On Tuesday 14th January, in pleasant winter sunshine , not the usual biting wind, wet and cold this location is known for, the Leyton Orient over 65s strikerless squad set out to play in the first set of Middlesex FA over 65 friendly tournaments of 2025.

First up for Orient were Cedars. The O’s, deploying one defender, four in midfield and with players breaking from the midfield into forward positions. Unfortunately a mistake led to Orient conceding an early goal. The Orient had opportunities to score but they came and went. Overall passing and movement demonstrated that too much Christmas pudding had been consumed. Final score: Leyton Orient 0 v 1 Cedars.

Next up were Bee Stingers, probably named after their black and yellow kit. Orient’s play had not improved much from the previous game. However overall the O’s were the better side and had chances to score, and defensively were not stretched. Final score: Leyton Orient 0 v 0 Bee Stingers.

The third game was against Running is Prohibited Monday group and Orient saw an improvement in their passing and moving and talking game. On top for large parts of the game Orient conceded with almost with the last kick of the match. Final score: Leyton Orient 0 v 1 Running Is Prohibited Monday.

The final game of the day was against the Running is Prohibited Thursday group, one of the stronger sides on the day. By now Orient were into their stride, and put in a strong performance. A defensive mix up led to a goal conceded Orient then missed the chance to equalise when a penalty was saved. However another penalty was neatly put away for Orient in the second half by Mick Mullins to equalise. Final score Running Is Prohibited 1 v 1 Leyton Orient (Mullins).

After play captain Jon Barrick said, “Special word for David James who put in a good shift in goal, and for Micky Brennan who had some exceptional games playing at the back. Overall an enjoyable four games.”

Leyton Orient squad: David James (Gk), Jon Barrick (Cpt), Steve Tongue, Simon Baker, Mick Mullins, Vince Dooley, Steve Inkpen, Mick Brennan.

Goalscorers: Mullins.

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Image used © 2025 Trevor Ridley