GALA Fairydean Rovers walking footballers reached the quarter finals of the inaugural Over 60s Glasgow Cup on Friday.

A total of 23 teams from throughout the country took part in the event which was organised by Glasgow Sport and held at the Toryglen facility next to Hampden Park.

Gala lost their opening fixture to Ayr United thanks to a goal from former Kilmarnock striker Chris Fleming then were awarded the three points when their next opponents Stenhousemuir failed to attend.

A trademark Gordon Rae thunderbolt secured a share of the points against Sauchie Juniors which left Gala in third place at the break.

The players found their form after lunch and a double from Mike Godsman saw off the Gerihatricks from East Kilbride which left the team level on points with Drumchapel United in the final group stage fixture but with a superior goal difference.

Requiring a draw to ensure qualification, Gala started on the front foot and Rae opened the scoring with the goal of the tournament then added a second from an acute angle before Godsman wrapped things up. Drumchapel pulled one back but Gala comfortably held on for the 3-1 victory.

The quarter final against Glasgow Sport South was an evenly fought game and both teams had chances to win. Gala keeper Ross Buchan produced a fantastic save to keep the score level whilst his counterpart at the other end did likewise to deny Rae then Godsman.

With penalties looking likely, Glasgow scored a late goal to eliminate the Borders’ side.

Glasgow Sport South went on to win the tournament, beating Ayr United in the final and were awarded the trophy by former Celtic, Hibernian and Scotland star Murdo MacLeod.

Gala captain John Hislop said: “It was great to see almost 250 men and women, all aged over 60, from throughout Scotland taking part in this superb event. The games were highly competitive but generally played on a good spirit and after a slow start I thought we played well and were unfortunate not to progress further.

“Walking football is becoming increasingly popular and it’s a great way to keep fit and make new friends. We play each Monday and Thursday at Langlee Community Centre and I would encourage anyone to come along and give it a try. Newcomers will be made welcome.”