That’s an England win for the ages!

By Freddie George

WE DID IT: England celebrate with their trophy

AS THE saying goes in football, if you’re good enough then you’re old enough ¬– but these footballers showed you’re never too senior for a cup final.

England Over-70s beat Wales Over-70s 3-0 at St George’s Park on Thursday afternoon to life the inaugural NHS Challenge Trophy.

The cup showcases and reflects on the links between football, physical exercise, and many England’s John Shannon Jnr, aged 79, took part in the game in front of his watching father, John Shannon Snr, aged 104.

The Three Lions won the game, refereed by former Premier League whistler Dermot Gallagher, through goals from Jim Ellis and a Rob Beel double.

Before the game, England player-manager Ken Pollock said: “The recent pandemic has shown the importance of physical fitness, as statistically exercise has been a preventative and curative agent for older people. To mark this, we have called the cup The NHS Challenge Trophy, to reflect our gratitude for their work over the last 18 months.”

Holly Murdoch, General Manager at St. George’s Park, added: “To welcome the first ever over 70s NHS Challenge Trophy is a real honour and another moment that we are incredibly proud of.

“We all know the important role that football can play in people’s lives, and we hope this inspires the older generation to dust off their boots and get playing football again.”