Bens football veterans reignite old flame

The veterans of Old Bens once again proved that they are the masters of over-40 football as they defended the Thilak Peiris challenge trophy by beating Kurnegalle Veterans 3-1 in the final played at St. Benedict's ground last weekend.

It marked the third time that Old Bens have won this trophy.

In 2010 they won under the captaincy of Athula Perera and again in 2014 under the leadership of Sisira Perera.

Nearly one thousand spectators mostly elders who were former soccerites and even the women folk witnessed a wonderful game by cheering their respective sides.

The enthusiasm and crowd patronage surpassed the numbers and interest found in certain Champions League and FA Cup matches.

The game got off to a good start and veterans from both sides recollected their young age talent by producing some entertaining football.

Some of them even matched the youngsters who play present club rugby.

Their calculated passes, attacking football and above all their sportiness were examples for the present youngsters.

Both teams failed to find the net in the first half as the defenders and goal keepers did spoil the attempts of the forwards of the two sides. However in the second half Old Bens showed their class by sending long passes and the two forwards Romesh Wallace and skipper Donald Fernando scored three quick goals during the last 15 minutes to seal the victory for their side.

Romesh Wallace of Old Bens was awarded the most valuable player and his team mate T. Johnson got the best goal keeper's award.

The over 40 soccer tournament was organized by Sri Lanka Soccer Masters Association for the seventh successive year and more than 40 clubs from all over from the island participated in the championship.