We have put on this tournament annually in support of good causes and mainly as a result of the untimely death of our former President, Derek Stark, who died as a result of a heart attack. This year was also particularly pertinent to us as the result of the death of a young lady, Jenny Kerwood, whilst playing football locally. Jenny was known personally to a number of the clubs and officials.
The tournament was split into two separate competitions – the men’s tournament in the morning followed by the women’s tournament in the afternoon.
The recipients of all the money raised during the day and from sponsorship were two very worthy causes, namely the British Heart Foundation and Cardiac Risk in the Young.
On a bright Sunday morning at the Selex Sports & Leisure Club, Basildon, the men’s tournament saw seven sides competing.
Although early in the season for them, they put in a competitive effort and the only thing that was really lacking was goal!
Having completed the group stages, the first semi-final saw The Mall beat Laindon B 1-0; and the second semi-final saw the Beechwood team run out 7-6 winners on penalties after a 0-0 draw.
The final was a close encounter but Beechwood were worthy 2-1 winners.
Onto the afternoon which saw a strong women’s competition in both groups.
The forwards were more clinical in front of goal and as a consequence there was plenty of goalmouth action, which was widely enjoyed by the support on the day.
The first semi-final saw West Ham United play out an entertaining 0-0 draw with C&K Ladies Basildon, with West Ham winning 3-1 by the dreaded penalty shoot out.
The other semi-final saw Tottenham run out comfortable 3-0 winners against Witham.
The final saw an entertaining game with plenty of chances at either end.
However, West Ham eventually ran out 2-0 winners as a result of that extra bit of pace and more clinical finishing.
Throughout the day a raffle and sale of pin badges increased the money raised in addition to the sponsorship and entry fees. Having now totalled all the money we are very pleased to be able to donate £750 to both charities and am sure you will make excellent use of it in all the hard work CRY carries out for young people.
Paul Clarke
Vice President, Basildon Referees Society
