Today would be a rare day when we were without a kit clash as the Eagles lined up in ever intimidating purple paying tribute to their number one ticket holder, the purple Tellytubby, Tinky Wink.
After the arduous task of marking the lines and putting up the nets; the warm up began with WAG Laurie "soon to be" Dennis, pictured right, running them through their paces. She can be seen here showing them the basics, like where to kick the ball. It was a novel approach, but would it net any benefits?
With a season full of defeats, and nothing to loose the leadership group decided to mix things up. Hendy, the Golden Croc winner since records were kept, would line up at left back and Sparky Coulter would partner Ralpha up front in search of his first AC goal.
Troops were light on the ground with only two on the bench and a 5% fit Dennis watching on, hoping not to be called upon.
The game began and it didn't really inspire the gaggle of WAG's on hand as they gossiped about shopping, weddings and babies whilst their respective partners flexed their football muscle in a quest for victory.
Ten minutes in and finally a distraction big enough to grab the WAG's attention. Unfortunately for AC it would be an injury to Ralpha's calf and the ten minute stint would mark the end of his career as he hobbled off with Karen's parting words echoing in his ears "you know this is against my wishes". One senses a big case of "I told you so" upon arrival home.
To rub salt into the very open wound of season 2010, Sparky hobbled off minutes later with an injury forcing Dennis to enter the fray and attempt to resurrect his career. Like Ralpha, Sparky was done for the day and AC was well and truly in trouble with their stocks plummeting. The pair then spent the rest of the game sharing ice and war stories.
The game had turned into a war of attrition as AC fought tooth and nail to hold the Purple Eagles at bay. Unfortunately a sneaky goal followed by the luckiest goal we've seen this season saw AC 2-0 down.
AC were determined to go out with a hint of respect and took the game to the Eagles in the second half. The seasons star performer Jay was gaining control of the midfield, and Hendy had been push back up front. Things were looking good for a result as the balance shifted. Matt Pinkney was playing well and enjoying his time on the right wing defying his 48 years with blinding runs. The usual suspects were getting into their rhythm and the two nil deficit didn't seem insurmountable anymore.
Chance after chance came without result. The closest coming from Hendy who hit the post and saw the ball roll along the line before heading out. An regular onlooker was heard saying "that there, that shot and the result just typifies your season....close, but just not enough".
Yet another injury for the growing list as Dunc and Pinkney went for a header in the midfield. Unfortunately for Matt, Dunc sunk his teeth into the back of the hard mans skull drawing blood and leaving a flap of skin hanging. Pinkney was done for the day and joined good mate Ralpha on the sidelines.
As the sun was setting on the game a little ray of hope appeared. Hendy had the ball on the left and managed to play it to a rampant Jason who took control of the ball and slotted it home with style and grace. It was 2-1 and only ten minutes to go.
Ten minutes is a long time in football, but not with a ref like today. He'd already wasted 20 minutes of the game having in depth conversations with players, mainly Steve, on topics such as; linesman eating food, the art of holding the flag, what part of the body is considered taboo and of course what he and his wife were going to have for dinner. So it was no surprise as he confused and bemused both teams for the remained of the game, running down the clock and robbing AC the opportunity of escaping with a draw.
The game ended with another loss. The season ended, a career ended and now it's time to reflect and prepare for the end of season celebrations.
Season 2010's been a blast. There have been highs, but more lows, challenges and frustrations. All in all an eventful season ending in relegation and a return to division three.
AC Malvern 1 - 2 Tinky Winky FC
Byrne
Mannie's Man of the match: Ralpha
WAG's Man of the match: Ivan Dennis
Number one ticket holder; Tinky Wink
