As usual, the sun shone gloriously for the annual Epsom and Ewell District 5-a-Side football competition held at Nescot on Sunday 23 May 2004. We fielded two teams: Under 12s (see picture) and Under 15s both with two substitutes.
The event started with an explanation of the rules; which are far from the 11-a-side version. For example, only the goalie’s allowed inside the box (which is semi-circular) and goal kicks, throw-ons and corners are taken with an under-arm throw.We started very strongly with both teams winning their first games. Patrick scored the first goal in the U12s match against 8th/14th Epsom in which Stoneleigh 3rd dominated the game. There was only one worrying moment in the second half when we broached one of these obscure rules and faced a free kick very close to the goal. Luckily the lads made a strong wall and we lived to record a 1-0 victory - manager Dave Hillyer was delighted.
The U15s played 1st Ewell Court and the man of the match was clearly Andy who made both goals and even had a third disallowed: resulting in a 2-0 win. Andy was supported by Jeff, Matt, George, Paul, Sam and Jack, with Dave Bowles as manager.Our high initial hopes gradually faded, however, as both teams lost the next two games and the final humiliation came when the tannoy announced that 3rd Stoneleigh “go home”.
Nonetheless, both teams had some great matches, often only very close losses and a thoroughly good time.