Matt Le Tissier, who played for both Liverpool Legends and Bels in last year’s match, will play alongside brothers Carl and Kevin in September. (0483951)
THE Guernsey Legends team to face Liverpool Legends has been named.
Following a massive response from the public, who were asked to name their team of former island stars to play Liverpool greats of yesteryear on Monday 8 September at The Track, a provisional squad of 21 has been announced by manager Glyn Smith.
‘I’m very pleased with it,’ he said. ‘I think we’ve got the right mix of the older legends, some of the classy, cultured players and the more youthful players who will bring the fitness to keep up with an ex-professional side.’
The older legends in the squad come in the form of Colin Renouf and Colin Gervaise-Brazier. Towering centre half Renouf is widely regarded as the island’s greatest Muratti player and was a lynchpin in the Guernsey side during the 1960s alongside his St Martin’s teammate, goalkeeper Gervaise-Brazier.
Renouf has been named as the squad’s captain. ‘I’m delighted that Colin and Gerve have agreed to play,’ said Smith.
‘That’s a big turnout for us.’
Renouf will be joined on the night by his son, Jan, who is part of the younger group of players who have been selected and who include the Nobes brothers, Paul and John, Adie Exall and Mark Coutanche who were part of the all conquering Sylvans side of the 1990s.
North veteran defender Stuart Polson has also been named as he looks to play another season in the top flight.
The dominating Vale Rec side of the 80s is also well represented by the likes of Peter Blondel and Chris Dyer, who are two of the top four most capped Guernsey Muratti players ever, Alan Bougourd and Carl and Kevin Le Tissier.
Their younger brother and Southampton and England legend, Matt, joins the Le Tissiers in the line-up.
Guernsey coach Steve Ogier is also in the squad.
Smith plans to have a couple of training sessions for his squad at Blanche Pierre Lane in the run-up to the game.
‘It will be to get a feel for the ball again,’ he said.
‘It’s all about getting on the pitch and learning how to play with each other.’
And they are going to need the sessions, as there are no doubts that they are going to have a real challenge on their hands trying to keep up with the Liverpool Legends.
In front of 3,500 fans at the Track last year, the Reds, who boasted the likes of John Barnes, Ian Rush, Jan Molby and Jason McAteer in their ranks, came from 4-0 down against Priaulx side Bels to win 6-4.
Worryingly for the Greens, the Liverpool team looks set to be as strong or even stronger this year with a few more legends set to be named.
‘I expect it to be a tough game but I’m sure we’ll compete,’ said Smith.
‘Everyone is enthusiastic and they are chomping at the bit. They can’t wait to start training.’
Bank Julius Baer and Evans & Co. will again sponsor the event which is organised by the Guernsey Liverpool Supporters’ Club.
Last year’s match raised £26,000 for Les Bourgs Hospice and Help a Guernsey Child.
Guernsey Cheshire Home will benefit from this year’s game.
Tickets are on sale at Intersport, WH Smith, the Aurigny ticket desk at the airport and from the Evans & Co. offices in Barras Lane.
The stand costs £15 for adults and £8 for under-16s and pensioners while watching from around the ground is £12 and £8 respectively.
Article posted on 31st July, 2008 - 2.29pm
Loading ...
Most Commented: