Disqualification automatically guaranteed the Shambles a 3-0 win and much needed points.
However the friendly arranged to keep the players in top physical condition was going to be taken seriously.

With Captain Graham absent due to 'scouting duties' at Villa the important role fell to inform Ian.

Shambles keeper Darren, tempted away to a new side next season by the new team called Westside, was opted to play in goal for his  potential employers. Purely a decision to balance numbers, nothing tactical intended.

Playing on their favoured pitch in the usual yellow and blue strip, the Shambles were immediately in danger of conceding an early goal! Westlife's players (Shane, Bryan, Nicky, Kian, Mark and Darren - the stand in keeper) pushed forward and gained vital territory in front of the Shambles area. We were stood in a world of our own and  were all relieved when the ref pulled play back to the center as he had not yet blown the whistle for the start of the game! Was this to be the way of the opposition for the next 20 minuites?

The game then started with a whistle, the ref didn't want to look like a fool again. Shambles took the initiative with precise one touch football. The new side struggling to find shape under pressure. It was written in the stars that tonight was going to be our night. Craig, Ade and Flash linked together like a well oiled chain to put the Shambles in front.

The Shambles Captain for the evening was playing in goal. His side pressed forward, passing, creating opportunities and unfortunate not to have incresed the lead when, an interception lead to another Westlife break. Shambles defender Chris not to be phased by the onslaught played his 'trade-mark' back pass... Captain Keeper couldn't read his move in time and yet again the ball rolled dangerously towards an open goal having passed through his unknowing ankles. Lighting reflexes and
pace close to that of Flash (our number 1 forward) enabled the keeper to knock the ball off the goal line from the outside of the post. Enbarrasement saved. Against all odds it remained 1-0 to the Shambles.

Nothing then could prevent the Shambles outfield players from pushing forward into attacking positions. It is rare for a reporter to speak of the Shambles about their continued domination of a game, and I am almost lost for words. This pressure ensured further goals in the first half. An unbelieveable score line of 5-0 at half time. The pick of the goals an outstanding strike from halfway by Craig. Right-footed with pace and bend into Darrens left hand post.  Darren used to this sort of score line by now!

Westlife played with determination and at times looked like breaking the Shambles mid-field down (sorry lads) but every time found the path closed by Keith. He played a cool defensive role, blocking shots, intercepting passes, holding the ball and distributing effectively to his team mates. Finally, and against the run of play,a long range shot from the Westlife forward squeezed the ball in between the Captains finger tips and his right hand post.  A consilation goal, but a fine strike and well deserved.

The Shambles put together some wonderful football, lay offs, back-heels and accurate finishing. Chris played well too. Dave (Flash) made the most of his little dink to slide the ball home past the helpless keeper. A hatrick for Ade, 5 for Craig.Yes 5...  even though Dave tried to claim later in the bar that he himself had scored 4! It just didn't add up. Oh, and Chris scored too. However, as it was from the left hand side, the Captain keeper would normally have finished that one and in more style had he been in his regular position!

Darren assumed his usual position of last man back, bravely putting himself into the line of fire and as usual pulled off some fine saves. The final score line not a reflection of his ability in any way.

The final score of 11-1 is flattering. Probably deserved, but next season will be a different story, the Westlife team displayed a courage and team spirit that will stand them in good stead. Good luck next season.

Talk in the bar varied. Kian was reported to say that the shambles were 'welcome to keep Darren'. Darren commented that the game had 'given a whole new meaning to Shambles' but was 'pleased with not conceding on the Shambles 3-0 victory, always nice to keep a clean sheet'

Well done to all Shambles players but glory is short lived. Next week more points are required to continue our upward thrust into mid table.