GLORY in a highly-anticipated cup final has capped off the “perfect” debut season, a veteran football side’s manager has said.

On Saturday, June 19, Ramsey and Mistley Vets FC took home the Tiptree Charity Cup after a resounding 4-1 victory against First City.

An early goal from Michael Brothers saw the side start on the front foot but First City responded almost instantly to level the scores.

In what manager Martin Warnes described as some of the “best football” his side have played all year, Ramsey and Mistley took control with goals from Matt Carmichael, Andy Page and Ashley Finch.

A missed penalty in the final five minutes was to be forgotten as the side got their hands on the trophy to round off their first season together as a veterans side.

Mr Warnes said: “I was absolutely made up that in our first season as a vets side we managed to win some silverware.

“Most of the guys have played together over the years so are all familiar faces, but to do it as a vets team has been a huge achievement.

“This will act as a platform for next season, as something to build on. We have already made a few signings and have been in talks with others who see us as one of the best veterans sides in Essex.”

Earlier in the season, the side were high-flying at the top of their league before it was cancelled due to constant disruption as a result of Government coronavirus restrictions, but they now have something to show for what was looking like a promising campaign.

“The Covid restrictions have made our first season together all the more harder, it’s been a stop-start season,” Mr Warnes added.

“However, it has been something to keep focused on throughout the lockdowns. Our WhatsApp group alone has kept people going at times I think.

“It has been amazing. The willingness from people to be involved has been overwhelming at times.

“The vets section is a huge credit to the club and chairman Rob Passmore. I would definitely encourage people to get involved in vets football if they wished to. We have two sides now and are always looking for new players to join the squad.”

Ramsey and Mistley veterans will now kick off their pre-season on Saturday, July 10, where they take on newly-formed Brooklands Vets FC at Ramsey playing fields.