On Saturday our Academy side visited  Old Parmiterians in a match to remember our former manager Barrie Williams, who also coached the old boys. Below is a nice message received from the OPs.

I think all those who attended yesterday will agree it was a memorable day and a fitting tribute to Barrie, who did so much for both clubs and will remain a huge part of our histories.Firstly, I would like to thank Dave and Marvin for sending over their Sutton side to windswept Walthamstow ! Your  players were a credit to your club. The game was very competitive and played in an excellent spirit ,which is a tribute to both clubs. Obviously Sutton were much fitter and quicker than Parmiterians and it did seem in the first half they played with 12/13 players ,as they seemed to be all over the pitch ! They took the lead after about 20minutes which was well deserved. The pattern continued with Sutton having about 75/25% possession and numerous half chances but Parmiterians gradually eased into the game and looked dangerous on the break. Some generous finishing and solid and some last ditch defending kept the score at 1-0 at half time. The second half saw the same pattern however an early break down the right saw the Sutton left back with most of the Parmiterians wingers shirt in his hands so a penalty was given. VAR was not needed. The kick was safely converted. The next 30 minutes saw Sutton continuously seeking the winner and in the final 5 minutes a good move saw the ball smash off the right hand post to safety. I would suggest the 1-1 result is how Barrie would have wanted it ! I think it was probably the largest crowd at Douglas Eyre and it was great to see a number of OP Vice Presidents in attendance ,together with a good number of players who played under Barrie during the 90’s. Special mention to those who travelled by train and those who had other commitments but attended for an hour or so. Barrie’s close family were in attendance and pretty sure they thought it was a great occasion that Barrie would have approved of ! Thanks also to a couple of OPFC 200 club members who recently asked that their winnings be put towards the day and the three Officials who did a great job, especially as they are not used to seeing players move at the speed of the Sutton players ! Thanks also to Paul Shrosbree who helped organise the day and Paul Cox, the DE Centre Groundsman/Chef/Barman his brother and Lynn with the catering. Thankyou all. Barrie Williams RIP