Way to go Weasel! Fans pay tribute to Glovers hero

ONE of Yeovil's adopted sons was given a final standing ovation by thousands of fans as he donned the green and white colours of Yeovil Town FC for the last time.

Although Darren Way hails from Plymouth and had an early career with Norwich, his commitment to the Glovers over the past decade has endeared him to many fans.

Huish Park rose to its feet on Saturday, as the 6,664-strong crowd applauded his 89th minute entrance to his benefit match against a Manchester United XI.

They cheered his every touch as he exchanged passes with Glovers manager and best friend Terry Skiverton, who was brought on two minutes earlier.

Way, known as Weasel for his hard working attitude, was forced to retire as a player earlier this year after failing to overcome injuries sustained in a two-vehicle collision in December 2008.

Though the 30-year-old has stepped down as a midfielder, he will continue as a coach at the club.

Before the game. fans paid tribute to his career and spoke of their excitement at seeing a Premiership outfit in town. Many hoped to see Red Devils legend and reserve team manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer take to the field. The Norwegian, who scored the winner in the 1999 UEFA Champions League Final, was among the star attractions, but allowed his young side do the work in the 3-2 win for Yeovil.

Gavin Cheetham of Yeovil said: "I think Darren has been an exciting player to watch over the years and his never-say-die attitude has warmed him to the fans.

"Yeovil Town is a good family club and the players are down to earth which helps the fans relate to them more when they are on the pitch. Darren has always given 100 per cent and I think a lot of people have come to support him because of that."

The Hart family of Sherborne swapped their usual view from the home terraces to stand in the away end to cheer on Manchester United.

Gavin Hart said: "It was unusual watching the game from the other end of the pitch, but my heart still lies with Manchester and I wanted to watch it with my fellow supporters. I think it is great that so many people are supporting Darren."

Kevin Chard, a season ticket holder for 10 years, said: "Darren has played a massive part in the recent success of the club and has been a great servant.

"It was really sad what happened, but taking football away, the most important thing was that he survived."

Di Potticary of Street said: "I think Darren is amazing and has done a lot in the community. He is a good ambassador for football."

Jerry Jenkins of Blandford said: "He is one of the better players we have had at the club and it was so sad that his career got cut short because of the accident. That is the trouble with football though as the players have a short career. That is why we are glad to support him."

His wife, Veronica said: "I am glad Darren Way has stayed on to help the club. We are here to support him as we think he was a fantastic player.

To view more pictures from the match go to www.thisissomerset.co.uk/darrenway

match report: pages 102 & 103