The above originated pre match in the changing room when Chris Childs begged the question “you get a murder of crows”, what would we be called – I will leave you to draw your own conclusions on some of the endearing comments then put forward, but to me it would be “The Collective” based on the following!

First back to 1898, when Messrs. Thomas, Hill, Hempleman and Richardson were tasked with sourcing a pitch for the newly formed OPFC, it probably wasn’t on the then Committee’s agenda that a game against an England X1 one day would occur – but yes, after their endeavours and that of many notable others over the years, OPFC grew into the Club it is today and the fixture took place at Douglas Eyre Sports Ground, Walthamstow on the 15th January 2022. Fascinating to think OPFC’s first game was just down the road at Wanstead in October 1898, not quite like going to Woking, but, a bit of a beano from Bethnal Green and no Oyster card in those days!

I think it only correct that at this point to mention a special thanks on behalf of OPFC to Longy for all his time and effort in getting this game played after two previous postponements and both Terry Taylor and Bruce Smith who were instrumental in bringing the sides together but unable to attend due to illness.

And so, to the game itself which basically epitomised “The Collective”, a total of 109 people congregated onto the 3G pitch to either take part and/or watch the game and kick start the year 2022, also notable as the Tricentennial celebration of the School’s formation.

Whether you looked onto the pitch or along the touchline you saw “faces” synonymous with Old Parmiterians FC – Robinson dapper in his various regalia of cardinal and blue, Mariani, Heuston, Mehmet, Staines, Quy, Bermel, Baldwin, Marsden, Walsh, Cowens, Swaby and Mitchell all ex-School and thus allocated to a House name – is there a Bevan and/or a Wooley amongst them?

Of course, all the House names are covered by the new kid on the block to OPFC Super Vets, Headmaster Michael Jones, henceforth, to be called “Jonesey” now his initiation is over, like some other infamous fraternal organisation, his knees have been seen!

Then to those who are another part of the “Collective”, whilst not school attendees, they’re the ethos of the Football Club joining the Club from the early 80’s onwards –Messrs. Bright, Brothers Long, Yeomans, Griffiths, Childs, Robbins, Holder, West, Apperly, Harrison, Struthers, Day, Wood, Greenwood, Groom, Woods, Tripp, Stewart, Roca, Gold, Burley, Conway and dare I say myself.
A few of the above mentioned were not available to play and along with the new “Collective” current 1st X1 Manager Brendan Kelly and Captain Chris Scherer together with many others we watched a very enjoyable and competitive game of football. The game did not disappoint and OP’s showed all the quality expected under the guidance of Micky “Pep” Bright and whilst we edged the first half, enforced changes to play in other games on the day and/or injuries, enabled England to win the game with a fairly dominant last 10/15 minutes. A penalty from Mitch sandwiched between a goal in each half for England’s Rob Beel.

Part of the “Collective” easily forgotten are our Club Officials – Mark Poulter, Ray Prentice and Barry Kelly who officiated the game unseen and unheard to perfection, no need for VAR or in our case VEO a Danish video subscription, albeit, the mind boggles if the red button is pressed and premium service is viewed!

And then to the bar, where the “Collective” comes into it’s own! Hospitality warmly provided by Lynn, Yvonne and Gary – hot food and jugs of beer on the table for the opposition, El Presidente presents Man of the Match award to Rob Beel, England Manager Ken Pollock thanks OPFC for a great afternoon and requests a return match, time for atmospheric noise, chit chat, banter, laughs and the afternoon is an enjoyable success whether you played or more importantly you were there amongst it all!

Oh, by the way OPFC were involved, managed and played 11 other games on the 15th, some at home and some away all thanks to Old Parmiterians Football Club Members, simply, “The Collective”, and all are welcome to be part of it!

Paul Shrosbree
OPFC Bean Counter
Paul.shrosbree.opfc@gmail.com