On 6 June, the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom and the École de Guerre rugby teams came together under a sunny Parisian sky in a battle for the Lerwill Cup.
With the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop, national anthems were played and the energy radiating from both sides made it clear early on that it would be a fiercely contested match.
Match debrief:
After a sustained spell of strong offense and defence, the UK Defence Academy finally broke the deadlock, bulldozing over the line to take a 7–0 lead.
Tensions flared after a scuffle between passionate British and French players, resulting in multiple yellow cards and temporarily reducing the teams to 13 and 14 players, respectively. Despite the drama on the pitch, the UK Defence Academy maintained their lead through the end of the first half.
The second half began in a frenzy, with big hits flying in from both sides. Then, in the 54th minute, the UK Defence Academy chased down a loose kick and pounced on a lucky bounce to extend the lead. The British Team now led 14-0 and were looking to dominate the French on their home turf.
However, the French increased their intensity, spurred on by the home crowd, which helped reignite their spark. Midway through the second half, the French scored, bringing the home team back into the contest.
The UK team did an outstanding job pinning the French deep in their own half, ratcheting up the pressure, but the home-team held firm. In a shock lightning counterattack, at minute 69, the French surged nearly the full length of the pitch, making it a tie-game at 14-14.
As the clock wound down, the French found their way back into the UK territory and won a critical penalty in the 77th minute. The successful kick nudged the French ahead, 17–14.
Despite immense late pressure, the French expertly ran down the clock. As the final whistle blew, the raucous home crowd surged onto the pitch as the École de Guerre celebrated their victory—taking home the Lerwill Cup.
While the Defence Academy will undoubtedly reflect on missed opportunities, Team Captain James “Woody” Woodcock expressed appreciation for the international course members who supported the UK team—specifically those from France, Georgia, and Sweden:
“Without their support, the UK would not have had enough players. The UK Team already has their sights firmly set on reclaiming the trophy when the Lerwill Cup competition returns to British soil in 2026.”
The Lerwill Cup, held for the first time in 1999, is an annual fixture in the Advanced Command and Staff Course, and part of several bilateral events to integrate officers from the two colleges professionally and socially. This year, ACSC 28 was up against École de Guerre’s 32nd Promotion course.
Lerwill Cup debate:
Beyond their athletic performance, the Defence Academy also showcased intellectual agility, participating in a joint debate with members of École de Guerre. Though the teams were mixed with UK and French students, the debate was lauded by the judges and the presiding French general officer, who praised the teams for their preparation and highlighted the academic rigor and critical thinking on display.
Major Michael “WOLF” DiGirolamo, ACSC 28 course member reflected:
“Without a doubt, Defence Academy course members, staff, and alumni demonstrated talent, motivation, and competitiveness…all while displaying excellent sportsmanship and humility, both on the pitch and at the podium.”
The 2026 Lerwill Cup will take place back on British soil, with the hopes of an ACSC victory!