Players aged 12 to 14 are invited to attend this free session, focusing on strategies to build Mental Health literacy and provide help-seeking education.
‘Game Plan’ aims to encourage young people to build their teams on and off the sporting field. It discusses ways to support each other’s choices, take risks safely, and the relationship between alcohol and mental health.
The program uses a team-based, interactive approach led by trained facilitators, involving discussions, activities, and games designed to engage young participants.
Highlight of the week: fantastic game from U14 Strikers this week. Persistence and practice has paid off!
Under 10 Stead Park
Newtown Strikers vs Newtown Spirit9-2
It was another Newtown City Hockey Club derby this weekend at Stead Park, with the U10 Strikers donning the yellow bibs to take on Spirit. This week was also Austin’s 25th game milestone – congratulations Austin!
The start of the first half showed a lot of determination from both teams. The Strikers had some early opportunities with Georgia, Harry and Ryder all having shots on goal without luck. Will and Zach were kept busy in the middle trying to stop Spirit’s attack, but eventually it was Spirit who scored the first goal. Game on!!
Harry was quick to turn up the heat and respond, putting Strikers first goal on the board. He continued to apply a lot of pressure to win the ball back, and it was long before a nice pass from Georgia back to Harry saw another goal being scored. Strikers’ third goal followed shortly after, a reverse of the second goal, with a shot into the D from Harry to Georgia who quickly sent it into the goals to score her first for the game.
With the score 3-1 at the half time break (and it feeling much closer than that out on the pitch) coach Ivy changed up the positions to bring Lily up into striker position. Back out on the pitch and Lily was quick to make the most of the change, scoring two quick goals – the second off a short corner.
Spirit responded soon after with their second goal, and then ramped up the pressure drawing two consecutive short corners. Our defenders were up to the task though, with neither troubling the goals.
With Austin getting a lot of the ball and sending into our D repeatedly, it wasn’t long before Harry scored another goal for the Strikers. And after that assist, Austin decided it was time to celebrate his 25th game by scoring a goal too!
In the final few minutes the Strikers surged, with several shots on goal from Georgia, Harry and Lilly – and two more goals to take the final score to 9-1.
A great game to watch from these two Newtown teams – and one that looked a lot closer on the pitch than it did on the scorecard. Future hockey stars in the making!!
Newtown Spirit vs Newtown Strikers 2-9
The match kicked off with Strikers applying strong early pressure, testing Spirit’s defence right from the outset. Eliza and Charlie responded with attacking intent— launching long-range shots, but Eliza’s attempt fell short as it was taken from outside the D.
Spirit struck first when Eliza delivered a sharp pass to Charlie on the right-hand side, who finished cleanly to open the scoring. Rupert providing some solid intercepts in the mid field.
Despite this strong start, Strikers regrouped and responded with a well-taken goal. Miriam held her ground in defence, stopping runs and covering space, but Strikers quickly followed up with two more quick goals, swinging momentum their way. Before the break, Miriam released a quick pass to Eliza, with Nadia pushing up in support, but they were unable to convert the chance. Albert provided some strong hit and follows across the midfield. The half ended with Spirit trailing 1–3, despite a promising showing.
The second half began in a similar fashion, with Strikers scoring two rapid goals, one of them coming from a well-executed short corner. Spirit pushed to get back into the game—Eliza linked with Nadia, threading a smart ball around the last defender. Nadia finished confidently to bring Spirit a much-needed goal, reducing the deficit.
Spirit continued to push forward, winning a short corner. Eliza and Charlie combined well, and although they worked the ball into space, the Strikers’ defence held firm. At the other end, Toby stepped up defensively—cutting out short corners and making key stops to slow Strikers’ momentum.
Despite this resistance, Strikers added four more goals as the game wore on. Spirit kept fighting, with several promising passages of play including runs from Charlie to Eliza and strong midfield movement from Albert and Rupert. However, converting those opportunities remained a challenge.
