On Sunday, 21st of April 2024, the Kent FA 50 + Walking Football Cup was held at the YMCA in Maidstone, with eleven teams from across the county competing.

The tournament commenced with the teams being split into two groups, where each team faced off against every other team within their respective group to secure a spot in the knockout stages.

Group Stage

Group A featured the defending champions, Maidstone United, along with Chatham Town, Canterbury Mariners, Sheppey Warriors, Herne Bay, and Tonbridge. Group B comprised Aylesford Amblers, Woodchurch, Ethelbert Wanderers, Bexley, and Woodnesborough.

Following the group stage, the top two teams from each group advanced to the semi-finals. Canterbury Mariners and Tonbridge, both amassing 9 points with a remarkable +6 goal difference in Group A, battled it out in a tense penalty shootout, ultimately securing Canterbury Mariners' position at the top. Meanwhile, Woodnesborough edged past Aylesford by a single point to clinch the leading spot in Group B.

Knockouts

As the competition narrowed down to four teams, Canterbury faced off against Aylesford, and Woodnesborough took on Tonbridge in the semi-finals. Despite both matches ending in goalless draws, Canterbury prevailed over Aylesford in the penalty shootout, while Woodnesborough secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Tonbridge, setting the stage for an exciting Canterbury versus Woodnesborough final.

Final

The final proved to be an intense showdown, with both teams maintaining unbeaten records throughout the tournament. Although Canterbury started strong with several attempts on goal, Woodnesborough took an early lead, applying pressure on Canterbury. Despite Canterbury's valiant efforts to regain control with increased intensity and possession, Woodnesborough sealed their victory with a second goal, ultimately triumphing 2-0.

Heartfelt congratulations to Woodnesborough for emerging as the champions of the 50's Cup for the 2023/2024 season!

For further information about Walking Football in Kent, feel free to contact the team at Development@KentFA.com