With an early start the team arrived just after 8:15am for their 9:30am kickoff vs Fencibles United from Auckland. With 3 boys unavailable for Day 2 the task ahead was always going to be tough with 3 games to be had. Fencibles were solid across the park and proved to be extremely difficult to break them down. However, when the team pressed high and put them under pressure we created turnovers and half chances but were unable to convert. It didn’t help that some calls didn’t go our way and we were constantly under pressure. Fencibles were too big, too strong and deserved their win. 4 nil loss.
The final pool game was against Stop Out from Wellington. Both teams were sitting bottom of the table do this match was to determine who would play. The focus for this game was not to concede early like all over games thus far. It was a fairly even match with both sides creating chances. Stop Out scored just before halftime. Stop Out were just a little more composed and more effective in possession. Claudelands pushed for an equaliser only to be punished on the counter.
The last game of the day was played against local rivals Hamilton Wanderers. We were desperate for a win and deserved one for the tournament. Wanderers used their experienced players well and managed the game and running away with it in the end. A consolation goal was scored when Ben Sole was fouled by the keeper.
The team would like to THANK the Committee and the parents for all their support especially those whom provided their vehicles for transport. A huge thank you to Sarah Best for managing the team over the weekend.
Although the results didn’t go our way, all 18 squad members contributed both on and off the field. The attitude & effort was first class. For a team that has never been to this tournament nor played together before they can be proud of themselves.
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