A GWAUN-Cae-Gurwen man is celebrating his 50th year of playing football and has yet to receive a booking in his career.

Phillip Rees, 66, of Crescent Road, has been playing senior football since he was a teenager in 1968.

In 50 years, representing four sides, the winger turned full back has never picked up a yellow card.

Mr Rees spent has spent his entire career in the Neath & District League, turning out for Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen, Ynysmeudwy Athletic, Cwmtwrch Wanderers and Clydach Sports, and says he has no intention of stopping just yet.

“I don’t see myself hanging up my boots anytime soon.

“I am hoping to play for Clydach Sports again next year, but if they don’t run a third team then I may have to look for a new side as I’m not quite good enough for the seconds anymore.

“I started playing in 1968 for GCG and played for them for 11 years, then I went to Ynysmeudwy from 1979-1984, then on to Cwmtwrch Wanderers from 1984-2011, and since 2011 I have been playing for Clydach Sports.

“I enjoy the social side of the game obviously, but I just love football first and foremost. I have always loved it and just wanted to get involved which is why I started playing.”

During his time playing, Mr Rees has scored 705 goals for his sides, including bagging 150 goals during his five year stint with Ynysmeudwy Athletic, however, not once has he picked up a booking.

“I have got a bit of a temper off the pitch,” he explained, “but not when it comes to football, I think I just enjoy playing too much to get riled up on the pitch.

“Even if I don’t manage to continue playing next season, I will keep a keen interest in football around here.

“I often go and watch Cwmamman United or Ammanford when I’m not playing and am looking forward to catching some of their games next season.”