COMRADES of Corporal Mark Palin, who

was killed in Afghanistan, won the first memorial game against a Chepstow Town XI for the football-loving soldier.

The teams were competing for the Maldoon Trophy – one of Cpl Palin's nicknames – and they will play for it every year in July on the anniversary of his death in Helmand province.

The game was played under floodlights at Caldicot Town's ground and the 1 Rifles team ran out 4-0 winners in a hard-fought and entertaining game.

The goals were scored by Rob Gribble – known as Roberto Gruffalo – Wayne Farington, skipper Dan Cartwright and Phil Kellond, who is Corporal Palin's father-in-law.

Chepstow also had a number of scoring chances but were unable to convert them.

All the players had the number two on their shirts in honour of Corporal Palin and the names of his children, Lennon and Ruby, were printed on the arms.

The trophy was presented to Dan Cartwright by the Mayor of Caldicot Councillor Maria Stevens who donated it.

The game also raised £354 for the Rifles' Swift and Bold appeal.

Before the game the Last Post was sounded by a Rifles bugler and the players and match officials were introduced to the mayor and 1 Rifles' commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel James de Labilliere.

Corporal Palin, described as "a true legend and friend to all who knew him, played for the Rifles and for Chepstow.

Members of his family including his wife Carla, father Paul and brother Matthew travelled from Plymouth to be at the game.

Councillor Stevens said: "It has been an honour for me to be involved and I would like to add my thanks to everyone who has contributed to making the event such a success."