By Isle of Wight Observer
Shanklin FC saw the return of a six-a-side football tournament after a five-year break, with more than 200 players playing for 27 teams. There were three mainland sides, which included Brentwood Athletic, from Essex, with respected Island footballer, Joe Craig, involved with them, gracefully going out in the quarter-final. Fulcrum Athletic, from Fareham, reached the semi-final losing to eventual winners Shanklin.
Shanklin A, led by club captain, Peter Wilson, won the competition after beating Whitecroft & Barton 2-1 in the final. The match-winning goal was scored by Nicky Vyse, following Tom Ashley’s early strike. The trophy was collected by Frank Stuber.
Refs Dwayne Alford, Neil Stephenson and Ian Acheson (who calculated he officiated almost thirty 12-minute matches on the day), thanked volunteers for the preparation of the pitches, provision of a barbecue and refreshments.
Peter Wilson added: “It was great to finally bring the Shanklin six-a-side tournament back to life following Covid, in what used to be the regular season-opener for most clubs. The matches were played in the right spirit throughout with many different teams taking part. I’d like to thank all the volunteers behind the scenes who made it happen, but, more importantly, the referees of the day – Ian Acheson (Passa), Dwayne Alford and also Neil Stephenson who volunteered at the last minute.
“We look forward to hosting it again next year.”