Four intrepid Thistles took part in the trip to Jersey from the 6th to 8th September 2024. The original numbers should have been 5, but Martin Petty reported in sick after a bad reaction to an inoculation. Normally, five players would not be a viable number, but, after having these sorts numbers in my early days of Thistles, I know full well that these can be some of the best trips. The other players were the Dunbars and Paul Bateson who organised a very good experience. Paul Bateson, with his links to England LX had a group of players, some of which were registered with Thistles, to play on the Saturday match against Jersey and Jersey players to play on the Sunday against LX.
The first game against Jersey was potentially the hardest, as the average age was much below our own, however, after being hammered for 15 minutes or so and going down three goals, we re-arranged ourselves and more than gave them a game. Dave Lancaster and myself went up front and he scored two goals and I scored one. With good LX players in midfield, we could have got more with luck. Final score 5-3 to Jersey. The game on Sunday was played with some Jersey volunteers, but we never really got fully into the game against LX. Paul Bateson came closest to getting goals and had some near misses, I too had one close miss from a short corner pass flicked, which was saved on the line at knee height. The game was played in torrential rain and wind, so was extremely difficult to play accurately, particularly after a very late curry with the LX. Final score 3-nil
It's always a quandary if we should take players to tournaments with low numbers, but my view is, when committed, then you don't let people down. Not only that, but in the past having to ask for helpers is almost an invitation to join our club and many have. All the English midlands players became members after Swanse one year and others from Lakes tours etc. With our friendly dispositions and whisky at the interval, and sometimes into the night, players feel truly welcomed. Oh yes, and someone advertised the fact that there would be whisky for those who volunteered, so Paul Bateson made sure that this happened.
A really enjoyable tournament played in a very 'fun' spirit. Thanks to Paul again for his perfect admin.
