Tony Downes Memorial Match

Stretford Paddock faced a tough challenge in the annual Tony Downes memorial match on Saturday (July 6), falling to Droylsden 5-0 at the Butcher’s Arms.

The first half was tightly contested and ended goalless, showcasing a strong defensive effort from Stretford Paddock and a standout performance from Paddock’s keeper, Martin. With Paddock’s only opportunity of the game coming through a tricky piece of play down the right wing from Ronaldo, cutback to Jainero who saw his shot well saved.

Droylsden came out strong in the second half, with their big burling striker breaking the deadlock just five minutes after the restart.

Despite Paddock’s best efforts, Droylsden doubled their lead just before the 70-minute mark, with their dangerous winger scoring from close range. The same player then quickly added his second and Droylsden’s third goal, calmly finishing past an advancing Martin.

Paddock were struggling to cope with the constant wave of pressure and eventually the pressure told. Droyslden then increased the lead to four with just ten minutes remaining, and another stoppage time strike from the home side sealed the result.

While the match was a tough one for Stretford Paddock, the primary focus was on honoring Droylsden guardsman Tony Downes, who was tragically killed in Afghanistan in 2007 at the age of 20.

Tony is remembered locally with a street, a building, and this memorial match trophy, which was presented to Droylsden at full-time.

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