Stephen “Falcy” Falconer, one of the best-known names in Isle of Man soccer circles, has made a sensational start to his international walking football career, netting four times on his full England debut.
The MFX-sponsored midfielder has just returned to the Island after playing against Malta at a tournament held on the Mediterranean Island earlier this month, which they won. He scored in each of four games, twice for the over 60s’ side and twice for the over 65s’, finishing as the tournament’s joint top scorer.
Falcy’s due to earn his second cap against Italy later in May but, before then, he’s also been asked to represent Greater Manchester’s walking football team, at a county level match on May 12th.
“It’s been a whirlwind these last couple of months and I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to play so frequently,” he said. “The regular travelling to and from the Island to play in matches and to attend England training sessions is very expensive.
“The support from MFX has made it all possible and this is now opening up many more walking football opportunities for me,” continued Falcy, who plays alongside the ex-Manchester United and Nottingham Forest striker, Peter Davenport.
“The tournament in Malta was a great example of the camaraderie around the sport. Yes, it’s competitive and we all want to win but walking football is just as much about promoting good health and well-being,” added Falcy, who has now been invited to play for Kingsmaid in the Greater Manchester area walking football league.
MFX Managing Director, May Hooper, said it was great to see Falcy making an immediate impact on his England debut. “What a fantastic start he has made! To see someone from the Isle of Man making such a big impression in England colours makes Falcy’s achievements extra special. All of us at MFX hope this will be the first of many more international caps,” May added.