NOSTALGIA was the name of the game at Broadhall Way on Friday night. Heroes of the Conference winning Boro side of a decade ago were joined by other former favourites to take on an Arsenal Celebrity XI. It was perhaps ironic that on the weekend the curren

NOSTALGIA was the name of the game at Broadhall Way on Friday night.

Heroes of the Conference winning Boro side of a decade ago were joined by other former favourites to take on an Arsenal Celebrity XI.

It was perhaps ironic that on the weekend the current crop of players failed to make the top five, the old brigade met up to reminisce about their 1996 title success.

The Boro Legends featured a host of familiar faces including Des Gallagher, Dave Venables, Steve Berry, Gary Crawshaw, Martin Gittings and Neil Trebble.

Barry Hayles and Efe Sodje were unable to play due to injury but still attended the night.

The Gunners contained the likes of celebrity gardener Tommy Walsh (pictured above in the dug-out) and actor Ralf Little.

It was Boro who nearly drew first blood when Tony Lynch's cross-shot was tipped onto the bar.

The celebs then scored twice in four minutes to go 2-0 up through Rob Gee and Tony Murtagh.

Boro soon pulled one back when Richard Nugent stabbed home following a scramble from a corner and were unlucky a minute later when Trebble's header hit the post.

They were level by the break though as Crawshaw scored from close range after a neat turn.

Both sides changed goalkeepers at half time, Walsh filling the goal for the celebs and Richard Wilmot replacing Gallagher.

Man of the match Trebble volleyed Boro into the lead from a Mark Duckett cross but Alan Paris headed an equaliser for the celebs on 70 minutes.

There were lighter moments in the closing stages, Comet editor Darren Isted and Boro manager Noel Blackwell both having a run out.

And Walsh showed his ability by saving well from Corey Browne when the pacy striker was sent through on goal.