11 November 2008

'C' Company Vs 'B' Company, in West Ham Park, 1915

"This match ended in a victory for 'C' Company by 3-2.

Playing with a strong wind, 'C' Coy tried hard to score, but all their efforts were futile, largely through the fact that the ball was practically uncontrollable by the violent wind.

Half time arrived with no score.

The second half opened with a smart attack on 'B' Company's goal, which was largely repulsed but eventually a nice opening was afforded 2nd Lt Page, who shot feebly, but sufficiently hard to register the first goal for 'C' Company.

This seemed to serve as a stimulant to 'B' Company and from the kick off 'C' Company's Back miskicked and Humphries fastened one on the leather and scored an equalising goal.

Within five minutes of this success, a melee in front of goal provided an opportunity for Webb who gave 'B' Company the lead.

Following this reverse, 'C' Company kept up a prolonged attack and the goalkeeper allowed a shot from Winter to pass through his hands. This success followed by another as Gillman with a splendid drive registered the winning goal for 'C' Company.

'C' Company: Pte Turner, Pte Buffett, Pte Wickers, Pte Gillman (or 'Gillmann'), Pte Dutton, 2nd Lt Holthusen, Pte Hemmings, Pte Plesants, 2nd Lt Page, Pte Winter, Pte Giess."

Sadly Brian Belton doesn't list his source.


If that teamsheet follows convention, then Pte Turner was the keeper. One possible is
17358 Private E H Turner

Lance Corporal J W Dutton, 18052, died on 15 May 1916 and is buried near Joseph Cooper.

I think it was Lt Holthusen who organised these sports games, but I'm not sure which one,
as two Holthusen brothers served in the 13th - one as OC Sigs and the other OC Medic.

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