Wisbech Town Walking Football Club welcomed Sleaford Academicals Walking Football Club to Fenland Stadium on for a series of 20-minute friendly games for their over-50s and over-60s teams.

Wisbech Standard: Wisbech Town Walking Football Club welcomed Sleaford Academicals Walking Football Club to Fenland Stadium. Picture; GARY COMPTONWisbech Town Walking Football Club welcomed Sleaford Academicals Walking Football Club to Fenland Stadium. Picture; GARY COMPTON (Image: Archant)

Although only formed a year ago Sleaford brought a fine bunch of players to the stadium and it was a pleasure to meet and play against them.

The first match pitted the over-60s of both sides together, and a tight contest ended in a 2-2 draw, John Knight levelling matters with a brace after Wisbech had gone two down.

The two over-50s teams matched up next with the visitors again taking a two-goal lead. A clever passing move saw new Wisbech player Kevan Burton grab one back, but time ran out for the home side and it finished 2-1 to Sleaford.

The two over-60s sides then met again as the wind (and the Wisbech veterans) began to blow harder and this time the Fenmen took a 4-0 beating.

In the final match, Wisbech over-50s rejigged their formation and coped better with the impressive passing play of Sleaford.

Wayne Beasant stood solid in defence whilst Warren Clark fired in two goals, followed by a close poke home by Chris Howard and finally Wayne bagging one himself for a fine 4-2 victory as the skies began to open.

The clubhouse was the next stop for everyone, with Mandy Boughen, Club Steward serving up her signature sausage and chips plus a surprise bowl of Bolognese. All devoured with pleasure by both teams on what had been something of a chilly morning on the field.

Jonny Pearce in his first excursion into walking football refereeing did a great job, controlling the action with authority, ably assisted by Brian Warner on the line.

All agreed it had been an enjoyable sporting and social occasion and the teams could meet again soon when Wisbech Town Walking Football hosts its own tournament on May 12 at the Fenland Stadium, into which Sleaford have entered along with a dozen or so other teams from across the region.

Wisbech has several Walking Football sessions throughout the week at various venues, indoors and outdoors. Ask around and get involved! Most sessions are open to all ages and abilities and there is further chance to take part in local friendlies and regional tournaments.