The final score was 9–2 in favour of Strikers. While the result didn’t go Spirit’s way, the team showed a solid first-half effort and encouraging team play. The early passages in both halves were promising, but fatigue and pressure took their toll late in each half. Even so, moments of smart passing, pressing, and individual effort showed the team’s potential and spirit.
Under 10 Lloyd Reserve
Another cold day starting at about 8 degrees, but as one parent commented ‘Oh it’s warmer today!’ And the sun warmed it up to a lovely day.
Thanks to Chris and Peter for providing the morning tea after the games. There wasn’t much left after the hungry hordes had finished!
Newtown Rockets vs Newtown Rebels 2-3
A great game from both teams with all players showing great development in skills and team strategies. Zita took on the job of defending the goal this week and made some great stops and passes out to team mates. A tendency to chase the ball sometimes saw a very crowded area on one side of the field and made it difficult to get the ball forward into attack. Everyone is keen to get the ball but we still need to learn about position play and creating spaces. Great defence in the midfield by Alex with excellent tackling skills and some lovely passing.
A position switch at half time saw Nora and Tully swap, and great interceptions from Nora allowed her to pass the ball wide to Tully’s advantage, and he followed up to score 2 goals. David and Alex worked really well together on the left and with some through passing along the side line, Rockets were able to get the ball into the circle more frequently, creating pressure on the defence. Excellent game Rockets!
Newtown Dynamos vs Newtown Jets 9-0
Another icy start for Round 8, Dynamos played a mighty game with only 4 players this week. They played against the Jets for the Under 10 junior competition at Lloyd Reserve.
This week saw some great fast pass outs from Florence and great tackling from Flynn. Georgia had the speedy shoes on to get the ball and Mathilda showed great support to get the ball down the pitch.
The team had to really work together to cover the ground. Lovely to see the team calling out to each other and looking for the space to get the ball around.
Thanks for the game and well done to both teams.
Under 12
Newtown Spirit vs Corio 3-5
Austin, who was celebrating his 25th game milestone with Newtown, led the team onto the field as captain.
The game started and immediately it went into Corio’s forward line. Goal keeper Leon and his defenders fought hard against two Corio short corners before they cleared the ball into Spirit’s forward line. A couple of near misses before Spirit pushed one past the keeper – GOAL!!
Back to the centre and yet again Spirit’s defence was under a lot of pressure. All defenders worked hard to clear the ball into the centre where Austin was waiting to receive, a massive push through to Oliver who passed to Mitchell and GOAL!! It was a beautiful display of teamwork that started back in defence.
Now the unthinkable was happening – Spirit were 2-0 up against the top of the ladder team.
Back to the centre followed by a quick goal to Corio. Then back to the centre again and the ball immediately went back to Corio’s forward line, but Spirit’s defenders were waiting, after a short corner opportunity to Corio the ball returned to Spirit’s forward line. Back and forth, both teams were under pressure. Another attempt at goal by Corio was successfully defended, followed by three short corners before Corio were able to capitalise. At half time the score was 2-2.
At half time the coaches discussed the strategy for Spirit to enhance our short corners – who runs out and who stays with the goalkeeper.
The second half was similar to the first half with defenders under pressure, the ball going up and down the pitch and attempts at goal by both teams. Three more goals to Corio and one more to Spirit.
At the end of the match the score was 5-3 Corio’s way. For the entire match, Spirit defenders were strong under pressure defending a huge amount of attempts on their goal, and Spirit attackers capitalised when the opportunity presented. It was a great game of teamwork – congrats team Spirit!
Newtown Strikers vs Torquay 0-5
Under 14
Newtown Strikers vs Torquay 1-1
The Strikers battled to a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Torquay in a match that highlighted resilience, teamwork, and growing cohesion. Despite a slow start, the team lifted their intensity and produced strong, confident hockey—applying sustained pressure and creating several scoring opportunities throughout the game.
