Stoke 1-1

Sorry about the delay with this report pf our 100 Club away trip to Stoke and last of the season, holidays and life seemed to put it at the back of my mind and of course I had to wait for Dave Walton to set up his tax account in the Cayman Islands to stash his considerable winnings he has accumulated over the seasons way trips.

Still it was a nice day when we met at Ewood and even nicer as we were travelling in style to Stoke on a huge luxury double decker coach. Most of us were upstairs safe in the knowledge that Jimmy was downstairs in the co-pilot seat guiding the driver. A great deal was riding on the game as we were skirting the relegation zone and it was a must not lose situation. Michael O’Neil had considered leaving the goal keeper out all together as he knew the nets were safe while Gallagher was up front for Stoke but he had to have an air of caution that he might somehow by a miracle score.

We had a great lunch at the Wilbraham Arms at Alsager and the landlord had ordered in a few bottles of Bennie. On to the game and we took our seats in the cold stand, why is it always cold at Stoke? and enjoyed a close game and a cracker by Forshaw put us ahead after 21 minutes. Stoke were out of it and Gallagher contrived to miss a couple of chances surprisingly and was taken off at half time. A different Stoke came out for the second half and put us under a lot of pressure that caused the unfortunate Ribeiro to score an own goal. 1-1 but the lads battled hard and that was the final score. We had the delight of seeing our ex player Ash Philips sent off near the end.

 

Guess the gate: 22718: Dave Walton 22701: Steve Walsh 22750: M Pickup 22768. First Scorer + Final result 6 winners winning £59.50 in total.

Takings £195.00: Payouts £89:50: Profit £105.50