Bittersweet day at CI for 06

HMAS Newcastle took on teams from Christmas Island in a day of sport recently, including a traditional game of touch football, above left and the much anticipated soccer game above right. Photos by ABPH Kaye Adams

By ABPH Kaye Adams
A recent sports day on Christmas Island held both victory and defeat for HMAS Newcastle.
In sweltering humidity and 30 degree heat, a series of sports events were played throughout the day, including netball, soccer, softball, touch football, cricket and basketball.

The CI local women’s netball team, challenged the Newcastle girls to a friendly match.

Newcastle started strongly scoring the first goal, but CI showed their prowess as an established team, and quickly took control of the game, winning 22 - 11.

The CI softball team also displayed their team tactics defeating Newcastle 19 - 5, by taking immediate control of the game, with big hits and smart plays on the bases.

At touch football, Newcastle loaned five players to help CI fill their team with sufficient numbers.

The game was fast paced and action packed, with new players rotating through to give everyone time on the field. The game ended with a Newcastle victory of 9 - 5.

Last event of the day was the eagerly anticipated soccer game, with two exceptional teams that were both, so far, undefeated for the year.

The Newcastle team recently played at HMAS Stirling, where they were triumphant in a round-robin game against HMA Ships Success, Arunta and Warramunga.

CI put their big guns in the first half to keep Newcastle on their toes. At the end of the first 25 minute half, the score was even, nil all.

In the second half, CI positioned their more experienced players, but within the first five minutes, Newcastle scored the first goal.

With victory in their sights, Newcastle took control of the game with strong defence. They were so confident in their win, that they good naturedly allowed the CI referee to continue the second half for an extra 10 minutes, before taking the win, 1 - 0.

ABCSO Cahill was named the player of the match for his superb winning goal, and his lead in many of the attacks.

All CI teams were presented with plaques from HMAS Newcastle as a thank-you for a great challenge and an enjoyable day out.

The sports day was topped off with a function at the Golden Bosun.

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