October 25th 2023.
Three was definitely the magic number for the Relics over 60’s stripes on match day two of the Autumn 2023 season of the Greater Manchester Walking Football League (GMWFL). At the start of the day the Relics sat second in the division, five points behind leaders Ribble Valley.
A superb effort on the day from all the team: Gaz (GK), Ian McK (c), Andy Rich, Steve Hassall, Iain Dawson, Nev Kitchen, Ken Bond, and Mike Bartram, not forgetting joint managers Keith S and Sir Pat doing an excellent job from the touchline: resulted in the Relics climbing to second spot, level on points with Ribble Valley but second place on goal difference.
Relics 1 – 0 Wakefield
Wakefield games are always tough and close but the Relics started well with a goal from Andy Rich in the first half. Second half and Wakefield were playing well with the Relics giving away a few fouls which resulted in a penalty to Wakefield. The Wakefield striker struck his shot hard and low to Gaz’s left, but Gaz was equal to it, getting down to his left to pull off a great save.
Relics 1 – 0 Bolton Arena
Relics were on top from the start playing most of the game in Bolton’s half and Gaz not having much action to deal with. Mike Bartram secured the three points with a mazy dribble on the edge of the Bolton goal area. I think he beat the entire Bolton team two or three times before slotting the ball home for the only goal of the game.
Ribble Valley 0 – 1 Relics
Last game of the day was against top of the table Ribble Valley, Relics needed a win to keep in touch at the top. This was one of the best relics performances I have seen for a while. Plenty of talking, movement off the ball, and marking the Ribble players. It was still a tough game.
At half time it was 0 – 0 with all to play for. Relics secured the points from a penalty following four offences from Ribble Valley. A firmly struck spot kick from Ian McKinnon gave the Ribble keeper no chance and secured the points for the Relics.
All the GMWFL Autumn 2023 Results and Fixtures are here
Bury Relics 