This Wednesday afternoon Rayners Lane football club hosted an inter services match between the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy under twenty threes sides. The first match day of the competition. With free entry into the ground, attracting more than a handful of visitors. Giving groundhopers a chance to tick off a stadium which they previously may not have visited.
Before the match. A payable bar was open for spectators to purchase their pre game drink. Soft drink or alcoholic options available, catering to all needs. Areas to consume available inside the club house or on the terrace. Contradicting last years event, where unlimited food and drink was prepared for all attendees. At no additional cost including a programme to take as a souvenir. As the tie drew ever closer. Fans made their way outside, taking their place pitch side. Standing areas and seating options boasting unrestricted views. A rendition of the British national anthem played before kick off.
On the pitch. The Royal Air Force kicked off in their sky blue shirts. Having a long ball leathered out wide, taken down tight to the touch line. Before a hoof from the opposition sent it just past before half way. Wearing a royal blue strip. A backwards header handed the air force the first chance of the game. Crossing into the box, booted away. Blowing his whistle. The referee rounded up screams of handball, by the Royal Air Force. Who had a free kick find it’s way into a crowded area. Threading a through pass, the navy had their opening opportunity. Pumped away by the keeper in orange. Controversy occurred when the referee blew for a foul on the edge of the box. Teams awaiting a decision, as the official spoke to his lines person. A free kick the outcome. Scuffing a shot. The Royal Navy missed the simplest of scoring chances from six yards. Driving an attempt across goal, airforce were able to counter attack. Ending in disappointment. Shortly followed by a superb delivery. Darting narrowly past the advancing player.
Setting sail on the second half. The navy got us underway. However, it was the airforce who had the first chance. One tow passing playing them up the field. Finding their attack end in a corner. An attempt at goal by the navy climaxed a passage of back and forth football. Flinging out for a goal kick, after being hit from an awkward angle. Heading backwards. The Royal Navy created problems for themselves. Leaving the keeper to make a catch, which could have lead to an injury. Reducing the navy to ten, a reckless rampant challenge earned the player a red card. Game ending goalless.
On a negative note. Certain members of the royal airforce team let their side down. Constant abuse towards the opposition, using unpleasant and homophobic language. Underlining the problems which are around in the services.
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