By Jeremy Mogi – EM TV Sport, Port Moresby
In commemoration of the Centenary Anniversary of the Christmas truce of 1914, where German and British soldiers, put aside their weapons to play football, the British High commission organised small futsal matches between the different diplomatic missions in Port Moresby.
High commissions from New Zealand and Australia, the American embassy and the United Nations, and a small PNG contingent, were all present.
The concept was to have as many different countries playing in their national kits to celebrate international solidarity, friendship and peace through football. And while the rivalry was friendly, the games were intensely competitive.
The British team showed their flair throughout and thrashed New Zealand 10-0 to open the matches. Aaron Sexton, a professional player, in fine form, scoring seven of his team’s goals.
New Zealand’s Departmenty High commissioner, Nicci Stilwell was also present with members of FC Port Moresby also invited to provide friendly competition to the other teams and gain valuable game time.
The event staged was to commemorate the historical time during the First World War when the British and German troops, put down their weapons, and called truces along much of the frontline across Northern France and Belgium.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=M8wHYDAyOUA%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0
