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1st June 2013
Three wins, three losses and a high scoring draw was the lot
of Awakeri's football teams on Saturday. While the younger teams had the day
off, the older teams all took the field.
Insitu Heritage Awakeri Sharks were at home to Opotiki Tigers in the 13th grade.
Tigers started off with a roar and were three goals up before Sharks started
to wake up. Sharks managed some reasonable attacks, the best of them leading
to a strong shot from Dylan Curtis being well saved by the keeper. Opotiki took
back control with a terrific shot from 25 metres finding the net and they went
on to win 6 - 0. Finn Spod was Sharks' player of the day, others to do well
included Lucille Smits, Keely Forbes and Lochie Brooking.
Private Asset Management Awakeri Comets had a tough game away to Ohope Vipers
in the 11th grade premier division. After an even start Ohope took the lead
but Kevin Paulsen soon equalized. Ohope added another couple of goals before
Campbell Forsyth scored to bring Awakeri back into the game. However, Ohope
played the better passing game and scored several goals before Kevin scored
another couple of good solo efforts to complete his hat-trick. Ohope were deserving
winners 8 - 4. The best part of the Awakeri performance was that they kept fighting
even when they were under a lot of pressure. Player of the day was shared between
Ethan Patterson for his great efforts, constantly battling for the ball, and
Ben White for his tackling and hard work.
In the 11th grade 1st division Barringtons Motor Lodge Awakeri Wildcats had
another great game, winning 3 - 0 against the James Street Hornets. Emily Julian
scored a first half hat trick, combining strength and good finishing and she
earned herself player of the day. There were season best performances from most
players. Linette Lengkeek, Sophie Lawrence and Caroline Paulson were outstanding
in defence. Luella Howe and Renske Brabant were accurate in all their work.
Jenae Brownless again got through a power of work as centre midfielder and her
distribution was first class. The parents and coaches are wrapped with the continuing
development of this team.
HTL Spreading Awakeri Lightning had an off day against James Street Legends
in the 11th grade 1st division. Legends won 6 - 0. Corisa Johnston and Sarah
Sheaff were the best for Lightning.
Da Silva Autos Awakeri Strikers had their first win in the 9th grade. They played
Kawerau Red Dragons, whose keeper had an excellent game, keeping the scores
close. Strikers won 2 - 1 in the end. Cambell Julian and Matthew Reihana-Asquith
were the scorers for Awakeri. Keegan Jones and player of the day Kaedyn Portsmouth
were excellent in defence. Olivia Benner was also in top form.
Teamwork again saw R. Mahy Contracting Awakeri Warriors to a win in the 8th
grade, this time over Whakatane G Force. Jamie Julian (2), Kalib Schuler and
Elijah Wetting-Davidson all scored goals with Kalib earning player of the day
for his consistent effort in attack.
Also in the 8th grade, Awakeri Dragons had a great game against Allandale Wizards.
It ended up a 4 all draw. Kaia Skipps got player of the day, showing her skills
by scoring three goals for the Dragons.