Football

Royal Navy deliver classy performance to beat British Army and win Inter Services at Fratton Park

The Royal Navy men's football team have won their second Inter Services title in three years after a 2-0 victory over the British Army at Fratton Park.

The Army knew they had to win to retain the title they won 12 months ago, but a dominant Navy team was too tough of a task for the soldiers.

David Vincent's penalty and Olly Ward's brilliant breakaway goal gave the Navy a deserved victory and title triumph.

Around 2,000 spectators were in attendance at the home of Portsmouth Football Club, and many were roaring on the Navy team in white.

The Senior Service created better chances in the game, with Ward missing a big opportunity in the first half and Army goalkeeper Luke Cairney making good saves from Dylan Holgate and Jake Walker.

Holgate was a problem for the Army defence all night on the left wing, and it was determined running and pace that led to the penalty decision. Leigh Phillips will claim there was minimal contact, but there was enough in the referee's view to award the penalty.

Vincent, who ran the show in midfield on what could be his final Navy appearance, stepped up to tuck the ball away from 12 yards.

This meant the Army needed to score twice to keep their title hopes alive, but in truth, a second goal for the Navy seemed more likely. A long clearance from captain Dan Kerr was capitalised on by Ward with a sensational first touch that left him the simple task of finishing past Cairney.

Late on, Army full-back Clay Bryant talked his way into a second yellow card, but by then, the game and the title had long gone for the visitors.