As the football season drew to a close, the Hippo Motor Group wanted to see it out with a bang. Blackburn Rovers have worked closely with us since we moved to our showroom on Trident Park and we were very fortunate to be able to use Ewood Park to host a match in aid of East Lancashire Hospice. We were delighted to confirm our opponents for the day were our Trident Park neighbours, Organic Insurance.
The weather had taken a positive turn over the weekend and whilst a bonus for the spectators this did make the conditions on the pitch a little more difficult! In preparation for the kick off both teams got the chance to live the full professional experience. Hippo took over the home changing room with our invited opponents residing in the visitors changing rooms.
With the stadiums PA system sounded, both teams made their way to the pitch for some pre-match team photos along with some time to absorb the atmosphere. Once the game kicked off, Hippo took advantage of a couple of mistakes to get some early chances but failed to capitalise. As the first half proceeded, Hippo had to face a growing injury list as well as tiring legs in the May heat. This left them short in some positions but it took until late in the second half for the deadlock to be broken. Unfortunately for the Hippo team, the goal went to Organic and it was up hill from there. Despite only one fit substitute remaining, Hippo managed to equalise with a fine volley from Jay Howard.
A tense and a little slower final 20 minutes followed before the game concluded, ending 1-1. With spoils shared after 90 warm minutes, it was time to settle the game by a penalty shoot-out. No one had prepared for penalties… and you could tell! Some poor penalties were mixed amongst some very good ones which left it down to Hippo’s keeper to save the penalty that eventually won the game.
A presentation followed in the Blues Bar behind the Blackburn End which saw the Hippo team presented with the main trophy. Hippo also nominated centre back, Andrew Spencer as their team’s man of the match.
The game was very well fought and we’d like to thank Organic Insurance and the referee and linesmen who gave up their Sunday afternoon. We’re also very grateful to East Lancashire Hospice who provided invaluable support on the day in the form of volunteers as well as some fantastic entertainment for our spectators. Last but not least, we’d like to thank Blackburn Rovers who were incredibly accommodating and made the day very memorable for all involved as well as donating some fantastic prizes for the raffle.
Images are now able to view on our Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1089624831108993.1073741836.124824404255712&type=1&l=d0e96f85cc
