RAF U23s prepare for Inter Services with Cyprus training camp

The RAF U23s have been preparing for the upcoming Inter Services with a training camp in Cyprus.

All three matches of this year's championships will be broadcast live on the Forces News YouTube channel – starting with the RAF v Navy on 8 February.

In Cyprus, the RAF played two matches against the Army and RAF Cyprus teams – winning both by a 7-0 scoreline.

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The matches, as well as the training camp in more tropical conditions, have been good preparations for the team, according to head coach Sergeant Danny Bartley.

He said: "The weather's helped. Obviously, back home it's really cold so it would probably turn out that most of the games would be called off if we were at home.

"We've managed to have a couple of games, work on our final prep and just get the lads together.

"That's been the biggest plus for us, I think – the team bonding that the lads have had since they've been here."

Corporal Connor Balment, the team captain, added: "I think the training value has been really good for us.

"Set piece work, a few movements and different plays. There's been a good lot of passing as a team."

Looking ahead to the Inter Services fixtures, the RAF U23s head coach expects a difficult test.

"Both teams that we play against have got some very good players," said Sgt Bartley.

"[They've got] good squads and good managers who have got them well-organised. I'm not really worried about individuals.

"I think we've just got to concentrate on ourselves and what we can offer. Hopefully, [we'll] get the right results."