The standout moment came from a well-rehearsed penalty corner set play, which led to a brilliant goal. A clean trap was followed by a powerful strike on goal from Jack F, with Jack P and Alexandra perfectly positioned on the post. After a deflection, Alexandra reacted quickly to finish it off with a composed tap-in. It was a textbook example of our game plan in action—rewarding the team’s training efforts and showing clear signs of progress.
The remainder of the match saw the Strikers continue to push for a winner while staying solid at the back. It was a true team performance, with players across the field stepping up and playing their roles with energy and purpose.
Our defensive unit was outstanding. Albie made multiple key saves, while Lily, Lucas, Alex, Emily, and Eliza worked together to intercept, slow down, and repel several Torquay attacking plays.
In the midfield, Chelsea and Mitchell ran tirelessly all game, playing vital linking roles between defence and attack. Their ability to move the ball forward and create space was instrumental in generating momentum and setting up our forwards.
Plenty of positives to take away from this one. A strong foundation to build on as we head into next week. Well done to the entire squad!
Under 16
Newtown Strikers vsTorquay 1-12
The Strikers got off to a strong start this week, with Jess and Ivy working the ball into our D early. Whilst Torquay took first goal honours, the Strikers persisted and it wasn’t long before Ivy took advantage of a penalty 1v1 to level the scoreboard. Cormac and Liz were kept busy in defense, with Parker chipping in too to keep the ball out of Torquay’s goal.
The second quarter started with two great saves from Kayden in goalie, who continued to impress his team mates and those watching from the stands with his keeping skills. Meanwhile Jess, celebrating game number 50, was working hard up front but without luck from two hits on goal.
Sidak pushed up forward in the third quarter, and was able to find a foot in the D for another penalty 1v1 which unfortunately went begging. The Strikers’ bad luck continued, with two more 1v1s in the quarter going the same way.
Torquay continued to attack hard through the fourth quarter, and despite some good defensive tackles on two occasions from Cormac and Sofia to save two goals, Torquay won the match 12-1.
Division 1 Women
Newtown Falcons vs Torquay 2-7
Division 2 Men
Newtown Falcons vs Torquay 0-5
Division 2 Women
Newtown Strikers vsGeelong 4-0
Another fantastic game from Strikers this week, who dominated the play and rarely allowed Geelong any significant attacks. Strong defence by all with Sarah and Tash meeting any threat early. Anything which did get into the defensive 25 was soon met and repelled by Andie, Kirsty and Hannah R, leaving the keeper very little to do. Geelong’s tendency to sit a forward very deep in their attacking area did create some uncertainty at times but Strikers handled it well.
The superstars (Chelsea, Tilly, Jess, Hanna, Lara and Kristy) on our forward line continue to show great ball control skills, spinning onto the forestick to maintain control and leave opponents out of position. And again this week, support from the midfield and inners for forwards taking the ball into attack has allowed tactical back passes to create space and continue to control the play. Kristy was everywhere this week, and jumped on anything which came her way, making some great passes across the circle to teammates just waiting to score. Some effective short corner strategies are great to watch. Goals to Tash, Tilly (2) and Sarah.
Highlight of the week: great game from U16 Strikers with some fantastic attacks and some equally great saves by Kayden in goals!
Under 10 Stead Park
Newtown Strikers vs Torquay 10-2
Despite a very cold morning (featuring ice on the pitch!) it was another strong start from the Strikers this week with Georgia and Harry playing out wide to get the ball into our D. It wasn’t long before Lily made the most of the opportunities and scored our first goal.
Torquay tried to equalise, however as always Elspeth was too good on the goal line clearing the ball out of danger.
The team soon picked up the pace, and thanks to some great team work the goals started to come fast! Georgia put the next three goals on the scoreboard, thanks to assists and good balls from Lily and Harry. And whenever Torquay got the ball, it wasn’t long before Zach intercepted and got the ball back on his stick and up our end for the next shot on goal!
