A wonderful football game
Published:Tuesday | November 9, 2010 | 12:00 AM
The Editor, Sir;
On November 6, I was taught a major lesson in tenacity, fighting spirit, the never-say-die attitude of a true champion and I was overwhelmed.
As a St George's College old boy (class of '70), I was fortunate to attend the Manning Cup match between St GC and our North Street neighbour and rival, Kingston College at the Constant Spring Football Complex. Our Manning Cup clashes usually bring out past students of both schools in their numbers and regalia and November 6 was no different.
At half-time, Kingston College - through a brilliant, world-class free kick and two lapses by the St George's goalkeeper - were leading 3-0 and I was concerned that we would surrender bragging rights on North Street after nipping KC in the annual Roper Cup in August.
At half-time, I paid very close attention to the St George's coach, Neville 'Bertis' Bell, and his team, who appeared to be quite composed, relaxed and seemingly not worried in the least about the scoreline.
Quality football
Lo and behold when the second half began, I witnessed a display of quality football and the qualities of a champion that I have not seen for a very long time, as St George's fought back tenaciously to tie the score 3-3 and then score the winner in the dying moments of the game, ironically by Rohan Roye, a former Kingston College player who, earlier in the season, transferred to St George's and was eligible to play for the team.
It was astounding! For the obvious discipline and composure displayed by the players, kudos must go to the coach, Neville Bell; the team's # 10 player who came on at half-time and engineered the team's victory and the entire squad of players who proved that 'in unity there is strength'.
All in all, it was a wonderful game of football and a pity that one side had to lose.
In the same breath, remember your motto KC - 'The brave may fall but never yield'.
I am, etc.,
MICHAEL BARNETT
Braemar Avenue, Kingston 10