The nation was basking in the glory of England’s World Cup win when a teenage Paul Sturgeon kicked off his soccer career with Battyeford.
Now, at the age of 67, Paul is preparing to hang up his boots after 50 seasons in the game.
And he hopes to go out on a high after playing the full 90 minutes in his team Sovereign Sports’ 5-4 win over Grimescar in the Huddersfield Works League.
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Paul was not alone among the “golden oldies” in the Sovereign line-up; fellow defender Micky Pollock is a mere 56, while five others in the team won’t see 40 again.
The team finishes its campaign on Saturday against Cask but Paul won’t be turning out; he’ll restrict his duties to the coaching touchline.
“I’ve played a handful of games from the sub’s bench this time but wanted to get in a full 90 minutes in my 50th year in adult football.
“It was great that so many of us in the team have played together for many years and can still enjoy the football.
“The reason I have carried on is that I enjoy the friendship and even if Sovereign doesn’t continue beyond this season, we will try and play a few friendly games as a veterans side.
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“It seems a long time ago that I turned out for Battyyeford when I had just turned 17, just after England won the cup at Wembley.
“I’ve always kept fit and last night, Micky and I were playing five a side together.
“Some of the younger lads call as The Angry Men and compare us to Waldorf and Statler from The Muppets.”
Paul runs the Sovereign Sports shop in Westbourne Road, Marsh.
