I was fine in the days leading up to the match even though the thoughts of giving up doing something you've done for 40 years was a bit daunting (Richie don't say anything). It was only while driving to Vauxhall that Nick started playing "The Rockford Files" theme music which Rovers come out to on match day that I started to feel a bit strange. Not exactly sad, but it had been part of a routine we had built when he was simultaneously learning to drive and play football over 10 years ago, and it evoked a lot of good memories.

Paul and I were captains and with it being my testimonial I had picked both sides in advance in order to avoid a stress free 5 mins in the dressing room. I did try to be as fair as possible, I promise, although I couldn't resist having Bren in goal. After all this was my chance to seek revenge on Paul who recently always seemed to beat me.

The game started with the yellows looking sharp and strong but we managed to keep them restricted to some long range shots which Bren handled with his usual aplomb (while probably handling his plums at the same time). Then quite early on my Super White Army (SWA) broke very decisively and Reuben made a very neat finish.

After 20 mins I subbed myself with another veteran, the legend and founder member of plus 30 Geoff Sheen, however 5 mins later I was back on due to Harvey being injured. (Hope you're on the mend Harv)

The game seemed to follow a familiar pattern with the yellows applying plenty of pressure which we soaked up and Bren made some great saves from long range efforts. Cush and Reuben scored again from good breaks and with some assistance from Richie clowning around in goal.

Whilst 3 nil up, the Jamie did manage to break through our defence but the ball deflected off Bren and I managed to clear off the line.

I thought it was a great game that was much closer than the 3 - 0 suggests. My team were all magnificent and did me proud with special mentions for Bren in goal, Pete at the back so solid, Geoff in midfield didn't put a foot wrong, Reuben with his great finishing.

MOM - this was a really hard decision and could have gone to any of the aforementioned but I've given it to Nick for all his tireless running and tackling.

THANK YOU'S - Thanks to Alan and Nick from the Plus 60's and Bob for coming to watch. It was great to see you there and it made the night even more special. Paul for being a sporting opposition captain and Gary for organising everyone for the photo and organising the teams. The work you do for the club is brilliant.

Also, a massive thank you to you all in making it a very special night for me. I hope you all manage to play for as long as I have been able to. It's a brilliant club with some special people (Richie excluded :P). It's been a great pleasure for me to play with you all. Long live Plus 30's.

Laurie