FOOTBALL: HIGHGATE and Enfield Town respected a one minute silence prior to Saturday’s game at the Coppice to remember Tony Allden.
The friendly remembered the tragic events of the FA Amateur Cup Quarter Final match between both sides which took place 50 years ago.
A lightning strike resulted in a tragic death of Highgate centre half Allden.
Tony’s widow Sue, sister Christine, and players from the fateful day took part in the one minute silence to remember Tony and mark the passing of Fred Drennan – one of Highgate’s founder members.
Early on in the game, Town’s Danny Rumens shot over the crossbar from an early corner before Drew Roberts tested home keeper Brad Hayward.
On 18 minutes, a well struck free-kick from Aaron Brown cleared the visitors’ bar with keeper Joe Wright at full stretch.
Highgate’s Trevor Edwards was then penalised for handball in the box, which allowed Roberts to hand Enfield Town the advantage.
Ralston Gabriel’s shot then deflected off Scott Turner to double Town’s lead.
Ashley Pulisciano’s men continued to press and had strong appeals for a penalty denied when the otherwise impressive Wright appeared to impede Mooney as the two players tussled for a loose ball on the goal line.
Roberts then swept a Steve Wales cross onto Hayward’s cross bar, the third goal coming on 40 minutes when Roberts fired home at the foot of the upright after a long throw from Krehniq Krasniqi had been flicked on by Simon Thomas.
Looking to restore some second half pride, Highgate’s Darren Purse did well to intercept an effort from Aaron Brown.
Harley Haag shot over for Town and then Dale Edwards was just wide in search of what would have been a well merited goal for the home side.
Sam Young then shot over and Hayward got to another Wales cross ahead of the onrushing Haag.
The final action of the match saw Purse get in the way of another effort from Brown the whistle blowing on what had been an entertaining encounter.
Highgate official Rob Farr has written a book about Tony’s life, Highgate’s progress and adventure in what was the then FA Amateur Cup, covering events both before and after the tragedy.
‘Then Suddenly’ can be purchased for £9.99 either on match days at the Coppice or by email at [email protected].
Highgate are back in action on Saturday when they visit West Midlands Regional League side Tividale for an FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round encounter at 3pm.