Just before the halftime whistle Lily overcame some strong defense in the D to score her second, followed by a great assist from Zach on to Harry for another goal. 6-0 at halftime!
In the second half the goals continued to flow, with Lily not only scoring three of them, but also doing some great defensive work in Torquay’s D and saving a goal!
Austin and Zach continued to impress with their high work rate, intercepting the ball whenever Torquay had it. Torquay were able to get two goals on the board in the half, despite the Strikers best efforts to defend.
Shortly before the final whistle Austin scored our final goal – a great shot off a great pass from Lily.
The final score: 10-2
Newtown Spirit vs Corio 5-6
The match began with Corio opening the scoring early, catching Spirit slightly off guard. Spirit quickly settled into the game and began applying strong pressure. Eliza fired a long-range effort from the middle of the pitch, but the shot was just too far out. Both Eliza and Nadia pressed hard, forcing errors in Corio’s backline. Spirit earned three short corners in succession, but despite the buildup, they couldn’t find the finishing touch.
In defence, Rupert held firm in the centre, providing a reliable backstop against Corio’s counters. Albert pushed forward with pace and energy, combining with Rupert to keep the pressure on. One of the best moments of the half came when Eliza played a sharp short pass to Miriam, who distributed the ball with a series of impressive long-range passes to shift play. Still, despite Spirit’s control and attacking intent, the half ended goalless.
The second half saw Spirit step up with urgency. Albert intercepted a pass and burst forward, linking with Eliza, who slotted home the opening goal for Spirit with a confident finish. Corio responded quickly to draw ahead. Toby then stepped up with a pair of key defensive plays, cutting out Corio’s advances and keeping Spirit in the game.
Spirit continued to press, and Eliza found the net again to draw the score level. Corio, however, were not done, replying with a goal. Toby again stood tall at the back, anchoring the defence during a critical stretch. As the game wore on, Miriam and Nadia worked tirelessly through the middle, covering ground and linking play.
Corio capitalised on their chances with another quick goal, putting Spirit under pressure. Miriam then sparked a strong move through the centre, finding Nadia on a driving run—but the final shot couldn’t find the net. Corio added another goal shortly after to extend their lead.
In the closing stages, Spirit found fresh energy. Nadia delivered a centre pass to Eliza, who drove up the left-hand side. As defenders closed in, Nadia peeled off to draw players inward, allowing Eliza to cut inside and finish smartly for her third goal. Spirit weren’t done yet—Miriam surged through the middle in the final moments and rifled home a well-taken goal to close the match on a high.
Despite the 6–5 loss, Spirit showed a strong team game and the never-give-up attitude right to the final whistle.
Under 10 Lloyd Reserve
It was a cold and frosty start at Lloyd Reserve, even by 9 am.
Newtown Rockets vs Newtown Jets 3-5
The cold weather meant it was a good reason to get out and run around, and Rockets did some great running with the ball. Nora showed her usual great desire to get to the ball first and gain possession for Rockets. With support from Zita and Tully, Rockets were able to move the ball into attack on a number of occasions and keep the Jets players under pressure. Alex warmed up and made some great passes to team mates in good position. Excellent defence close to the goals by David, who kept his composure and control of the ball even when surrounded by the opposition. Goals to Tully (2) and Nora (1).
Newtown Dynamos vs Newtown Rebels10-3
After a week off to enjoy the Kings Birthday long weekend, the Dynamos played Round 7 against Rebels in the Juniors U10 at Lloyd Reserve. It was an icy yet sunny morning with the score coming in at 10 v 3.
To help balance out team numbers, it was great sportsmanship shown with Florence and Flynn each playing half a game for the Rebels to balance out the numbers. Despite the cold, the team were jovial and collaborating well. Michaela and Mathilda each rocketing along with 4 goals a piece and supported by Georgia and Flynn who both scored 1 goal each. Dynamos also welcome William to the Newtown Hockey Club.
Well done everyone for chipping in and playing a good game.
