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Alex Gaskell gets Blue

Alex Gaskell (LS ’06 & Th ‘09) won his Blue for Football representing Cambridge University as they took on Oxford in the 131^st Varsity match held at Cambridge Utd’s Abbey Stadium on 8^th March 2015. In a frustrating and at times scrappy 1-1 draw, Oxford went on to win on penalties, which secured the bragging rights for another year. The annual Varsity match is the longest running fixture in world football, having been played every year since 1873, with breaks only for the First and Second World Wars.

 

‘Gaining my ‘Blue’ is an achievement I am extremely proud of, and one clearly recognised and held in high regard by students and fellows at the university. The beginning of the match itself was one of the most nervous moments I have experienced in my life.  There is a strong feeling of responsibility when representing the university, with more than personal pride at stake on the pitch. Being involved in a varsity match is a tremendous experience that I will remember for the rest of my life.’

 

Walking out onto the pitch was a sensational moment, with an overwhelming sense of occasion combined with nervous pressure. The whole match passed in a bit of a blur, and I struggle to discern individual details. However, I clearly remember the energy and high intensity that was ever present on the pitch. The game itself was quite scrappy, probably as the result of nerves from both teams. I had an intense personal battle with the two oxford centre halves, one of which was a very physical and athletic player. Throughout the pitch unpredictably challenges were more forceful than in a normal game, spurred on by the energy of the crowd. The nerves are extremely draining on the pitch, and I was cramping up mid-way though the second half despite normally having no problem completing 90 minsutes,  I was substituted late in the second half. I was disappointed to be taken off and was ready to take a penalty. Having said that, I was partially relieved not to have to step up and take one. The disappointment of the loss did not really hit immediately. We were all so tired and drained that we were too busy catching our breath and too absorbed in the penalties to fully feel the loss. I remember after the game we grabbed some food and a quick drink at the ground, then headed into a bar in town for some drinks before heading out. It was at the bar that the disappointment fully sunk in, as the adrenaline from the game subsided to be replaced with exhaustion and frustration.

Originally Written: 29-Jul-2015 13:49, Last Updated: 29-Jul-2015 14:49