up to their name by scooping boss Jennie Bullock a welcome £300.
“I managed to select seven of the league’s champions and four of the play-off winners,” explained Barrie.
“Last year I came fifth, and I knew towards the end that I had a really good chance this time with so many of my sides doing well. I’ve been playing the game for so long and I had the feeling that I was getting closer but it was incredible to return from holiday and hear the good news.”
When asked about what he will be putting the £2,000 prize towards, there came a predictable answer. “Getting to even more matches!” our winner laughed. “Groundhopping can be costly so it will come in very handy.
“There could be some family rivalry at the top of the table if things go to plan because my brother is getting better and better so it’s going to be another interesting season.”