Charities boosted as vets take on TV stars
THE FA Amateur Cup returned to Skem for the first time in over 50 years, along with a number of the legends of the team that won the trophy back in 1971.
The stars of yesteryear competed against the stars of Hollyoaks in the Mayor of West Lancashire Borough Council’s Charity Football Match.
The Skem United Vets team included players with over 2,000 games between them including while the Hollyoaks lineup boasted a number of well known TV Celebrities from the TV Show, led by Nick Pickard and a handful of “hunks” that had the girls in the crowd swooning.
A competitive game from the off, the Hollyoaks cast showed some neat touches that saw them take the lead through Mazz Ajtar.
The Vets then came into their own, Dave Standley and Tony Hallam at the back looking as though they had never been away. Kev Leadbetter and United guests – former Liverpool players Alan Kennedy and Howard Gayle – were making them tick in midfield and it was through the midfield that United drew level, Carl Osman set up John Carroll who shot from all of 30 yards that beat the keeper all ends up.
United had to make a change in goal after an injury to Robbie Holcroft, ‘flying winger’ Paul Tynan taking over between the sticks.
The weather began to take its toll in the second half, some of the United players had not pulled on a kit for a number of years and many went down with cramp but they were not about to give up as John Carroll netted his second to put them in front.
Former Wigan Athletic star Jason Jarrett, guesting for the TV side, created the best of their chances and showed a great turn of foot on a number of occasions.
It was down to the last minute when the goal of the game settled it in favour of the Vets as Mero Waugh hit a thunderbolt from the edge of the box that nearly broke the back of the net.
It was a great game in some beautiful sunshine and a game enjoyed by all who took part, some of the Skem lads are already looking forward to getting together again next season, although many will have a few days to get over the aches and pains from Sunday!
Vets defender Ian Price commented: “It was great to see some of the old lads again, its been a long time, hopefully we will do it again but I’m off now for a good soak,” – sentiments echoed by team mate Dave Barton!
Mayor of West Lancashire Borough Council, Cllr Gordon Johnson, said: “Having had time to reflect on the West Lancashire Borough Council Mayor’s Charity Football Game played at JMO Sports Limited on Sunday I have to say what a fantastic day it was.
“Having the 1971 Skelmersdale United FA Amateur Cup winning players there together with the actual Trophy, kindly on loan from the National Football Museum, added to the event even more.
“Skelmersdale, you did yourself proud, hopefully we can try and make this an annual event!”