🏆 WINCHESTER THROUGH TO THE NATIONAL FINALS! 🏆

Winchester Walking Football Club’s Over-65s have qualified for the Walking Football Association National Cup Finals in Nottingham following a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Plymouth Argyle Community.

The South West Regional Final was a closely contested match, played in hot conditions that required regular drinks breaks.

Plymouth thought they had taken an early lead during a tight first half, but the goal was disallowed for a running offence. At the other end, Winchester goalkeeper Rob Nichols produced several fine saves to keep the scores level.

Shortly after the first drinks break, Winchester took the lead. Chris Haynes cut in from the right and struck a powerful shot beyond the Plymouth goalkeeper to give his side a 1–0 advantage.

Plymouth began the second half strongly, although Winchester continued to look dangerous on the break. The visitors eventually drew level with a goal that carried a touch of fortune, as a shot struck the post before rebounding into the net off the Winchester goalkeeper.

Winchester were not deterred and gradually began to gain the upper hand. Andy Bramley went close on several occasions as the pressure began to build.

The decisive moment arrived when a Plymouth player was shown a red card for a foul on Winchester's Steve Nash who was through on goal. Club leading scorer Barry Poffley stepped forward and calmly converted the resulting penalty to restore Winchester’s lead.

With the extra player, Winchester controlled the closing stages, keeping possession for long periods and preventing Plymouth from finding a way back into the match.

The final whistle confirmed an excellent 2–1 victory against a strong and well-organised Plymouth Argyle Community side — and secured Winchester’s place at the National Finals in Nottingham.

A huge congratulations to all the players and everyone involved in this memorable victory.

Winchester squad:

Andy Bramley, Ian Dowson, Chris Haynes, David Kirkby, Steve Nash, Rob Nichols (GK), Barry Poffley, Paul Reade, Eugene Wills. 

Winchester Walking Football Club would also like to thank our valued club sponsor, Winchester Mobility, for their continued support.

⚽ Winchester Walking Football 2–1 Plymouth Argyle Community🏆 Next stop: the National Finals in Nottingham!

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