George Bishop scores stunning double as UKAF make winning start to Kentish Cup defence

The men's UK Armed Forces football team have begun the defence of their Kentish Cup crown with a 3-1 win over the Dutch Armed Forces in Slough.

A thumping double from RAF midfielder George Bishop inspired the UKAF victory as head coach Joey Collins looks to continue the success from previous campaigns.

This year's captain, Michael Campbell, got them off to a good start with a clever finish, but despite Bishop's double, the Dutch caused some nervy moments after Jimmy De Haas scored.

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The British hosts were the favourites ahead of kick-off, but the Kentish Cup nearly began with a surprise when Cpl Balk smashed a free-kick off the post from 20 yards.

From there, the first half was plain sailing for Collins' UKAF team. A mix-up between two Dutch defenders led to the opening goal as the ball bounced through for Campbell and the RAF skipper used all of his experience to position his body over the ball and fire his strike into the bottom corner.

UKAF may have felt they should have been awarded a penalty moments later when Dutch goalkeeper Lansink seemed to foul Ryan Kenyon, but officials played on and Elliot Holmes dragged his shot wide.

The second goal wouldn't be far away though and it was strike to remember from Bishop, who was making his Kentish Cup debut.

A cross from Phil Bright was headed away but only as far as Bishop, who proved his credentials as one of the rising stars of RAF and UKAF football with a thumping half-volley into the top corner.

In the second half, UKAF's hunt for a third goal met determined Dutch defending as Holmes' goalbound shot was cleared off the line.

Moments later, a clumsy trip from Alfie Rogers allowed the visitors a way back into the game from the penalty save. Navy goalkeeper Laurence McCormick did incredibly well to tip the spot-kick onto the post, but De Haas was relieved to score the rebound.

The second half saw a renewed push from the Dutch, but ultimately UKAF's quality would shine through and it was Bishop who was the catalyst.

His second goal was another powerful shot from the edge of the shot with his weaker left foot, showing that he has the ability to control games at this level.

The win means UKAF will retain the Kentish Cup if they can beat the French on Friday.