Position: Goalkeeper

Debut vs: Colchester, at Worldnet '98

Appearances: 52 (1)

Goals: 1

Chris Towell was there right at the beginning for Worldnet '98. However, he was not part of the squad that met up for that famous training game at Stennent's Field, Trimley, which was the first time everybody met. This was because he had not yet put his name down due to lack of fitness, and age. However, when Andy Clarkson (the alleged Norwich Fan) dropped out, Chris stepped forward and never looked back.

His blinding appearances at Worldnet '98 earned him the nickname 'The cat' obviously for his 'cat-like' agility in goal. He played all the games at that tournament, except for the Penalty shoot-out competition where Stuart Williams deputised between the sticks because of Chris' broken rib.

At the woeful Land ut Gods '99, Chris scored his one and only goal. It goes to show the quality of finishing on that day when your only goal is scored by your Goalkeeper, coming on as a substitute up-front.

Chris went on to make 51 starts and one appearance as a substitute, a record that was only recently beaten. Chris also holds another record, as the oldest player ever to make an appearance for Punch Drunk FC.

Since his retirement from playing in December, he often comes along to watch. His reason for retiring? "The aches and pains are just not worth it and my performance today (vs Luton) was also clearly saying that enough is enough." And that was the end of Chris' playing days. If you ever come along to a Punch Drunk game, Chris can be easily spotted, he's the old one who shouts a lot.

Tributes from other PDFC players

"I can honestly say that without a few bollockings I have received from Chris over the years I wouldn't have so many goals for PDFC" - Martin Beecroft.

"Very sad that Chris is hanging up the old goalie gloves, but when it's causing you pain to play, it has to be the right decision. I'm sure you all agree that he has been a fantastic player for us and an inspiration to all who've seen him play." - Brian Durrant

"Thanks Chris, for the good times and camaraderie, we will definitely miss your presence in goal." - Barnaby Burch

"Feeling a bit gobsmacked over the retirement of chris....(dont do it man)..surely we can build some super support structure for chris so he can play on...." - Dan Parsons

"I'm also shocked by the retirement of Chris, when I saw you last season you were great!" - Chris Glover

"Chris, we'll miss you for your constructive criticism and much needed keeping expertise" - Paul Campbell