TEIGN Drifters’ over-60s walking football team proved too much for the opposition on Sunday, July 27, winning the tournament at the Devon FA Headquarters in Newton Abbot.

After a tricky start against favourites South Hams which ended in a hotly contested 0-0 draw, next on the agenda was a battle against old rivals Torbay.

This was another tight affair and the deadlock was eventually broken, courtesy of an Ian Pybus special from a tight angle. Torbay had their chances but Peter Williams in goal thwarted all their attempts.

Next up was a clash with Exeter Strollers, who were full of confidence, but Ian struck twice and was joined on the scoresheet by Dave Fay in a 3-0 win.

With two games left, the Drifters had to overcome a well-drilled Plymouth side to maintain their title hopes. A professionally dispatched Dave Fay penalty made the difference.

The final game was a final in itself, versus Newton Abbot. The winner would win the tournament.

Drifters started quickly with a snapshot from frontman Pete Lee bursting the net. Newton Abbot fought back but a sure-footed Drifter’s defence of Steve Roberts, Phil Waite and goalkeeper Peter Williams stood firm. Coupled with a steely midfield of Neil McEwan and Martyn Izzard, they were able to soak up all of the pressure.

Finally, in the dying minutes, a swift Drifter’s break saw Ian Pybus one on one with the goalkeeper and he made no mistake, cooly burying his shot in the bottom corner to the relief of everyone.

What a great team effort. Five games, four victories, one draw, seven goals for and zero against saw the Drifters lift the trophy.

They would like to thank the referees, organisers and the FA for making it such an enjoyable event and everybody ended the day sharing a drink in the bar.