Into Creative reporter, Declan McConville, attended the first day of the Fansbet Star Sixes at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro last month, and here’s what he thought:
With the SPFL taking a few weeks off for the winter break, there was an array of legendary footballing talent on display at the SSE Hydro.
From the off, the Rest of the World side looked like the dominant force with players such as Pierre van Hooijdonk, Gaizka Mendieta and co impressing against the Republic of Ireland and Wales. The best goal of the day came from former Celtic and Aston Villa midfielder, Stan Petrov, who scored a beauty of a chip.
The Auld Enemy also began the day winning their games which set up a delightful final game of the day. With the whole Hydro crowd behind them, the Dark Blues stole the show with James McFadden being the stand-out performer by scoring a brace, which sent Scotland on their way to a 4-1 victory.
Afterwards, it was good to catch up with some of the players and chat all things football. The name Simon Church will ring a bell with many Aberdeen supporters, with the Welsh striker spending a short loan spell at Pittodrie. Unfortunately, due to a long-term hip injury Simon retired from professional football at the age of just 29. On the night, he spoke very highly of Aberdeen and told me of how much he enjoyed his time at Pittodrie. The ex-striker also told me about the early influence that current Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers had on him as a youngster.
I couldn’t help but ask Simon about the absolute rollercoaster journey he went on with Wales at the 2016 Euros. His experience was unbelievable and he was exceptionally proud to have played a part in it.
The day overall was a terrific experience from start to finish. It’s fair to say a lot of these guys haven’t lost it at all and could still do a turn for their former clubs.
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