Under 10 Stead Park
Newtown Strikers vs Kardinia 2-3
In a hard-fought match against top-ranked Kardinia, Strikers put in an amazing performance to finish off their season on a high. In the first half, Strikers got a lot of short corner practice, as Kardinia were very strong in attack! Harry, Henry, James and Thomas combined brilliantly in defence. Special mention to Will, who ran down from halfway and put added pressure on a Kardinia player off one of those short corners.
James scored a brilliant goal in a quick transition from defence to offence. Isla and Dot were also positioned really well to receive the many passes that James, Harry and Edward were putting out into space, leading to a Newtown short corner just before half-time that almost resulted in another goal. Strong team defence kept Kardinia to just 2 goals at half-time.
The second half saw Newtown really step up the pace, with great passing by Henry, Harry, Edward and Dot resulting in lots of forward pressure and another goal to James. Newtown’s defence, led by Thomas, Will and James, was rock solid and saw Kardinia add only one more goal to their tally. Dot and Isla also kept up their strong presence in the forward line, with a few very near misses, and a great final run by Thomas resulted in a goal, but unfortunately just after Ruby had blown the final whistle. A fantastic game that really showcased the growth in all players over the season.
Under 10 Lloyd Reserve
Newtown Rockets vs Dynamos 3-7
For the last round of the season we had Austin, Elspeth, Harry, Lily, Nora and Ryder playing for Rockets and we played Dynamos.
We had a great game defending well and finding good space to pass the ball to our teammates. At half time Claire reminded the team to make sure you are in a good position for your teammate and call for your teammate when they are about to receive the ball. We also need to spread out to make space. The team took this into the second half and were in better positions.
Lily scored 3 goals for Rockets, well done Lily!! But Dynamos came home for the win with 7 goals.
Thanks for a great season Rockets and good luck for the summer season if you play. If not, hope to see you all next winter season.
Newtown Rebels vs Newtown Spirit 3-3
Under 12
Newtown Strikers vs Torquay 5-0
An even team performance which resulted in a 5-0 win over Torquay . It was great to see so many set plays that have been practiced at training work in a game, with many ending up in goals.
Special mention to Eliza and Georgia who played their positions well all game and to Albie who played well in goals again.
Good luck for the finals.
Newtown Spirit vs Kardinia 5-0
The final game of the regular season. Kardinia played a very loose and open game which was not going to work against Spirit. The first half was predominantly played in Spirits attacking half. Chelsea scored in the first 3 minutes from a short corner then Alex scored her 12th goal of the season. Jack had a nice run through the middle and scored a fine solo goal for 3-0 at half time.
Second half was much the same. Kardina defended better but still goals came to Joe and Ishe. An excellent season so far by Spirit to finish second on the table with 10 wins 1 draw and 4 losses. Spirit 5-0 Kardinia.
Under 14
Newtown Strikers vs Torquay 3-4
U14 Strikers started the final round of the season strongly – keeping the ball up our end and away from Torquay. Within the first five minutes we were on the scoreboard with a nice goal from Oli after he ran the ball past several players and into our D. A great opening statement!
Torquay responded quickly and opened their account with a goal, and shortly after that they had us defending a short corner. Kayden continued to show great skills in the goalie gear to block their attempts, but a second Torquay short corner was successful.
Strikers were quick to get the ball back where we needed it, and to also find a short corner of their own. Lucas Y made the most of it – a lovely shot into goal!
At the half time break Torquay were in the lead 2-4, and special guest coach Paul took the team into the shed for oranges and a pep talk. A big thanks again to Paul for looking after the team this weekend 🙂
Back out on the pitch for the second half and the team were keen to make sure that there were no more Torquay goals. We had a few early chances on goal and some great attempts from Sofia – ready on post for some incoming chances – but Torquay seemed equally set on not letting us score!
After several Newtown and Torquay missed short corners, it was Parker who eventually broke the goal drought with 7 minutes remaining, which really turned the momentum our way.
Both teams continued a tough battle to the end, and a literal last minute attempt from Jess to equalise the score just missed – it was oh-so-close!
Whilst we kept Torquay scoreless in the second half, their goals in the first were enough to give them their first win for the season: 3-4.
The two teams meet again next weekend for the semi finals, with the Strikers looking to build on their second half momentum and make sure that they walk away victorious the second time around. Go Strikers!!
Under 17
Newtown Strikers vs Kardinia White 7-1
Newtown entered their clash against Kardinia White with plenty at stake, as a victory had the potential to elevate them to second place and secure a double chance, depending on other results.
The team warmed up with enthusiasm and hit the pitch eager to make a strong start, but it was Kardinia who struck first, scoring a well-taken goal to put Newtown 1-0 down at quarter-time. During the break, the team focused on staying positive, adhering to their game plan, and maintaining pressure on Kardinia.
The second quarter saw a turnaround for Newtown. Ollie found the back of the net twice, and the team moved the ball efficiently across the field while maintaining a strong defensive structure. Another goal late in the quarter extended their lead, allowing Newtown to head into halftime with a 3-1 advantage.
At the halftime talk, the emphasis was on patience with ball possession and looking for creative options in attack, making incisive passes through the defense, and positioning teammates into space.
The game opened up in the second half, with Newtown continuing to display a balanced mix of passing and solo runs, creating more scoring opportunities. Riley and Georgia were particularly effective in their roles as halves, thwarting any Kardinia attacking runs down the wing.
Newtown managed to score two goals in both the third and fourth quarters, combining efforts from short corners and open play. Grace capped off the game with a fantastic goal from the wing, sealing a strong finish for Newtown. Despite their impressive performance, Torquay’s victory over Kardinia Blue kept Newtown in third place. Nonetheless, Newtown heads into this week’s 3rd vs. 4th playoff against Kardinia White with strong form and confidence.
Division 1 Women
Newtown Falcons vs Torquay 1-8
A tough game against the dominant team of the season.
Division 2 Women
Newtown Strikers vs Saints Red 2-1
A great game to finish off with well co-ordinated defence matched by some great co-operation and use of space in the attacking zone.
