by Mark Seymour
In the inaugural season of Over-70s walking football competition in Wales, Haverfordwest County AFC’s Over-70s squad have made history — finishing second in the All-Wales National Play-Off Finals, held in Newtown on 23rd October.
Their place at the finals was earned through a determined second half to the league campaign, rallying with four wins, one draw, and just one defeat in their final six matches to climb to third in the table. That consistency and competitive spirit secured a coveted spot among the top teams in Wales.
At the finals, the squad showed resilience and tactical maturity, bouncing back from an opening defeat to eventual winners Deeside and going unbeaten in their remaining four matches:
- Haverfordwest County 0–2 Deeside
- Haverfordwest County 1–0 Merthyr Town
- Haverfordwest County 0–0 Cardiff A
- Haverfordwest County 2–1 Cardiff B
- Haverfordwest County 0–0 Coedpoeth
The only loss of the day came against the champions — and even then, Haverfordwest County were never outclassed. Every match was competitive, and the squad held their own throughout. That first game may have slipped away more through over-eagerness than anything else — a bit too much enthusiasm, not quite enough control. But the response was immediate, and the team’s character came through loud and clear.
Mark Seymour, on-the-day manager for the squad, said: “It was a real privilege, and I feel grateful and proud to have been able to stand alongside this team as their on-the-day manager.”
Paul Williams, Haverfordwest County Walking Football Club chairman and over-70s captain, reflected: “The aim for our over-70s in 2025 was to be able to represent our club in the South Wales league.
“By drawing on players from the greater Pembrokeshire area the squad developed quickly to break through not only regionally but on the national stage.
“Personally, I am greatly honoured and proud to be part of such an amazing group of people that I can call friends — together proving that age is but a number.
“A big thank you to Mark Seymour who has worked as our non-playing manager throughout the league campaign. As several of us commented over a pint this week, it seems strange to be talking about playing competitive sport in your 70s — but even more amazing to be looking forward to 2026 with such great enthusiasm and optimism. My sincere thanks to everyone who joined us on this journey.”
The over-70s squad’s performance reflects not only the growing strength of walking football in Wales, but also the continued growth and ambition of Haverfordwest County AFC Walking Football Club. The team’s success is built on camaraderie, consistency, and a shared love of the game — and it’s a legacy that’s open to all.
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