On Sunday 3rd May, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Veterans entertained West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Veterans in a friendly football match at Withdean Stadium, Brighton.

Both teams took to the field of play in a confident mood. East Sussex had 15 players available and West Sussex had their full complement of 20.

The majority of the West Sussex team play regular football and this showed in the first ten minutes as they had the majority of possession and chances.

As the game progressed East Sussex settled down and matched West Sussex in all areas of play but neither team could find that finishing touch.

East Sussex started the stronger in the second half and soon took the lead when Steve Courtnage slotted home with a goalmouth scramble following a corner.

East Sussex grew in confidence and Andy Reynolds broke free of the West Sussex defence and slotted home number two.

West Sussex made a few changes and upped their game and hit the bar before they were awarded a harsh penalty when Adam Henstock was judged to have used part of his arm to control the ball.

Despite great efforts from goalkeeper Matt Harrison, he could not reach the perfectly placed penalty for a 2-1 score. Only brave defending and heroic goal keeping kept East Sussex's lead in tact.

East Sussex weathered the storm and were awarded a free kick 35 yards out. Andy Arshavin Smith placed the ball and thumped a 35 yard drive into the roof of the net for a 3-1 lead.

As the game continued, East Sussex's lack of fresh legs started to show and West Sussex's continuous rotation took effect as they managed to score another goal 3-2. Despite receiving a battering for the last 5 minutes East Sussex held on for a deserving win.

Dave Amiet, Coaching for a Safer Community Project Manager, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said: "Many thanks to everyone who attended and represented the team. I'm looking forward to the start of the new season and encouraging more veterans to get involved."