MIKE Sheron stole the show from Ali Benarbia as City's veterans proved themselves masters of the North West.

The 36-year-old pulled on a Blues' shirt once more and struck four goals as they won the North West heat of the Masters Football tournament at the M.E.N. Arena.

Algerian playmaker Benarbia's return to Manchester - where he spent two seasons at Maine Road under Kevin Keegan - had got City fans excited in the build-up.

But it was homegrown favourite Sheron, a part of the side who finished fifth in 1992 and 1993 under Peter Reid, who was the star man.

Sheron struck the winner as City beat Oldham 1-0 in a tight match to secure a place in the national finals at the NEC in Birmingham on September 7.

The former Blues striker was also on target as they dumped neighbours United out in the group stages of the competition, which is for players aged 35 and over.

Sheron, now youth team coach at Bury, said: "I've always enjoyed putting the ball in the net, so I was thrilled to get four for the tournament. It's always nice to score against United, too!

"It's over 10 years since I left City, but it's still a club close to my heart."

Benarbia, who will be 40 in October, flew in from his home in Qatar specially to take part in the Masters, and admitted to being surprised at just how competitive it was.

He said: "I was lucky I was playing with a good team, because I'm not sure I helped much! I haven't played football for a long time, and it's hard to be fit.

"I plan to come back in September for the finals.

City's squad included several familiar names, such as Eric Nixon, Ian Brightwell and Keith Curle.

By contrast, United's line-up was made up largely of ex-youth team players - such as Brian Carey, who went on to manage Wrexham. Many former Reds stars have been playing on a summer tour of Europe.

City beat the Reds 2-1 and Leeds 4-1 to reach the final, with Fitzroy Simpson earning the player-of-the-tournament award.

Oldham came back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Bolton before thrashing Blackburn 4-1.

But despite defeat in the final, Latics' legend Andy Ritchie enjoyed pulling on an Oldham shirt once more.

Ritchie said: "One or two, myself included, get to registration and think: What the hell are we doing this for again?

"But that soon dissipates and we enjoy the game."

For a full interview with Ali Benarbia get Tuesday's M.E.N. 
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