The stakes couldn’t be higher. The British Army men’s football team is gearing up for what they’re calling “two cup finals” as they prepare to take on the RAF in the opening clash of the 2025 Inter Services tournament. With a new coaching set-up and high expectations, all eyes are on Captain Al Brown, could he be the secret weapon to bringing home the silverware?
A Battle on the Pitch
The Army kicks off their Inter Services campaign at Croud Meadow, Shrewsbury, where they’ll face last year’s champions, the RAF. It’s a daunting opener, but the squad has been sharpening their skills in Aldershot, preparing for what promises to be an intense encounter.
Sergeant Craig Stevenson, the team’s captain, knows exactly what’s at stake.
“Inter Services games are always fiercely contested,” said the defender, who made his mark last year by scoring against the Royal Navy in Portsmouth. “We see it as two cup finals. The RAF will see it the same way. We’re ready to give 100% in both matches.”
The Captain’s Influence
Captain Al Brown has already made a strong impact since taking the reins. Early-season victories have injected confidence into the squad, but he knows that Inter Services football is a different beast altogether.
“The other two services are playing some really good football at the moment,” Brown admitted. “They’re well-drilled, they’ve got strong coaches, and they’re tactically sharp. We know it won’t be easy.”
But for Brown, the key to victory isn’t just about strategy, it’s about heart.
“As soon as the boys step over that white line, it’s about more than just tactics. It’s about desire, effort, and that relentless work rate. If we can combine that with great football, we’ve got a real chance.”
The Road Ahead
With two monumental clashes ahead, the Army squad knows that every pass, tackle, and goal will count. The pressure is on, but so is the belief.
As the countdown begins, one thing is certain: the British Army is ready for battle. Now, it’s time to prove it on the pitch.
