May 20th 2006
Awakeri's four oldest soccer teams were all pitted against Opotiki opposition
on Saturday, and some great contests developed.
Da Silva Awakeri Autos were at home to Opotiki Franklinsteins in the 13th grade
premier division. A hard fought game ensued, resulting in a 1 all draw. Opotiki
started well and took the lead in the first half. Both teams had plenty of chances
to score but failed to do so until Autos scored the equalizer in the second
half. The last ten minutes was played at a hectic pace as both teams chased
the win, but time ran out. Vincent Sheather was the goal scorer for Autos.
In the 13th grade 1st division, Proactive Chairs Awakeri had a good game with
Opotiki Gold. Cameron Rio-Kumeroa earned Awakeri's player of the match with
some excellent work in defence and as goalkeeper. Goals to Lindsey Cotter (2)
and David Ernest brought Awakeri a 3 - 0 win.
The 11th grade Private Asset Management Awakeri Aces started very slowly in
their game with Opotiki Panthers. The combination of a recent school camp and
the long trip to Opotiki meant the Aces team was playing in slow motion for
the first ten minutes. Going a goal down, and some 'friendly' encouragement
from their coach, spurred Aces into action. They scored two quick goals through
Ben Fretwell. Opotiki fought back in the final minutes, scoring a late goal
to earn a 2 - 2 draw. Rory Macgregor was player of the match for Aces, making
some great tackles. Others to shine were Terri-Anne Hollis and Caleb Sheather.
CJ McIndoe Awakeri Dragons had no subs for their 11th grade 1st division game
against Opotiki Barcelonas but they enjoyed their game despite the hard work
needed. Mikaela Hancox's very good defending brought her the player of the match
award. Matthew Eveleens worked hard throughout, and Dean Frost tried hard on
attack for Dragons too. Barcelonas won the game 2 - 0.
In the 9th grade Agritech trailers Awakeri Knights had a lot of possession but
strong work from the Allandale centre back kept them out. Allandale got away
twice to sneak a 2 - 1 win. Joshua Klein Ovink's fine goal keeping and defence
made him player of the match.
In the 8th grade premier division, Galatea Vets Awakeri Jets continue to do
well, and got a 3 - 0 win against Opotiki Knights. Shane Hope's consistent good
play saw him named player of the match for Jets. Caleb Carter (2) and the hard
working Nikoli Christensen scored the goals, while Joshua Keightley and Tyrin
Penberth also impressed in their efforts.
The Awakeri Tigers held their own against a tough Saints team in the 7th grade
to secure a nil - all draw. In a mighty team effort, Maraea Porter was picked
out as player of the match.
Also in the 7th grade, Total Power Services Awakeri Sharks played Opotiki Highway
Rovers. Samantha Looney earned player of the match for good goal keeping and
consistently keeping the pressure on the opposition. Bleyne Heberly also had
a top game in defence. Sharks tried hard but the Rovers took the win 2 - 0.
Agritech Trailers Awakeri had a great game with AIE Kawerau in the 6th grade.
Aroha Millar's impressive defense skills earned her player of the match. Sean
Young and Jamie Findlay also had awesome games, keeping the spectators interested
with their close attempts at goals. However, the final score remained at 0 -
0.
Also in the 6th grade, Performance Zone Awakeri Blues had a good game on Saturday,
at home to Saints Two. The visitors won the game but all the Blues still enjoyed
it. Joshua Shakes got player of the match for Blues.