Student footballers victorious in match against staff at the home of Bolton Wanderers

University of Bolton staff took on students in a hard-fought football match at a rain-soaked Bolton Wanderers.

Players from the University’s first team competed against professional and academic staff at the Toughsheet Community Stadium and it was the students who came out on top, winning 2-1.

Tom Halligan, duty officer at Bolton One Sports Centre and Anderton Centre Outreach Liaison for the University of Bolton, organised the annual event, which this year raised money for Bolton Hospice.

He said afterwards: “Congratulations to the students. It was a good contest, but their team’s two goals were excellent.

“I’m sure it was a great experience for everyone involved and despite the bad weather, there was good support in the stands for both teams.”

Bolton SU President Uchenna Moses and the incoming President Jasneet Kaur were present to congratulate the winners.

Uchenna said: “It was an amazing day as our outstanding student team triumphed over the staff team.

“It was truly gratifying to see their hard work and practice pay off. This victory also highlighted the new relationships formed and exemplary teamwork displayed by our students.

“It marks a wonderful end to the exam period for students and emphasises the fantastic relationship between students and staff at the university. A special thank you to the University sports centre for organising this incredible football match, as well as to our Student Life Team and Student Union for their efforts in making this event a success.”

University Sports Centre Manager Jason Pendlebury and School of Engineering Technician John Pilkington acted as staff team managers.

Tom said: “ I would like to say a massive thanks to Jason and John, they did a fantastic job, it was just a shame from a staff point of view about the result!

“Having said that, it was a great experience for everyone involved and has helped a brilliant local charity.”

Money collected on the day from players and supporters will be donated to Bolton Hospice.