Atherstone Ball Game winner describes historic event as hardest ...

22 Feb 2023

Kieran Marshall said he was 'buzzing' after emerging victorious from the 823rd Atherstone Ball Game. After two hours of blood, sweat and bruises, he and teammates Lewis Cooper and Scott Wright were declared the winners when the whistle was blown near William Hill.

Thousands took to the streets to watch or participate in the historic event on Shrove Tuesday (February 21). A number of businesses closed for the afternoon as they prepared for the centuries-old battle on Long Street.

A sea of bodies fought for the coveted ball with punches thrown and clothes torn during the chaotic community event. Hundreds of men fiercely battled before the ball was snatched by a group of locals who decided to hold out in the doorway to William Hill.

READ MORE:Atherstone Ball Game winner announced as historic event attracts huge crowds

After countless waves of challengers failed to dislodge the Atherstone boys, the horn was sounded. A chorus of cheers echoed up and down Long Street to celebrate the battered heroes who had somehow held on to the now-deflated ball.

Kieran was elated to have secured the win but described the historic event as the 'hardest game in the world.' He went on to say that he could not have won without the support of his teammates, who he described as the 'punchers.'

Kieran Marshall secured victory at the Atherstone Ball Game 2023

Kieran Marshall secured victory at the Atherstone Ball Game 2023 (Image: CoventryLive/Latifa Yedroudj)

Kieran told CoventryLive: “It is probably the hardest game in the world when you are down there on the bottom. We made it look easy this year. Obviously, we had the lads up on the top, the punchers, no one could get through so we had it easy down there compared to other years.”

Speaking after his victory, Kieran added: “I am absolutely buzzing. It is something we always wanted to do and to win it with all your mates around you, obviously, you can all get no better than that.”

His win marked the end to five years of dominance from local rivals Grendon. Cheered on by friends and family, Kieran paraded his trophy through the town as hundreds gathered to celebrate at the Atherstone Conservative Club.

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