FOOTBALL VICTORY FOR 152 (NORTH IRISH) REGIMENT

On Saturday 21^st April the Final of the Army Reserve Challenge Football Cup took place at Aldershot Military Stadium. This year the final was to be contested by 6^th Bn the Scottish Regiment (6 SCOTS) and 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLC.  

152 have high expectations when it comes to this competition, this being their seventh appearance in the last eight finals – an impressive record in this highly contested competition which has a distinctly high standard of football.

The team is managed by our Commanding Officer Lt Col Andrew Chambers, with the assistance of Sgt Paul McFarland. This is not an easy task as the family and work life of a reserve soldier have a big impact on player availability and team selection, however 12.00 hrs on the 21^st April saw the team ready for action, with players picked and tactics decided.

The team took an early lead through Cpl George Brown who scored after ten minutes; this was quickly followed by a second, Pte Ross Hunter and then a third, Cpl Ryan Crowe. The team were dominant and ended the first half THREE – NIL up. 

The second half followed in a similar vein with 152 Regiment controlling the game and frustrating 6 SCOTS’ game plan. With the lead they had they were able to sit back and hit the opposition on the break. This once more brought its rewards with Pte Ali Young adding a fourth goal midway through the half. However 6 SCOTS continued to play their part and refused to roll over and the scored a consolation goal late in the match to make the final score FOUR – ONE to the RLC. The celebrations could begin!

The Regiment is looking forward to the challenge of all comers in next season’s competition.