Northern Ireland’s Walking Football squads had mixed fortunes at this year's IWFF World Championship in Sweden.
The International Walking Football Federation event was staged in Malmo and three teams from Northern Ireland took part (Over 60s, Over 65s and Over 70s).
The achievements of each squad were as mixed as the Swedish weather, which was a mixture of rain and occasional sunshine.
The Over 65s had a tremendous tournament, reaching the semi-finals but losing out 1-0 to eventual section winners England.
It was a bittersweet moment as they had claimed a magnificent 3-2 victory over the same England side in the group phase.
The semi-final was the only game they lost, having registered wins over Sweden and Poland as well as England at the group stage along with draws against Norway, Wales and Australia.
A second 2-0 win over Poland in the quarter-finals had held the tantalising prospect of going all the way but it was not to be.
The Over 65s goalscorers at the tournament were: Ken Armstrong (three), Jim Gorman (three), Roy Hawthorne (three), Jackie Fenton (two, including a penalty).
The Over 70s just fell short of qualifying for the quarter-finals by a single point, having gained victories over Australia, France and Wales and a draw with Gibraltar in the group stage.
Their performance in the France game in particular was impressive as they recovered from 2-0 down to win 4-2.
What cost them a quarter-final place was conceding a goal with almost the last kick of the game in a 3-2 defeat to England and similarly in the 1-1 draw against Gibraltar.
The Over 70s scorers were: David Lemon (10, including three penalties), Drew Mearns (two), Ian Moore and David Marcus (one apiece).
Meanwhile, the Over 60s had a tough opening day, losing three of their four games, which left them with a mountain to climb if they were to reach the top four in a group of 11 teams and secure a place in the quarter-finals.
A great deal of pride was restored the next day with a gutsy 0-0 draw against eventual section winners England and a pleasing performance in a 2-2 draw with a very good French side.
Matchday three started with a disappointing loss to Poland but once again recovery came with a battling 4-4 draw against a very physical Norway team.
It was a great performance against the Norwegians. Northern Ireland clawed their way back after going 2-0 down in the game, which also featured an amazing triple save from goalkeeper Ray Ritchie.
The Over 60s scorers were: Anthony Cafolla (five, including four penalties), Jim Rea (three), Michael Mahood (one penalty), Ian Bustard and Danny McCann (one apiece).
Manager Gary Barclay said he was proud of the effort put in by all the players, who gave their all in every game.
He said the Northern Ireland teams punched above their weight but the tournament illustrated the challenges that exist at international level.
Barclay also said he was confident the teams will continue to grow and develop.
