THERE were mixed fortunes for Gala Fairydean Rovers Walking Footballers during the fifth round of fixtures in the national league at Ravenscraig on Wednesday.

The day started with a 3-0 defeat to a vastly improved Stenhousemuir side on indoor pitch four then the remaining two matches took place outdoors on pitch six where both teams had to content with heavy rain.

Goals from Jim Watters and John Dodds gave Gala a well-deserved half-time lead against high-flying Glasgow Sport West who started the day in third place.

Glasgow fought back and equalised with a controversial goal after the scorer appeared to be running. Despite protests, the goal stood and the game seemed to be heading for a draw until Watters broke clear and set up Howard Edge who calmly stroked the ball past the keeper to secure the three points.

In the final game against old rivals Hearts 98, Edge gave Gala a deserved lead but the Edinburgh side fought back and equalised from the penalty spot.

Both sides had chances and Ross Buchan produced several fine saves to keep the score level.

Hearts thought they had won the game with a late headed goal however heading the ball is forbidden in the sport and the effort was disallowed.

Chairman John Hislop said: “The standard of play amongst all teams has improved considerably since the tournament started three years ago but Gala continue to hold their own against teams with many more to pick from.

“Walking football has really taken off throughout the country and at Ravenscraig around 100 men, all aged over 50 took part on the day. Thousands play the game each week and benefit from not only the exercise but also from the friendships made and I would encourage others to come and see for themselves.

“We play twice a week at Netherdale, on Mondays and Thursdays at 2.30pm and newcomers will be made welcome.”