The whistle blows, the match has started, anticipation in the air for what is to come, settled by the first points of the day coming from the boot of Pete Hoskins. After what can only be described as 10 minutes of back and forth, Holywood claw back to 3-3. Yet again Hoskins puts Civil Service back into the lead. After a period of sustained pressure from Holywood and some terrific Service defense, Holywood get a penalty and convert to bring it back to a draw.
[youtube E32YNhNSpHQ]
I thought I had come to the green fields of Stormont to watch a very open game but instead the spectators got an all out classic grudge match with possession and territory vital. Yet again Peter Hoskins slots a kick to take Service back into the lead. On the stroke of half time comes what seemed a devastating blow for the men in white, with a red card for Trevor ‘the scrapper’ McDowell. Holywood fail to capitalize from the resulting penalty. The half time whistle and with now just 14 men a relief for Civil Service. Half time score 9-6 service.
CLICK HERE For Match Action Shots
The atmosphere had been severely dampened and spectators where left wondering what was to come. Alas a mighty roar from the Service men to start the second half inspired confidence and enthusiasm. This was quickly dulled as an injury had left Civil Service with just 13 men but in true Service spirit Pete ‘golden boots’ Hoskins slots two more kicks in a matter of minutes bringing the score to 15-6.
After several minutes of solid defense a fantastic strip from Services’ own linguist Gareth Bond sets Moore on the counter attack. Will Holywood buckle, only time will tell? The usual JC trailing the oppositions shorts to his ankles in an attempted tackle gives a glowing bean as buttocks are presented, providing some humor to the tension filled afternoon. The match is nearly over the tension is high and support is crucial, with five minutes to go Holywood get a chance at goal and put it wide. A bellow of cheers is heard from the balcony. This only intensifies as Holywood miss yet another kick.
Dare I say it this looks like a day for the 13 warriors in white. With no more than two minutes to go the atmosphere on the balcony is ecstatic, Guinness is flowing, cheers being sung (more along the abusive lines but its all fun and games). At last the final whistle Service have done it, the number is 13 the colour is white and the day is golden. My man of the match has to go to Gareth Bond for some fantastic defensive work when it mattered most. ITS GOT TO BE SERVICE…..
For the Mini Excellence Section you will have to join the club website CLICK HERE
