Football: Officers Mess Defeat Sergeants Mess
At the Goose Goslings Field on Friday night [Apr 19], the Officers Mess of the Bermuda Regiment defeated the WOs & Sgts Mess 3 – 2 in their annual football match.
It was an emotional win for the Officers Mess as the match was the first to be played after the death of Major Christian Wheddon, who was a big football fan. Major Wheddon was recognized by a moment of silence and all participants in the match wore black tap in his honour.
Fluent ball movement and calm pacing meant the Officers controlled possession for majority of the first half. The Sgts were not to be outmatched and defensive challenges were often effective against the Officers’ assault. Eventually, the flurry of white jerseys in the box was enough to cause a headache for the defense; leading to a deflected own goal originating from the boot of Capt. Jobst. Officers 1 – Sgts 0
Morale was high on the northern side of the pitch and the Officers were determined to maintain momentum. The Sgts decided it was time to add a bit of pace to the pitch and brought on their smaller, faster players.
The Officers attempted to out-muscle the smaller players, eventually leading to foul trouble and a penalty being awarded to the Sgts. Colour Sergeant Hunt was a clear choice for the shot and OCdt. Owen would be put to the test. A ripping fireball in the center of the goal landed snugly in Owen’s arms and the Officers were back on track.
Consistent offensive pressure from the Officers and a building physical game led to a free kick being awarded just outside the Sgts’ 18 yard box. This time Sgt. Ambrosio’s safe hands would be tested. A swift boot from Lt. Smith landed in the top of the net to boost the Officers to a 2-0 lead. Just as quickly as it started, the halftime whistle was blown and each side was off for a brief regroup. Officers 2 – Sgts 0
The Sgts began to play the wings to their advantage and a well-placed cross gave CSgt. Hunt the opportunity to get on the scoreboard. Without hesitation, a strong volley sunk into the back of the net; causing the crowd to erupt. Officers 2 – Sgts 1
The Sgts were not done yet; this time playing the center of the pitch with direct attacks. The Officers fought with valiant defense, but the force of CSgt. Williams’ shot would be uncontested as it powered its way into the back of the net. Officers 2 – Sgts 2
With the field level and fatigue setting in, both sides would have to act fast to break the tie. For the remaining third of the match, the Sgts pressed the offensive and sent most of their team forward. This kept the Officers on their toes, while also affording a few counter attacks. With only stoppage time remaining, a field-length goal-kick from OCdt. Owen placed the ball perfectly for Major Julian Wheddon to beat the defensive sweeper and place the ball squarely in the back of the net. Officers 3 – Sgts 2
The Sgts knew they would have one last shot at goal, however the defensive prowess of the Officers’ back line meant nothing was coming through. With the final kick from OCdt. Owen, the ref. had seen enough and the whistle was blown.
The Officers claimed victory with mere seconds to play. Major Julian Wheddon was even more satisfied having scored the winning goal in a match dedicated to his brother. When the dust had settled, there was nothing more than cheers and smiles from both sides; with the banter building for next year’s match already.
