The 2026 Greater Manchester Walking Football League (GMWFL) season kicked off for the over 60’s Stripes on 12th March in typical Heywood weather, freezing
The anticipation of the opening fixture for the Relics Stripes against old rivals Corinthians didn’t do much to provide a warm confident glow from the Relics, who knew that Corinthians games were always tough, and this game wasn’t any different. Goalkeeper Keith G was soon getting warmed up by the Corinthian attack but matched everything thrown at him. Relics too had their chances but couldn’t beat the Corinthians keeper. So, Final score a hard played draw 0-0
The Relics Whites also drew their first game 1-1 v North Manchester. Setting up the long awaited derby of Relics Whites v Relics Stripes.
A close encounter with both teams having periods of possession with not many chances. the Stripes took the first advantage with Stripes full back Mark Thomas allowed to move down the left wing by the Whites, his shot beat Eddie at his near post to put the Stripes 1-0 up
The Relics Whites struggled to get back into the game and it finished 1-0 to the Stripes.
Stripes influential striker Andy Richardson punched the air as the final whistle went shouting a loud “yes” claiming the bragging rights for the Stripes..
It was a short break before the third game on the Relics schedule, v Panthers, but the Relics didn’t seem to let the cold bother them and came sharp. Ken had a breakaway chance that was saved, Mark E had two good chances that were saved. Ken had another chance which was wide, then Mark E had another shot saved. Relics were on top but couldn’t break the deadlock. Final Score 0-0
Next up for the Stripes were Rochdale Strollers, so another tough game and another steady performance from the Stripes restricting Rochdale to a few chances, mainly going high and wide. relics had a good chance after a good passing interchange between Andy Richardson and Steve M but the final shot was saved. final Score 0-0.
Final game for the Stripes was Moston. The Stripes had been solid all day restricting the opposition to only a few chances while playing some good possession throughout. Same again against Moston, a few chances for the Stripes from Mark E, Mark T, Ken, and Andy R, while restricting Moston to just a couple of efforts. Final Score 0-0.
So, an unbeaten day for the Stripes which should fill them full of confidence for the next match day.
Stripes; Keith Gillespie (GK), Mark T, Mark E, Andy Rich, Steve H, Steve M, Ken B, Iain Dawson.
Bury Relics 