AS the second match of their extensive UK tour, the Victoria Legends from Vancouver, British Columbia, are taking on local team Penarth Wanderers Veterans FC on May 13, kick-off 6pm at Sully Sports and Leisure Club.

The Legends squad is made up of players who regularly turn out in matches arranged in the South Vancouver Island Classic Soccer Association which is made up of 36 teams divided into 40 plus, 48 plus and 55 plus age groups.

There are 142 players aged 60 plus registered with the teams; five of them are 70 plus. The game was arranged when the Wanderers website was found and the Legends ex-pat players wanted a game in Wales.

"Teams from the SVICSA play in tournaments or tour in the US, Hawaii, Japan, Cuba, Mexico, Costa Rica and Europe. However, they find it strange that when touring Europe or the UK, the home of football they have to play teams compiled of younger players because older ones have hung up their boots, finding the introduction of Walking Football in the UK amusing." says organiser Peter Denby, who is still playing at 75.

The Victoria Legends FC is composed of players aged 56 to 75, they are in the UK to enjoy a friendly game of soccer followed by a chance to interact with local players, experience the rich history of the UK and sample real ale. They will then take in matches in Saltash, Liverpool, Edinburgh and Sheffield.

"We are all looking forward to the match as a curtain raiser when later on the same week on May 15 and 16, the ‘Vets’ welcome back to Wales, the 13th Wim Bode International Veterans Football Tournament. Sully Sports Club will again host the event, last held in Wales in 2009, and will feature players aged between 35 and 60 from Holland, Belgium, England, Italy and of course Wales. Penarth triumphed in 2013 and will be hoping to claim the trophy once again, in what is always a competitive, but friendly tournament, with a motto ‘friendship through football’”, says Alun Huish, chairman.

For further information visit penarthwanderersvetsfc.co.uk.