Centenary Memorial Match – 5th April 2009

Fernhurst Sports Football celebrated it’s 100th birthday in style on Sunday with a match against a Brighton & Hove Albion select XI featuring many well-known names from the world of football locally.

The football club was admitted into the league in 1907, but last years death of club secretary, Gerald Puttick, put the celebrations on hold, so the club organised this match as a celebration of the centenary and as memorial match for Gerald.

Over 400 people watched the team play against Portsmouth favourites such as Alan Knight, Guy Butters and Andy Awford. Despite the gulf in league status it was a keenly contested match, the communication and finishing of the ex-professionals proving critical and allowing the Brighton XI to take a 3-0 lead into half-time.

The visitors took their foot off the gas in the second half and just before the end Fernhurst were awarded a penalty, despatched by captain Dave Williams.

The match was organised to raise money for two charities close to the hearts of the football club – Marie Curie Cancer Care was the chosen charity for Gerald Puttick, and as a memorial to him, half of the money raised goes to helping this fine cause. The other charity to benefit is the Sussex FA Benevolent Fund which has helped so many local players who suffer injury over the years. For players who depend on their mobility for work, a broke leg can cause financial hardship, and the sports insurance is slow, and provides only the minimum cover.

On the sidelines, the crowd enjoyed their afternoon in the sunshine, with burgers and ice cream being consumed liberally. The Brighton players complimented Fernhurst on creating such a professional and friendly atmosphere, and were so impressed that they have promised to send another team next year. They also challenged Fernhurst Cricket Club to a match – watch out for news on that.

The club raised approximately £600 for charity, through the sale of matchday programmes, advertising and refreshments. They also got reacquainted with many former players, many of whom lined up for a half-time photo.

The club would like to thank everyone for supporting this event and the club over the last 100 years, and look forward to welcoming new players and supporters to the Recreation Ground in the future.