Some of the action – and all of the music – was broadcast by Richie Sparks of BIG fm, who also conducted a live interview with Peter Nicholas.
The match began with a minutes silence in respect of the recent events and outcomes in the Barcelona area; and an amazing rendition of Nessun Dorma by Britain’s Got Talent entrant, Nikki G, who stunned the crowd with her beautiful singing. It ended with the score line: Tasha’s XI 2, Police & Public Services XI – which included players from the Veterans Football Team of Rojales Sports Club – 5.
However, after the match one of the organiser’s (who speaks no Spanish!) spoke with the referee, Toni Marquee Diaz (who speaks no English!) about the 2-5 result. It was, admittedly a confusing conversation, but the organiser concerned is pretty sure that Toni said, “I made mistakes in allowing three of the Police goals … a draw of 2-2 would be correct and would definitely better reflect the game!”
Tasha’s XI goal-scorers, Jimmy Tarquin-Bolds and Mathew Steer, each spotted the opposition goal-keeper too far off his line and knocked in almost identical lobs from a good 40 yards out!
Former Arsenal and Welsh International, who coached Tasha’s 33-strong Squad said, “Tasha’s boys were fantastic and it was a pleasure to coach them. They had had only one previous training session together. With more time, I could certainly fashion a formidable team from the available talent.”
Team Captain, Gary Thorley added, “The match was played in a great spirit of camaraderie; the Spanish team were both friendly and enthusiastic. They are to be congratulated on their participation and their win. I think every player on the pitch enjoyed playing for Tasha!”
The three day trip to Cuenca, donated by David’s Coaches S.L., together with the anonymously added €100, was won by Mr Kevin Kennedy, known to many locals for his Quiz Nights & Music Presentations. He bought his winning programme at a separate fund-raiser for Tasha, which was hosted by The Bar Stop on La Marina Urbanisation.
The San Fulgencio Town Hall played a huge part in facilitating this event. In particular, La Marina Urbanisation’s Councillor Paulino Herrero’s assistance was greatly appreciated. “…and the co-operation and assistance afforded by the groundsman, Lorenzo, was priceless!” added one of the organising team, “…furthermore, Lorenzo’s son, Julian, actually took a stint in goal for Tasha’s side!”
Mrs Ellen Scammell of M.U.N.A. has suggested that a photo album of the event be compiled and given to Tasha as a memento of the day. So, anyone with suitable-quality photographs is, therefore, asked to send them to: tom.whitmore@outlook.es
The total funds raised by the match includes €1,000 from The Hope and Christian Fellowship group of La Marina, who will present the money after their Service on Sunday 3rd September. Tasha’s dad, Andy Lynch added, “Tasha was not well enough to go, really, but she was there for around 45 minutes.
That took a lot out of her, but she had insisted that I take her. She wanted to see some of the people that help her enjoying themselves. I’ll probably be in trouble with her medical team, but Tasha is a very determined young woman, thankfully. Our family are so grateful to everyone who helps Tasha!”
(https://www.gofundme.com/w48en-tashas-mitochondrial-treatment)
