’Goal!’ cried Clint, though it was more of a surprise than a statement.

’Yes!’ I shouted as I punched the air with delight.

’Goal’! Announced Steve and he pointed to the centre spot.

’I’ve scored!’ said Clint, although this time with a little more conviction and he did a little hop, with one arm raised in the air! ’I’ve scored!’ he said again and did a little jig.

This was it! This was the big one. The Subbuteo World Cup 1981. And Clint, the lowly Belgium was one-nil up against pre-tournament favourites, Dale and his ’Boyzees’ the mighty Peru.

Like a championship boxer recovering from a first-round knockdown, Dale recovered his composure and dug deep. He battered Clint’s defence. Shot after shot, pass and cross after pass and cross but to no avail. Clint’s defence held! Eventually, the tinny sound of the half time bell rang and the score was still one-nil. Was a World Cup upset on the cards…?