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Report of games 16 August 2003
In a game befitting two of the top teams in the 15th grade league, Awakeri Mysterios
and United turned on an exciting game of soccer. A very tight first half had
plenty of
good moves, but sound defence kept it scoreless. Awakeri almost went ahead early
in
the second half, when Matthew Ward took three defenders with him on a 70 m run
down the sideline. He then cut through them and squared it across goal, but
no-one
could turn it in. United then did open the scoring, after a fast breaking move.
Mysterios fought back and a Ward flick on found Reender Buikema. He scored with
an excellent close range lob. The result, a 1 - 1 draw, was a fair reflection
of the
game. Simon Barr’s good showing in defence earned him player of the match
for
Mysterios, although he was one of a whole team playing well.
Another top game from two well-organised sides was played when Awakeri 13th
grade took on the James Street Cowboys at Awakeri.
Both sides displayed excellent communication and ball skills, which made for
a fast
and exciting game. The first quarter was very even with both sides getting good
ball
to their forwards and tight defence. After continued pressure by Awakeri and
good
ball from the mid field, striker Ben McPherson lofted one past the James Street
keeper. Accurate passing and a pinpoint cross saw Kelly Stanton power one past
the
keeper soon after. From then on it was almost one way traffic, with James Street
having to defend constantly. Their odd break out was turned into attack by the
Awakeri backs Jordan Macdonald, player of the match Daniel Goodhew and Mark
Ernest.
The second half saw Awakeri dominate again with mid fielders Stanton, Bradley
Turner and Neil Sax exploiting gaps in the James Street line. Another fine run
down
the right from Hayden Te Moana, mid way through, saw his shot find the back
of the
net. The final score was 3 - 0 to Awakeri.
In the 11th grade, Awakeri Aces qualified for the A division and took to the
field
against a formidable Ohope side. Real quality soccer was produced by both teams.
Mathew Bateson received player of the day for the Aces with some outstanding
passing and team play. His committed and tireless efforts helped his team mates
Mathew Reeves and Robbie Sonntag score goals. Bateson also scored after a great
solo run. Every member of the Aces team put in a very solid effort, to come
away
with a 3 - 1 win.
In a very exciting game that could have gone either way, 11th grade Total Power
Services Awakeri Rangers, went down 4 - 3 to James Street. James Attewell did
his
part with a hat -trick, and was Rangers player of the the day. Others to stand
out were
Madison Constantine, who defended well and Joseph Newdick who had his best game
of the season. Rangers were right in the game to the end, but were just pipped
at the
post, when James Street scored twice in the last 5 minutes.
In the 10th grade, Awakeri Hurricanes travelled to Opotiki and all played well.
Harry
Cotter turned on a good display in defence and was named player of the match.
He
was well supported by the efforts of David Ernest and Brent Gurran. Opotiki
won the
game 1 - 0.
Da Silva Awakeri Autos had a tough, even 9th grade game against Edgecumbe.
Edgecumbe scored a late goal to take the game 5 - 4. Matthew Orr-McKeown earned
player of the match with some excellent defence. Keanu Carter, Stephen Glassbrook,
Jayden Haddock and Liam Richards all put away goals for Autos.
Also in the 9th grade, Awakeri Draintech Diggers had a competitive game with
Kawerau. Notable efforts from Sam Schuler, Riki Roia, and player of the match
Logan Munro paved the way for a 2 - 2 draw. Munro even had battle scars on his
face
for his troubles! Gareth Rowlands continued his goal scoring feats, grabbing
both
goals for Diggers.
Awakeri Steelers took a while to work out how to cope with their 8th grade
opposition Ohope Seagulls. Seagulls raced out to a big lead, before Steelers
came
right. Mark Morrison scored a couple of late goals for Steelers. Their player
of the
match was Emma Bennett, who played very well on the field and in goal.
In the 7th grade, Awakeri Kingz had a close game with Allandale. Jesse Ingle
had a
very good all round game and was named player of the match. Tautari Merito made
some good saves in goal, and Blake Cossey was also in good form.
Awakeri Rockets travelled to Opotiki for their 7th grade game. Player of the
match
Matthew Eveleens ran hard all game for Rockets. Iven Bennett played well in
goal, as
did Roy McGregor and Kurt Turpie on the field. Opotiki won the game 2 - 0.
In the 6th grade, Awakeri played the James Street Alley Cats on a big field.
They
worked hard and played well. Cameron Morrison was in grand form and scored the
first goal. Jennifer Cram played up to her best, while player of the match Sam
Holani
scored the second goal to earn a 2 - 2 draw.