Newtown Rebels vs Newtown Dynamos 3-10
With a number of regular Rebels players missing this week, and thanks to William, Michaela and Florence for helping out, Rebels played some great hockey. A first goal scored for Esther was fantastic to see. Thanks to Ferg for coaching and lending his expertise and to Nicholas for managing the team.
Newtown Jets vs Newtown Rockets 5-3
The Newtown Jets played the Newtown Rockets on a frosty morning. It was so cold and frosty we could have played ice hockey. The Rockets rocketed to a 3-1 lead before the Jets came back. For the Jets second goal, Leila pushed the ball hard into a gap and Tess ran onto the ball and scored. It was a great team goal. Just before halftime the Jets earned a penalty push and levelled the score.
In the second half the Jets continued to play well as a team. They took frees quickly, spread out, pushed the ball hard, and tackled like lions. As the game continued, Zoey got more and more of the ball, and looked like she had been playing for years, not weeks. It was a Sister Act for the fourth goal. Saskia fought hard for the ball, won it, pushed towards goal and Leila tapped the ball in. With a few minutes to go Os scored. The final score was 5-3.
Under 12
Newtown Spirit vs Newtown Strikers 2-1
Newtown Strikers vs Newtown Spirit 1-2
In a much-anticipated local derby between the two Newtown U12 teams, the Strikers and Spirit turned on a fantastic display of junior hockey filled with determination, teamwork, and great moments.
Spirit got on the board first with an early goal, capitalising on some quick attacking play. Strikers responded well, maintaining pressure and pushing for an equaliser. The breakthrough came late in the first half when Thomas calmly pushed the ball toward goal, causing chaos in the Spirit defence. An illegal stop with the foot resulted in a penalty stroke — an automatic goal. With that, the scores were locked at 1-1 heading into the break.
Halftime brought a chance to regroup — and enjoy the peel-free oranges lovingly prepared by Fi, who also stepped in to help at the canteen. Huge thanks to her for keeping the team fuelled and the snacks hygienic!
The second half was a tight contest, with both teams giving it their all. Spirit edged ahead with another goal and managed to hold off several strong attempts by Strikers to equalise.
There were many standout efforts across the field. Joe was lively throughout, helping drive the Strikers forward. Felix made some brilliant saves to deny Spirit more goals, and Harry made several impressive runs, keeping the Spirit defence under pressure.
Final score: Spirit 2, Strikers 1 — a great game played in the true spirit of Newtown hockey. Well done to both teams!
Under 14
Newtown Strikers vs Corio Red 0-6
In a challenging outing, the Strikers fell short against Corio Red, with the final scoreline 6-0, reflecting a tough day out!.
The team’s performance was patchy throughout the match, with glimpses of promise but lacking consistent execution. Mitchell, Jack F, Alex, Sidak, Harriet and Chelsea and Alexandra created a few solid opportunities from the middle and up forward, but despite their efforts, we lack the polish to convert.
Defensively, Albie (goalkeeper) , Lucas, Eva, Lily , Liz, Jack P, Emily, Eliza held strong for large periods, with the backline absorbing significant pressure. However, the midfield unit, struggled to gain and maintain possession, limiting the team’s ability to transition into attack and support the forward line.
The team will look to regroup and sharpen its midfield connections ahead of the next fixture, aiming to bring a more cohesive and complete performance across all areas of the pitch.
Under 16
Newtown Strikers vs Corio Red 5-12
This week the Strikers played Corio Red for only the second time this year, and hoped to get a few more goals on the board than the single goal we scored against them in round 1!
Quarter 1 was strong, with Ivy and Jess getting the ball up to our end early, then a nice pass from Liz to Jess for a shot on a goal just missed. Whilst Corio were soon on the scorecard with two goals, Parker was quick to ramp up the pressure to stop their run. Cormac provided a great pass to Jess who shot at goal – this time it went in but unfortunately the whistle blew first for the first break.
