Winchester Over-65s Make Their Mark at National Finals

Winchester Walking Football’s over-65 squad celebrated a club milestone on Sunday 6 September 2026, competing at the Walking Football Association National Finals for the first time.

Having earned their place with three closely fought qualifying victories over Dexters (Poole), Eastleigh and Plymouth, the squad travelled to Nottingham to represent the South-West (South) region. There was understandable excitement, mixed with a little apprehension, as the players prepared to face fellow regional winners from across the country.

Following Godalming’s withdrawal, the competition changed to a seven-team round-robin league, with each side playing six matches of 18 minutes.

Winchester proved competitive throughout, recording two wins, two draws and two defeats:

• Solihull: lost 2–1

• Blackburn: won 1–0

• Northwich: won 1–0

• Wakefield: lost 2–0

• Bexley: drew 0–0

• Swindon: drew 1–1

The two clean-sheet victories and a goalless draw against defending champions Bexley were particular highlights. Winchester finished fifth with eight points, just four behind Bexley, who successfully retained their national title.

Beyond the results, the experience offered plenty of encouragement. Winchester showed they could compete at national level and returned home determined to earn another opportunity next season.

Reaching the Finals was an achievement in itself. Coming away knowing the team belonged there made the occasion all the more rewarding.

Finals squad: Andy Bramley, Ian Dowson, Chris Haynes, David Kirkby, Steve Nash, Rob Nicholls, Barry Poffley and Paul Wiseman.

Goalscorers: Ian Dowson, Chris Haynes, Barry Poffley and Paul Wiseman — one goal each.

Credit also goes to Paul Reade and Eugene Wills, who helped the team qualify but were unavailable for the Finals.

As always, grateful thanks to our sponsors at Winchester Mobility whose support is a major contribution to the club's success on the pitch