Old Rules Magic at Renishaw: Dave Collett Triumphs in ESA Old School Circuit Round 5 and the Old Subbuteo Challenge Cup

Sunday, 11th May 2025 – The picturesque village of Renishaw played host to a truly special occasion on the ESA calendar, as Round 5 of the ESA Old School Circuit took centre stage. But this wasn’t just any round, this year, it was proudly integrated into the prestigious Old Subbuteo Challenge Cup, the flagship annual old rules tournament, expertly organised by Andrew Forster-Fake and his dedicated team.

Left, Runner up Tony Banks and right, Event Winner Dave Collett

With 22 top players from across England in attendance, the competition was fierce, friendships were renewed, and the flicking was as fine as ever.

Group Stage Drama

Players were split into six groups (four groups of four and two of three), where early form would set the tone for the knockout rounds. Group A saw Simon Goodman of Surrey Saracens put on a masterclass, finishing unbeaten and without conceding. Tony Banks (London SC) showed his usual flair to top Group B, while Andy Henly (Leicester Foxes) pushed hard to finish in second place, and in Group C no one could stop old rules icon Dave Collett, who swept all before him.

Over in Groups D and E, Simon McMurray (Wolverhampton) and Jason Christopher (Solent) both emerged with perfect records. Local favourite Colin Fletcher (Renishaw) did the home crowd proud by topping Group F.

Into the Knockouts

The Round of 16 delivered nail-biting Subbuteo, with wins for Jeremy Boothman, Tony Banks, Simon Goodman, and Jason Christopher. Shootout tension added to the drama as Colin Fletcher, Simon McMurray, and Ian Sharp (Yorkshire) all edged through under pressure.

Quarter-Final Showdowns

The pick of the quarter-finals was the blockbuster clash between defending circuit champion Simon Goodman and London’s Tony Banks. After a tense 0-0 draw, it was Tony who held his nerve in the shootout to knock out the favourite.

Elsewhere, Ian Sharp edged past Fletcher on shots, Jason Christopher progressed in style, and Dave Collett delivered yet another clinical performance.

Semi-Finals: Class and Grit

In the semis, Tony Banks continued his dream run with a gritty 1-0 win over Ian Sharp. Meanwhile, Dave Collett proved once again why he’s a legend of the game, dispatching Jason Christopher to book his place in yet another final.

A Final to Remember

The Renishaw crowd was treated to a classic final, Tony Banks, the giant-killer, versus Dave Collett, the enduring master. It was a tense and tactical affair, locked at 0-0 after full time. But in the shootout, Dave's calmness shone through as he sealed the victory and added both the Round 5 title and the coveted Old Subbuteo Challenge Cup to his already glittering trophy cabinet.

Plate Competition

Meanwhile, in the Plate competition, a league format determined the finalists. It was a close affair, but Andrew Forster-Fake capped off his day of organisation with a well-earned 1-0 win over clubmate Trevor Allen to lift the Plate trophy.

Thanks and Final Thoughts

The ESA extends a heartfelt thank you to Andrew Forster-Fake and his team for delivering a seamless, friendly, and highly competitive event. The Old Subbuteo Challenge Cup continues to set the standard for old rules Subbuteo, and this year’s integration into the ESA circuit made for an unforgettable day.

Thank you to everyone who attended and supported England’s premier old rules tournament, we look forward to seeing you at the next round!

Full Results below