A 2-2 draw for England Veterans’ Over 70’s on Wednesday 5th November against a combined Bristol and Gloucester Over 65’s side in Leicestershire

England created a myriad of chances from the crossing of Dave York and the incisive passing of Tony Drinkell but none taken. Efforts from Steve Mole, Bill Darton, York and Drinkell all went close until eventually on 25 minutes Dennis Johnson struck a gem – arrowed to the top corner from twenty five yards to give England the lead.

1-0 and a raft of substitutions for England at half time – all vying for a starting place against Wales later in the month.

The second England goal came after great work down the right from Terry Prickett with a great cut back to the on rushing John Todd – calmly placing it in the ‘onion bag’.

England eased off and Bristol pulled one back when a speculative effort from outside the box trickled and slipped from the keeper’s grasp into the net.

With minutes remaining, Bristol gained a corner. A melee ensued and an appeal for a penalty was finally upheld and neatly put away for the equaliser.

No time for an England winner and it unfortunately felt like a loss – some great play within the England team but chances need to be taken when created. Well done to Bristol and Gloucester.

Our thanks to the match officials and to Lutterworth Athletic FC for hosting the game.