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Set in the backdrop of the famous Hackney Marshes, the Mabley Green pitches are befitting for a high calibre competition, such is the ILFL veterans league. Players from a generation that have played together and against each other for many years bring a competitive edge which adds to the drama. Local derbies and historical rivalries play out on a weekly basis making for enthralling viewing.
This TVL season, like those that preceded it, was nothing short of exceptional, we were treated to some scintillating football from a plethora of talent on show. We have witnessed fantastic goals, defensive solidity, and goal keeping master classes. As the seasons pass with it brings new and exciting fresh talent, and we as an organisation are privileged to be in a position to provide a platform for these talented players, to continue playing football competitively at this age.
As we draw the curtains on the TVL18 league season, let’s take a moment to pause and reflect upon some of the highlights.
*The Showpiece Premiere division*- Bromley Legends and Camden Panthers have been leading the pack for a while now with only one point separating the two, this championship came down to the last game, with Bromley securing their first ever ILFL vets premier division title on the 15th of June. This will be one to remember, the first is always special.
*The rise and rise of Mohammedan Vets* Mohammedan vets have two teams in the competition , the A team that have played TVL18 in division 1 and the B team that have participated in division 3. Both have successfully won their divisions and sealed promotion to the premier and second division respectively for TVL19. This is a club that promotes fluid passing and attacking football, they are a club with a great history and are showing their credentials in our veterans league with both teams rising through the ranks in tandem.
*Battle for the second division*- This has been a closely contested competition, with three teams that were in the race fighting it out to be champions and it came down to the wire, their fate decided in what was an adrenaline filled final night of football on the 29th of June. Going in to the games, Stepney required a win to seal the title, Wapping required a win and we’re dependent on Stepney losing, and Docklands needed to beat Stepney and required Wapping to draw or lose. With the various permutations, there was only to be one outcome, at the end of the night the newly crowned champions were…Stepney Legends. Congratulations for a successful season, they showed grit, determination, and consistency throughout.
*Clapton’s Conquest*- Clapton All Stars B have won the 4th division in their maiden season, accomplishing the title win with two games remaining, a fantastic season in which they played brilliant football in the right spirit, thoroughly deserved champions!
I can write and wax lyrical about how fantastic this ILFL competition is, but if you have not experienced it, I invite you to join us on any given Thursday from from 8pm at Mabley Green, our TVL18 cup games will be running throughout the month of July, come live the moment with us!
The Thursday night ILFL veterans football league is growing from strength to strength, with an ever increasing demand from teams to participate. We currently accommodate 35 teams across 5 divisions and have a waiting list that can quite easily fill up another division, but lack of available facilities is a limitation to growth.
The veterans league is only one of a number of leagues we operate on a weekly basis all year round, spanning from open age 7 aside to 11 aside football. ILFL is a community initiative ran by members of the community for the community. With support from the local authority and local businesses we can continue to grow and provide this great service, which has numerous benefits to include mental and physical well being as well as social cohesion. If you would like to support us and be involved please contact Rashid Ali; rashid@ilfl.org for further information.
Notice by – Mabs Rahman/TVL Lead
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Instagram – @ilflextra
Website – Ilfl.org
Facebook – Inner London Football League
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