Eight Goals and a Rematch Already on the Minds - 863 vs 301 Post Rememberence Day Football Match

After the morning’s Remembrance Sunday duties, cadets from 863 (Thurston) and 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Squadrons met on the football pitch. The morning had brought both squadrons together to pay their respects. The afternoon gave them a different way to spend time together, with a ball between them and every reason to give chase.

With Bailey Morris captaining Thurston and Glass making early saves in goal, 863 struck first. Bury answered, and the game found its rhythm. Thurston would build up a head of steam, Bury would close the gaps, and someone would have to make another run. Just one goal separated the sides at half-time. Jepp went on to score all three of Thurston’s goals, completing the hat-trick from the penalty spot.

After the break, Rowland took over in goal, Glass moved outfield and Giles joined the action. Eastwood kept tearing up the line, Jepp kept looking for room to cross, and Bury kept coming back at them. An equaliser and a quick follow-up put 301 ahead. Thurston had two chances from the spot. Bury’s keeper saved one, and the other sailed over.

The eighth goal came in the 50th minute, and Bury’s defence held firm from there to seal a 5–3 win for 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Squadron. A great Post Rememberence Day Football Match.

You could see the pull of competition in every run down the line, every effort to get back and cover, and every time someone called for the ball again. Both sides gave each other a game worth playing. At the final whistle, that same energy turned into good sportsmanship.

Pilot Officer Ryan congratulated his Bury side on their persistence, and cadets from both squadrons were already looking forward to the 2027 rematches.

Well played, 301. See you on the pitch in 2027.