Another sunny Algarvian morning saw Quarteirense Walking Football Club arrive at Browns Sports Resort for the annual two-day tournament. With squads in the 65+, 60+, and 50+ categories, spirits were high and hopes were set on bringing home silverware.
By Wayne Varney
65+ Squad – Rock-Solid at the Back
Managed by Will K, the 65+ side opened the competition. Injury ruled out goalkeeper Harry, but dependable Bill D stepped in to join a strong defence of Billy C, Phil C, and Tom L. That back line proved near-impenetrable, keeping four consecutive clean sheets in the group stage.
After two goalless draws, Jeff G produced a fine strike to seal a crucial 1–0 win and send the team through to a tense quarter-final with local rivals Farense FC. Midfielders Tim C and Manuel C dominated play and Jeff G struck twice to put them through to the semis against Birmingham.
Trailing 1–0 at half-time, tactical tweaks lifted the tempo and Jeff G looked to have equalised, only for the referee to disallow the goal for being struck inside the box. The side were left disappointed but proud, finishing fourth overall as Birmingham went on to win the trophy.
Managed by Will K, the 65+ side opened the competition. Injury ruled out goalkeeper Harry, but dependable Bill D stepped in to join a strong defence of Billy C, Phil C, and Tom L. That back line proved near-impenetrable, keeping four consecutive clean sheets in the group stage
After two goalless draws, Jeff G produced a fine strike to seal a crucial 1–0 win and send the team through to a tense quarter-final with local rivals Farense FC. Midfielders Tim C and Manuel C dominated play and Jeff G struck twice to put them through to the semis against Birmingham.
Trailing 1–0 at half-time, tactical tweaks lifted the tempo and Jeff G looked to have equalised, only for the referee to disallow the goal for being struck inside the box. The side were left disappointed but proud, finishing fourth overall as Birmingham went on to win the trophy.
60+ Squad – International Flair and a Trophy Earned
The 60+ squad, led by new manager Jon H, brought a touch of international flavour.
Pre-tournament injuries to Big Nick B and Piotr “The Polish Wall” hit hard, and another to Craig in the opening 0–0 draw with Bangor forced versatile John C into action.
Backed by veteran keeper Eric P and defenders Mike B and John C, the team responded superbly—winning their next three games, scoring five and conceding none.
Forwards Rod F and Ian S were a constant threat, with Carlos “The Bull” driving the midfield.
A thunderous Mick B strike earned a 1–0 quarter-final win over Birmingham Allstars, before a fierce 0–0 semi with Ayr United went to penalties. Ayr edged it and later lifted the trophy, but Quarteirense showed true fight.
In the 3rd/4th playoff, Mike B grabbed the winner against Algarve rivals East Algarve, securing silverware. A proud Jon H thanked the club for their faith, praising his squad’s teamwork and spirit.
50+ Squad – Plate Champions After Penalty Drama
The 50+ squad, led by Alan R, faced challenges before a ball was kicked. Clearance for key man “Little” Steve S arrived just in time for him to fly in and join the squad.
Placed in the toughest group, they began with a 1–1 draw (goal by Andy W) and a 0–0 stalemate before a disappointing loss to eventual champions Forfar. That meant only a win against Copenhagen Celtic would do—and they delivered. Goals from Billy Q and Little Steve secured a 2–1 victory and a Plate semi-final spot. Against Hurst Pretenders, Andy W finished a slick move for another 1–0 win, with captain Duncan S commanding the defence and substitutes Alan F and Phil M making key tackles to protect the clean sheet.
The Plate Final brought a familiar challenge, Billericay, led by Gary T. After a tight first half, Billy Q’s relentless pressing forced an error and he coolly slotted home for the lead. A late equaliser meant penalties. Andy W and Billy Q converted confidently before keeper Stuart P, using every trick to distract the taker, made a superb save to win the shootout. Jubilant celebrations followed as the 50+ squad lifted the Plate Trophy—mission accomplished.
The 50+ squad, led by Alan R, faced challenges before a ball was kicked. Clearance for key man “Little” Steve S arrived just in time for him to fly in and join the squad.
Placed in the toughest group, they began with a 1–1 draw (goal by Andy W) and a 0–0 stalemate before a disappointing loss to eventual champions Forfar. That meant only a win against Copenhagen Celtic would do—and they delivered. Goals from Billy Q and Little Steve secured a 2–1 victory and a Plate semi-final spot. Against Hurst Pretenders, Andy W finished a slick move for another 1–0 win, with captain Duncan S commanding the defence and substitutes Alan F and Phil M making key tackles to protect the clean sheet.
The Plate Final brought a familiar challenge, Billericay, led by Gary T. After a tight first half, Billy Q’s relentless pressing forced an error and he coolly slotted home for the lead. A late equaliser meant penalties. Andy W and Billy Q converted confidently before keeper Stuart P, using every trick to distract the taker, made a superb save to win the shootout. Jubilant celebrations followed as the 50+ squad lifted the Plate Trophy—mission accomplished.
Club Pride and Community Spirit
Across all three age groups, QWFC displayed exceptional teamwork, discipline, and camaraderie, achieving their goal of lifting silverware while representing the club with pride. Thanks go to all managers, coaches, and supporters for their dedication, and to the Allstar players who trained with the squads in preparation. A special mention to Ron B, Kevin N, and Mick M, who stepped in to play for Calne Town, ensuring their side could remain in the tournament—a true act of sportsmanship. It was a weekend full of football, friendship, and pride for Quarteirense Walking Football Club – showing once again that passion and teamwork know no age limits.
QWFC – Playing with pride, passion, and friendship!