June 16th 2007


Lots of chances created but not many converted was a common theme for Awakeri's soccer teams on Saturday.
In the 15th grade, Proactive Chairs Awa-Edge had a slow first half but an improved second half, eventually losing 0 - 7 to Ohope. Luke Overworth was the player of the day, he helped create a number of chances and the team deserved some reward for a solid effort.
Private Asset Management Awakeri Aces were away to an as yet undefeated Opotiki in the 13th grade. Aces immediately put pressure on Opotiki in their half of the field. Despite their efforts, Opotiki were first to open the scoring with a goal after about 10 minutes. This didn't halt the Aces continuing pressure though, and only a few minutes later they were rewarded with a goal from Jayden Haddock. The game continued to be very intense and Opotiki from time to time looked pretty stunned by Aces' sheer determination. Opotiki were awarded a penalty late in the first half which resulted in them having a 2 - 1 advantage at half time.
In the second half Opotiki came out with all guns blazing and kept Cameron Rio-Kumeroa busy in goal.
A very quick Opotiki defence managed to shut down every attack Aces made. An own goal put Opotiki further ahead and then as the Aces became tired, Opotiki managed to widen the final gap to 5 - 1.
The score line doesn't really reflect on the huge effort Awakeri put in - it was their best game to date with everyone playing really well as a team. The player of the day was Brittany Harder - this is Brittany's first season of soccer but she looked like she'd being playing for years by the way she tackled.
Also in the 13th grade, CJ McIndoes Awakeri Dragons couldn't keep Whakatane Rangers in check, going down 1 - 6. Jarrod Butler competed well and was named player of the day. Defender Mikaela Hancox and goal scorer Sam Schuler were also in good form for the Dragons.
Despite Rory McGregor's best efforts in the defence, Awakeri Macattacks were fairly disorganised in the first half of their 11th grade game against a strong Ohope team. They showed better combinations in the second half, with Jordan Sutton scoring before going off injured. Sam McPherson's good runs down the wing earned him player of the day status. Ohope won 10 - 1.
Also in the 11th grade, Jim's Saddlery Awakeri Knights had a tight tussle with Otakiri. Samuel Burgess and Toby Kirkpatrick scored for the Knights, with Otakiri winning 3 - 2. Player of the day Shayne Fortune put in some determined tackling.
An early cold start didn't help Awakeri Jets in their 9th grade game against Whakatane Giants. Alec Hunt showed out and was player of the day, while Shane Hope impressed by playing on after taking several knocks. Giants won 9 - 0.
Awakeri Tigers were a player short for their 8th grade game against Ohope. They put in a big effort, held their positions well and created a number of chances, but Ohope put their away to win 5 - 0. Christian Mattock-Prince's terrier-like tackling brought him player of the day.
7th grade Galatea Vets Awakeri White Pointers had a very tough game in near freezing conditions, against a quality Ohope Surfers team. Although the White Pointers tried very hard, Ohope came away with a 4 - 0 win. Pointers' player of the day was Jamie Findlay, who played a good all round game.
Performance Zone Awakeri Blues turned on a great performance in the 7th grade, beating James Street 4 - 0. Felicity Klein Ovink was player of the day. Keely Forbes, Joshua Shakes and the talented Quest Tipping were also in top form.
Awakeri Rovers faced a much tougher challenge than in recent weeks, when they played Awakeri Rockets in the 'very local home derby'. Crisp air in bright sunshine added to the early morning spectacle as the fixture got underway between two evenly matched 6th grade sides. Danyon Arrol was again playing well for Rovers and he took his chances to score two goals in the first half: The keen competition continued into the second half, but resolute defending by both sides prevented further goals. Poppy Rika was nominated Rovers' player of the day. Rovers 2, Rockets 0.
Awakeri T-Rex had a great 6th grade game with Te Teko, which was much enjoyed by the parents. The game, between two evenly matched teams, flowed from one end to the other. Both T-Rex's goalies Zoe Bennett and Taryn Forbes had outstanding games. Taryn was player of the day.



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