Two academy players Ben Walker (14) and James Alker (14) who have just returned from an intense training week at the National Academy, Millfield together with a relatively young team, came second in the 2009 Brian Walsh Senior Charity Tournament held at Blackpool.

Lancaster’s team consisted of only three senior players Ryzh Detko, Stephen Smith and Zak Sly along with younger players, Mike Brown (17), Sam Liver (17), Robert Simpson (15), Sam Smith (15), Greg Barker (16) including GB youth squad member Luke Franks (16) – making his debut for Lancaster. The team worked hard and did very well to achieve second place, playing against more experienced and often bigger/stronger players.

The winners of the tournament Kendal took full advantage of having two ‘professional’ GB senior players on their side.  Ed Scott who is considered potentially to be one of the best goalkeepers in Europe and vastly improved Glen Robinson arguably made a difference to the outcome.

During the tournament Ryzh Detko refereed several matches, also Zak Sly helped out Southport in goal.

After the tournament everyone gathered for some food and drink in aid of raising more money for the North West Air Ambulance.  This charity was chosen by Preston who sadly lost their club coach Mark Molloy late last year (they were part of the rescue team that attended the fateful incident).  The tournament was also in memory of the late Brian Walsh and Phil Derbyshire.