On Monday 3rd March RIP (Running is Prohibited) over 70s invited Leyton Orient Walking FC over 70s to a series of three friendly games at the Barnet Power League.

These 7-a-side games, played on a boarded pitch to FA walking football rules, took place in glorious spring sunshine.

The first game saw Orient enjoy the majority of possession but with little end product. Poor marking and a deflected shot led to an RIP victory. Given the level of O’s possession this was a disappointing result. Final score: Leyton Orient 0 v 2 RIP.

The first half of the second game saw the same pattern of play for Orient. However, a change of tactics in the second half from 2-3-1 to a more attacking 1-3-2, paid dividends as Orient posed much more of goal threat. Kassam finished off a flowing move with a well taken goal. Orient’s controlled possession resulted in RIP being tempted into repeated running offences thereby conceding a penalty. Chris Conlan dispatched a confident shot and Orient ran out winners. Final score: RIP 0 v 2 Leyton Orient (Kassam, C Conlan (pen)).

The third game again saw Orient dominate possession and they went ahead via a goal from Steve Skaith. However, from being totally in control, two second half goals from RIP turned the game on its head. Once again Orient’s possession tempted RIP into conceding a ‘team not walking’ penalty. Stevenson equalised from the spot with the last kick of the game. Final score: RIP 2 v 2 Leyton Orient (Skaith, Stevenson(pen)).

This was a very enjoyable morning’s football and good prep for the League season ahead. RIP we’re hospitable
hosts and their referee was excellent, adding to the enjoyment of the games which were played in a good spirit!

Leyton Orient over 70s squad: Derek Myers (Gk), Steve Tongue (Cpt), Jon Barrick, Chris Conlan, Phil Stevenson, Gerry Schneider, Tony Brooks, Hassan Kassam, Steve Skaith.

Manager, Mick Mullins.

Goalscorers: Kassam, C Conlan, Skaith, Stevenson.

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Image used © 2025 Trevor Ridley