Ynys Mon v Bermuda U23 at Stromness Academy

7pm 15 July 2025

Island Games, Group C
Ynys Mon 2 Bermuda U23 2 (att 200) at Stromness Academy

The final round of group fixtures in the Island Games football were timed to be played simultaneously, with the men's matches all kicking off at 7pm.

That allowed time to enjoy a bit more of Orkney, as well as watching some of the athletics at the Pickaquoy Sports Centre in Kirkwall, a ground I've been to twice before for football.

I've also been to Stromness for football previously, seeing a match at the Market Green pitch, home to Stromness Athletic, in 2016. Athletic occasionally use Stromness Academy, most likely the 3G pitch which is adjacent to the grass pitch that's been used for the Island Games.

Like all the games venues the playing surface, roped off for the occasion, was in excellent condition.

It was by chance that I ended up watching Ynys Mon for the second time in 24 hours. As both they and Bermuda (who field their under 23 side in the games) had beaten the Western Isles this was, in effect, a decider for a semi-final place.

Two early goals, the first a penalty, gave the Welsh side a perfect start. But Bermuda grew into the game and pulled a goal back well before half time.

The second period was mostly Bermuda attack against a resolute Ynys Mon defence. Bermuda had plenty of possession, but created few clear chances. It looked as it Ynys Mon's superior strength and guile would see them through.

A long stoppage for a nasty-looking injury to a Bermuda player threatened to disrupt any momentum they were building, but they kept on pressing and were rewarded 10 minutes into stoppage time.

A direct free kick on the edge of the box found the top corner of the net perfectly, to the delight of a group of Bermuda supporters behind the goal.

With a final score of 2-2 I'd expected a penalty shootout, but apparently, due to the group standings, it wasn't required. Bermuda topped the group on goal difference from Ynys Mon, but the Welsh side had the consolation of the also reaching the last four, as the best second placed side.

After five enjoyable matches on five grounds, I'll be following the rest of the Island Games from home.