In the second quarter success came, with Ivy running the ball into the D and shooting a goal, followed by another goal from Jess after a good pass from Parker. Corio responded with a couple of goals, and then Ivy drew a penalty 1v1 and converted it for our third goal! The half ended with the score 7-3 Corio’s way.
The second half tested our defenders, with Kayden making several excellent saves, and Cormac and Sidak working hard to stop Corio’s strikers. In the third quarter (after one of Kayden’s great saves in a penalty 1v1) Parker was able to work the ball to Ivy for another successful shot of goal. This was easily the Strikers best quarter: both on the pitch and on the scorecard only allowing Corio to add one goal to their score.
In the final quarter Liz and Sidak continued to be strong in the midfield, with some great passes from Liz and good use of the boards from Sidak. After some more Corio goals, Parker decided to take on a defender when he had the ball and his efforts paid off: getting the ball past them and then into goal for the Strikers fifth! A late surge from Corio saw us defending three penalty 1v1s, but Kayden was up to it, blocking all but one.
Whilst the final score didn’t go our way (12-5), the Strikers showed great determination and teamwork! In the 1st and 3rd quarters our defense only allowed 3 goals through, and in the 2nd quarter our forwards worked well together to get 3 goals on the board. Lots of positives to build on for the next game!
Division 1 Women
Newtown Falcons vs Saints 1-5
In what would turn out to be a frustrating game, although the game was evenly matched and Newtown often had the momentum, it unfortunately didn’t result in any goals other than Kim’s conversion from a well earned short corner.
Regardless of the outcome, the quality of play and consistent pressure that was applied across the field was a great reminder of how far we’ve come this season and the never give up attitude displayed by everyone on the team.
At the halfway point of the season, we’ve got a lot of work to do, particularly given that there are now 5 teams in the D1 competition with only 4 going through to the finals.
Division 2 Men
Newtown Falcons vs Saints Red 2-1
Division 2 Women
Newtown Strikers vs Saints Red 3-0
The best game yet for Strikers, maintaining control of the play for the majority of the game. With strong defence led by Tash and Kayla and well supported by Ricki, Hannah R, Sarah and Andie, Saints were unable to make much impact early in the game. Excellent leading to space and super ball control in the midfield by Jess, Tilly, Chelsea, Hanna W saw the play move to the circle on numerous occasions where Lara and Kristy were always ready to receive the ball and try for a goal.
Clarice and Sarah were adaptable and able to play in both attack and defence, with great linking play, and both found themselves on the score sheet at the end of the game. Paul’s dream premonition of 3 goals for Tilly didn’t pan out, but a goal for Jess confirmed the end result.
Ricki unfortunately sustained an injury in the first quarter and was unable to continue. Hopefully she will be back soon to continue her important role in the team.
Highlight of the week: persistence and practice are paying off for U14 Strikers with a great game against Corio White.
Under 10 Stead Park
Newtown Strikers vs Saints 6-4
This week Strikers started strong: an early goal from Georgia, a great clearance from Will in the opposition’s D, and Harry putting plenty of pressure on his opponent. Whilst Saints were able to respond with their first goal, Ryder and Zach worked hard to keep the ball up our end. With a nice assist from Georgia, Zach added a goal to the scorecard, followed quickly by another from Ryder.
Continuing to impress deep in defense, Elspeth made some great saves in front of goal, and with plenty of help from Will and Lily the ball was soon back up our end. Just before the half time break Austin added our fourth goal to the board – the fourth scorer for the half, and a great indicator of just how well the Strikers were playing as a team!
After some well deserved oranges at half time, the second half started much like the first with an early Strikers goal (Ryder) and a quick goal in response from Saints. Zach and Harry continued to pile on the pressure with their tackling skills, and after missing on the first attempt, Ryder’s second attempt bagged his third goal for the game.
