Aspatria have introduced their Over 35s/Veterans side to the Bower Park faithful.
Their clash with a similar vintage Novos XV proved an entertaining curtain raiser to the League game between the two sides.
Novo’s had expressed an intention at the away game in October of bringing a Veterans side over for the return so Aspatria put a team together.
First team half-back Jack Clegg said: “We were delighted to welcome them to a windswept Bower Park.
“The game was played in a wonderful spirit and refereed by former Black Reds player, and now Cumbria Referee Society member, Wiremu Comp.
“The Black Reds were able to name a squad filled with experience, guile and legend status.
“In the pack there were great performances from the likes of David Bowyer, Chris Tweddle and David Humes whilst the star studied backline included names such as Scott, Dobie, Davidson and Wood to name but a few.
“The stand out back was Walter Cloete who crashed over for four tries which suggests he may now just be coming in to his prime.
“Both sides did well to play two 30 minutes in the conditions they faced and entertained a large and appreciative crowd.
“It was noted that several potential Vet’s such as Spires and Bateson arrived “just” too late to make kick-off but will hopefully be able to make their Vets debuts in later games.
“Even that was more effort shown than a certain S. Hanley who never left the sponsor’s bar!”
The Aspatria squad was put together by Mel Hanley and club coach Mike Scott and it is hoped this may become a regular date in the diary for the Vets.
Clegg added: “The day went on long into the night in the sponsors lounge with tales and songs sung until the end.”
