A deserved 3-0 victory for England Veterans Over 55’s against a very game Fitness Industry XI in bitterly cold conditions at Pontefract Collieries FC on Sunday 4th January.

The breakthrough arrived on 20 minutes and it was worth the wait. Stafford Browne unleashed a thunderous strike that left the goalkeeper with no chance, setting the tone for England’s control of the contest.

England continued to dictate possession after the break and their patience was rewarded when Alun Wood doubled the advantage on 55 minutes. The result was effectively sealed on 68 minutes as Richard Preston added a third, smashing home to cap a dominant second-half performance.

While the scoreline reflected England’s quality and experience, credit must go to the Fitness Industry XI for their commitment and resilience throughout, testing England whenever opportunities arose.

Stafford Browne was awarded Man of the Match for England and Kieron Robinson for the Fitness Industry. Well done gentlemen.

Special thanks to Pontefract Collieries FC for their superb hospitality and excellent venue, which helped make the fixture a success despite the freezing weather.

Thank you also to all who gave so generously in support of Cancer Research UK and Prostate Cancer UK.

Photos: The 55’s squad. Player/Manager John Price presents Dave Gipp with his Over 55’s representative Cap and presents Goalkeeper Darren Steadman with his prestigious Bronze Cap, commemorating 25 appearances for England Veterans. Congratulations both.

Photo: Fitness Industry Legends XI