Saints had some luck late in the half scoring two consecutive goals to take the score to 6-4 (in our favour), but it wasn’t long before Austin swung the momentum back around with a lovely pass to Lily who added another goal to her season’s tally. After a couple of Saints short corners (the second quickly cleared by Georgia), Lily finished the game with our final goal, sealing the win for the team – 8-4.
Newtown Spirit vs Torquay 9-2
Newtown Spirit put together a commanding performance in Round 6 against Torquay, delivering their most complete game of the season with a 9–2 victory.
The match began with Torquay striking early to take the lead, but Spirit responded instantly. Miriam burst down the left-hand side with a powerful run, slotting home a confident finish just a minute after to level the scores. Torquay answered back quickly with another goal, momentarily halting Spirit’s momentum. After taking a few minutes to reset, Spirit began to build their rhythm. Albert’s run down the right wing with a hit-and-chase created real attacking pressure, while Nadia held firm in defence near Spirit’s goal. A key attacking move saw Albert and Charlie combine on the left to find Miriam, with long-range shot from the right-hand side.
The breakthrough came soon after when Charlie and Eliza combined on the right—after the ball hit a Torquay foot, Miriam pounced on the advantage and slammed home the goal. Charlie followed up with a goal of his own soon after, capping off an excellent build-up involving Toby’s strong defensive play on the right, a pass to Eliza, then back to Toby and through to Charlie for the finish. Miriam continued her influence on the game, intercepting a Torquay pass and unleashing a big hit that found the back of the net for her third goal. A short corner to Spirit led to another brilliant sequence—Albert shut down a Torquay clearance, fed the ball to Miriam, who passed to Eliza for a well-taken goal just before halftime.
Spirit carried their momentum into the second half. A strong central clearance set up Charlie for his third goal of the match. Torquay won a short corner, but Spirit defended it superbly, keeping their lead intact. Nadia then charged down the right side, feeding Charlie for a shot that resulted in another short corner. Miriam’s shot was blocked, but Eliza capitalised on the rebound with a clinical finish. The final stages showcased more passing and attacking combinations. A long run down the left from Miriam, with Nadia in support, set up Eliza for another goal. From the restart, Spirit quickly turned over possession and Eliza struck again, sealing her hat-trick and closing out the match.
This was a powerful team performance from Spirit, blending solid defence with sharp attacking combinations. Miriam, Charlie, and Eliza starred in front of goal, while Albert, Nadia, and Toby played pivotal supporting roles. The team’s continued cohesion and growth were on full display in this standout 9-2 win.
Under 10 Lloyd Reserve
Newtown Rockets vs Newtown Dynamos 2-10
Rockets began the game well with Zita trying her skills defending the goal. Good positioning allowed her to clear the ball to team mates and Nora, Alex and Michaela were able to move the ball forward into attack. Our attack was a little one sided, mostly down the right and trying to get through the crowd but there were some great through passes to Michaela along the side line which were then followed into the circle. 2 goals scored by Michaela
The second half saw David swap to the defence role and block the approach line to the goal for Rockets, with a number of great saves and clearances out of danger. Florence created some good space on the right and Rockets were able to mount more co-ordinated forward play and give the Dynamos defence some work to do, unfortunately without a result on the scoreboard despite the determination of the Rockets players.
Thanks to Michaela and Florence for filling in for Rockets.
Newtown Dynamos vs Newtown Rockets 10-2
For Round 6 , Under 10 Juniors Lloyd Reserve this week we had the Dynamos Vs Rockets . This week we had a full crew and we were victorious at 10 v 2. To help even out the numbers, Michaela kindly helped the Rockets for first half and Florence helped out for the second half.
The start saw some evenly matched challenges from the opposition, Dynamos stepped up the gears with some fantastic teamwork – Flynn sharing the ball and passing to his team mates and Georgia flying in with great tackles. Florence showed determination and was getting right into the action . Sophie showed support on the wings and Mathilda was doing some speedy running. Michaela’s passion was useful for both teams this week. Rockets showed some great defense and gave a good fight.
