The Benin Marina Hotel hosted a football (soccer) game of some importance last Sunday (8th November). It was the Mercy Ships Crew vs the Mercy Ships Day Volunteers. Day Volunteers are local people who are hired by Mercy Ships to assist the various departments - we have wonderful Beninoise engine-hands, electricians, mechanics, translators, deck-hands and hospital staff.
There was a wonderful atmosphere at the Marina Hotel as the game kicked off shortly after 15h00. Many supporters - both Crew and Day Volunteers - made the short journey from the ship to watch the game. The game itself was an even affair, although the time the referee play
ed was far from even. A 37 minute first-half, followed by 67 minutes of second-half action! The result after full-time was a goalless draw, but the match was decided on penalties, in which the Crew won 4-1.I was the linesman for the whole second-half and called a few offside calls. I enjoyed the experience, but don't think my calling is as an Assistant Referee!
