Klakring Sailors Take On ITS Todaro Sailors In Soccer

The event was arranged as part of a bevy of activities scheduled by Klakring, host ship for Todaro, to engage the Italian Sailors in various social, professional, and athletic events during their historic port visit to Naval Station Mayport.

In preparation for the match, Klakring's athletes held two practices to hone their skills. The game, which began at 5 p.m. on the fields off Massey Ave., started out in a dead heat for first goal. Klakring's own Gas Turbine Electrician Third Class Christian Djiofack led the offensive deep in the Italian's territory, supported by skilled play from Klakring's midfielders and sweepers.

"We definitely did our best. We got the most out of all the players we could for not having too many opportunities to practice," commented Djiofack. "Overall, our performance was much better than I expected."

Klakring's own Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Ian Pollitt, proved to be stalwart as a midfielder, keeping the pressure on the Italians and the ball downfield. Despite Klakring's keen play, Todaro made the first strike, scoring near the conclusion of the first half.

Both teams came into the second half with their second winds, as both teams starting line-ups were fresh for play. Todaro kept the press on Klakring, however, the brilliant goal tending by Boatswain's Mate Third Class Clint Smothers kept the game close. Despite Smothers' best efforts, Todaro's keen ball skills finally led them to another goal, making it 2-0 roughly five minutes into the second half.

Klakring finally responded to Todaro's charges, with Djiofack, assisted by Seaman Opeyemi Akintide, scoring Klakring's first and only goal. The game continued fiercely through the remaining twenty-five minutes, but Todaro proved to be too much for Klakring, as they finished the game adding one more goal, making the final score 3-1.

Both the Americans and Italians left the field exhausted after their hard play, but full of great memories from a hard fought match. In addition to the soccer game, Klakring and Todaro are partnering for several events throughout Todaro's visit, including an informal reception at Ocean Breeze Conference Center and training events on both ships.

The soccer game was one of the many events that have helped strengthen the partnerships between the crews of both Navies. Klakring wishes the best for Todaro throughout the rest of her historic visit to the United States and a safe return to Italy.