A CHARITY football match that pitted a club’s coaches against a team of under-17s ended with the teenagers thrashing the old timers 6-2.

Lydiard Youth Football Club held a special match at Kingsdown School on Saturday to raise funds for a new defibrillator.

The game was a family affair as football mad twins Kian and Craig Philpott, 16, took on their dad Paul, who happens to be the club’s assistant coach.

They boys’ mum Clare, 33, from Stratton, who is also the club’s administrator, said: “The match was really good fun considering it was foggy and cold. We had a good turnout and all the players really enjoyed themselves.

“Everyone played well, though the coaches started to flag a bit in the second half.”

The teams played a full 90 minute match and afterwards took advantage of the tea, coffee and cake on offer.

To rub further salt into coaches wounds, the last time the teams met the under 17s won 3-2.

Lydiard Youth FC, whose 14 teams play in the North Wiltshire Youth Football League, are hoping to raise £1,300 to buy a defibrillator for their Kingsdown School training ground.

Both under 17 sides at Lydiard Youth FC have suffered a losing streak recently, with one of the two teams losing 17-1 to FC Calne Rovers recently.

Clare said: “The new defibrillator is something we desperately need. The coaches aren’t as young as they used to be and it’s important to make sure the kids are safe. Hopefully we will never have to use it, but it will be good to know it’s there.”

Nurse Gail Murray, the club’s welfare officer, recommended that the club purchase the new emergency kit. The defibrillator is used to provide an electrical shock to the chest following a heart attack.

Businesses across Swindon generously donated top prizes for a match-day raffle. Arkell’s Brewery has given a case of beer and Freedog have given tickets for free trampolining sessions.

And after the match, footballer Kian Philpott shaved his head to raise funds for the appeal.

The former Kingsdown School pupil had previously raised £85 towards the head shave and the day’s activities are estimated to have brought in around £500, though more is expected.

Clare added: “Since having his head shaved he has definitely noticed a temperature change.”