East Sussex Over 65s football: the start of something!
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In April, East Sussex became the champions of over 60s football in England and they are currently in pursuit of back to back titles.
Meanwhile, last Sunday, at Bexhill College, the newly formed East Sussex Over 65s squad began their own journey, winning comfortably against rivals Buckinghamshire in their opening game of the 2026-27 National Over 65s Cup competition.
East Sussex, captained by their central midfield powerhouse Paul Elphick, dominated the game from the start and it was no surprise when Stephen Mangham thumped in their opener after good work from Mark Harrison.
The hosts were well organised and effective. Width was provided by Mike Pattenden whilst Mangham, Elphick and Steve Turner protected the back four and supported the twin attacking threat of Harrison and Bob Fletcher.
Martin Couzens was unlucky to pick up an injury in his warm-up and this prevented him from taking part.
Buckinghamshire offered little threat until they were gifted an equaliser following a mix-up in the East Sussex defence.
Soon after, East Sussex regained the initiative and were back in front before half time when Fletcher coolly finished after player/manager Johnny Harris had opened up the visitor’s defence with a superb defence splitting pass.
Keeper Ray Pennels was calm and assured throughout and saw out the rest of the game without alarm, well protected throughout by the formidable back four of full backs; Harris and Paul Adams and centre backs; Kim Fuller and Glenn Sully.
The second half continued in the similar fashion and the men in orange and black increased their lead when the ever menacing Fletcher scored with an unstoppable drive from inside the box from, following a cleverly worked indirect free kick.
Soon after, Turner slotted home number four, after his mazy run had left four opponents helpless in his wake.
East Sussex used their roll-on and roll-off substitutes very well and this enabled Alan Sargeant, Russ Smith, Vernon Deller and Rocco Barletta to replace some tired legs, each providing a fresh impetus when required and in doing so East Sussex dominance continued until the final whistle.
East Sussex Over 65s next National Cup game is against South West London at Bexhill College on 13th December 2026.