FOR ANTHONY; Emotional tribute match raises pounds 1,620.

A FOOTBALL match in memory of Anthony Waters from Thorn by was played with passion and emotion at the TIBS football ground.

Anthony became ill and sadly lost his battle with leukemia on April 30 this year, only two days after his 21st birthday.

TIBS have a connection with the Waters family as their younger son, Matty, plays for the Under-15 side and the club were pleased to host the match and also donated memorial trophies.

Anthony's team was organised by next door neighbour and friend, Oliver Raby, and they named themselves "Anth's Mates 11" - and there was no shortage of players wanting to take part.

The team was made up of a group of Anthony's friends who had played football together each Sunday afternoon since about the age of nine or 10.

And Anthony's brothers, Matty, 14, and Charlie, 13, also took part in the game.

After a minute's silence the game kicked off and it turned out to be a highly competitive match against the Academy team from TIBS.

Chris Bentley opened the scoring for Anth's Mates before the TIBS Academy team equalized.

Oliver Raby and Luke Mcglochlin then struck to establish a 3-1 lead to Anth's Mates.

Two goals, which both had a hint of offside, evened up the result.

After extra time the match was decided on penalties with the occasion maybe getting too emotional for Anthony's friends as the Academy lads scored and won the game.

Ex-Boro and England player Gordon Jones was there to present the trophy and to say a few words, having met Anthony at a match.

Anthony's younger brother Matty was named Man of the Match for a great display that matched that of the older players.

Anthony's parents Shirley and Anthony Snr were presented with a trophy, which will be awarded annually, and a massive pounds 1,620 was raised.

The money will be going directly to helping patients in the haematology ward at North Tees Hospital where Anthony was looked after.

TIBS club secretary and the family's next door neighbour, Karen Raby, said: "Anthony was a great lad who loved his family, fiancee, friends, and football, although not necessarily in that order!

"He was a kind, gentle, loving person who always thought of others before himself, so it was no surprise that at least 200 people were there on the day. Anthony's parents, along with his brother Matty, sister Lauren and fiancee Carla Hill are just so pleased that so much money was raised and express their sincere thanks to all who helped to make the day such a success.

"Thanks to Stephen, Sheila, Craig, Mick and Oliver for all their planning and getting so many great raffle prizes.

"But lastly to Anthony's mates who were brilliant friends to him and remain a constant support to his parents.

"Thank you all."

CAPTION(S):

IN MEMORY: Anthony Waters, above, and left the team. Top row from left, Chris Bentley, Peter Dea, Kevin Hamilton, Jimmy Allison, James Wilson, Luke Mcglochlin, Paul Hutchinson, Andy Hall and Justin Berry.Bottom row from left, Shaun Mockler, Charlie Raby, James Mcgowan, Mark Hall, Matty Waters, Oliver Raby, Anthony Frater and Will ESKVALE AND CLEVELAND Thompson