Some of football’s biggest names will be heading to the Diverse Marine Stadium (Westwood Park) tonight for a special Isle of Wight football occasion.
Southampton Legends will travel across the Solent for a high-profile showdown against an Isle of Wight Legends side this evening (Friday), with organisers hoping for another huge crowd in Cowes.
The match – organised by Newport IW FC in partnership with Cowes Sports – is being held in memory of John “Simmo” Simpkins, while also celebrating and supporting grassroots football on the Isle of Wight.
A crowd of more than 2,000 packed into the previous legends fixture 2 years ago, and another bumper attendance is expected for tonight’s showdown.
Among the star names set to appear for the Saints Legends are former Southampton favourites Rickie Lambert, Matt Oakley, Franny Benali MBE, Antti Niemi and Michael Svensson.
There will also be an international flavour to proceedings with 2 hugely decorated former internationals involved.
Sweden’s all-time most capped player Anders Svensson, who earned 149 caps for his country, is expected to feature alongside Northern Ireland’s record appearance holder Steven Davis MBE, who won 140 caps during his international career.
That gives the Southampton side a staggering combined 289 international caps between just 2 players.
The Isle of Wight side will be packed with familiar faces from the local football scene, with the Island squad including Adam Millar, Andy Butler, Charlie Smeeton, Darren Powell, Gary Streeter, Glenn Howes, Iain Seabrook, James Butt, Joe McCormack, John Holmes, Mark Isaacson, Martin Young, Martyn Raggett, Mick Butler, Ollie Fleming, Paul O’Connor, Simon Pilcher, Steve Coyle, Tom McInnes, Tom Scovell and Wayne Newnham.
Supporters are reminded there will be no tickets available on the gate, with all tickets needing to be purchased online in advance.
Limited parking will be available at the Plessey Club, with fans advised to arrive early and plan ahead.
Tickets for the match can be purchased online via Matterpay Tickets.
