The Bohemian FC Walking Football team had a successful trip to Newcastle for their debut in the Walking Football Champions League.

The group consisted of nine players who formed the walking football group as part of the Bohs in the community programmes in August. Since then, the group has grown from six to 16 members, and they meet every Monday morning in Cabra.

Recently, they hosted a friendly match against Shamrock Rovers Walking Football team, and first-team manager Declan Devine conducted a training session before their trip.

The team that departed for Newcastle comprised Bohs fans, members, ex-board members, and ex-Irish internationals. They were in high spirits, ready to take on Europe.

The group was hosted by Newcastle United for dinner at St James’ Park, retiring early to prepare for the tournament the next day.

Bohs were drawn in Group B alongside Schalke, Real Betis, Chelsea, Rangers, and Glasgow Life. Their first game against Schalke ended in a loss with a last-minute goal.

They then secured two scoreless draws against Real Betis and Chelsea, displaying strong performance against tough opponents, including ex-professionals. With two points from three games and conceding just one goal, the team’s defence stood out.

In their fourth game against Rangers, Bohs performed excellently, winning 4-0. This set up a crucial final group game against Glasgow Life, who deservedly emerged as 2-0 winners. Glasgow Life, known for hosting the largest one-day walking football tournament in Europe, posed a tough challenge.

Bohs finished fifth in the group on goal difference, having conceded only three goals overall. This positioned them in the fifth place knockout rounds, competing against Salford City and Motherwell. The game against Motherwell ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw. In their final match against Salford City, Bohs secured a well-deserved 2-0 win, finishing top among the fifth-placed group teams.

The group stage proved to be tough, as four out of six teams from Bohs’ group finished top in their knockout rounds. Ultimately, Newcastle United emerged as the overall champions, defeating Schalke in the final. The trip concluded with a dinner and tour at St James’ Park before the team returned home. The team’s impressive performance, considering their formation less than a year ago, has them eagerly looking forward to the next tournament in August.

If you’re interested in joining the walking football team, new members are welcome. The team trains at Inspire Fitness Cabra every Monday at 11am, followed by a cup of tea and a chance to catch up.

For more information, please contact James Flanagan at james.flanagan@bohemians.ie.