The team really fired up with Flynn and Mathilda each getting 4 goals , Georgia and Michaela also getting one each. As the weeks progress, the team are building confidence and a real team mentality.
Thanks to Rockets for competing. Well done to both teams.
Newtown Rebels vs Newtown Jets 2-1
Under 12
Newtown Spirit vs Torquay 1-1
The match started with Torquay quickly moving the ball into their forward line but it didn’t stay there for long. Spirit took control and ran the ball down the pitch which resulted in a missed shot at goal and a two short corners. Torquay was strong in defence. The ball went back to Torquay’s forward line, a few short corners put goalkeeper Leon under pressure before a goal was disallowed on height, then another attempt resulted in a goal. The ball continued to go up and down the field with good passing and pressure from both teams.
At half time Torquay was ahead one goal to nil. Coaches reminded the players that when we get a penalty in our favour, attackers should leave it for the defence and push forward to accept the ball. This is something that the team did well in the second half.
We started the second half with the ball in our possession. Similar to the first half the ball went up and down the pitch many times.
Remembering back to round 1, in the second half Spirit tired resulting in six additional goals going Torquay’s way. Today, at the exact same time, team Spirit lifted. A series of brilliant passing between players resulted in a goal to Mitchell. The score was now 1-1.
There were only minutes left on the clock, and the ball immediately went back into Spirit’s forward line. Then the whistle marked the end of play. Although a draw on the scorecard, it was a huge win for Spirit!
Newtown Strikers vs Geelong Thunderstrike 5-0
Under 14
Newtown Strikers vs Corio White 0-1
The Strikers marched off the field amidst the overwhelming applause of the spectators. The Strikers performed exceedingly well against a strong Corio White’s team that had players who play in the mens Division 1 and 2 teams.
What impressed me most about the Strikers was their sheer determination to challenge every ball and not give the opposition an easy run of the game. Our defence marshalled by Albie H, Lilly P, Lucas O, Emily S and Elizabeth C was solid. They were successful in keeping Corio out of our D most of the game.
The midfield was strong the whole game. The pressured Corio’s attackers and forced them to make errors. They fed the ball to our forwards and supported them in attack. Eliza B, Emily S, Elizabeth C, Jack F, Alex L and Eva H put on a solid show.
Mitchell B, Chelsea O, Jack P, Eliza B Harriet S made several great runs inside Corio’s defensive half and we managed a couple of short corners.
Overall, the Strikers played a good team game. The good news is that we still have lots of room for improvement and we are only mid-way through the season.
Under 16
Newtown Strikers vs Corio White 1-15
This week the U16 Strikers were short two of our regular players, and despite having some very willing-and-able fill-in players from the U14s (Chelsea and Albie – thank you both!), Corio White proved too strong.
The final score was 15-1, with Parker finding the back of the net for the Strikers.
Division 1 Women
Newtown Falcons vs Geelong White 1-2
In another gutsy performance, both Newtown and Geelong had a number of scoring opportunities but unfortunately luck was on Geelong’s side on the day. Regardless, it was nice to farewell Audrey with a top quality game and as a group we’ve really appreciated her efforts the past few seasons (hopefully this won’t be the last we see of her). With a week off for the King’s birthday weekend, it will give the team a chance to rest and reset for the games to come.
Division 2 Men
Newtown Falcons vs Torquay Tornadoes 2-2
Division 2 Women
Newtown Strikers vs Corio 3-3
Another come from behind draw against Corio! This shows the determination of all the players to do their best and never give up.
Corio scored twice in the first half with sneaky touches in the circle which bypassed the defence despite great efforts from Ricki, Tash and Kayla. Good movement in the forward line by Tilly, Lara and Kristy created some opportunities. Tash scored our first goal after a strategic push back to her on the short corner, allowing her to split the defenders on the line.
The second half saw Strikers increase the speed and pressure on the opposition with Hanna and Jess working hard to get the ball forward, resulting in a lovely goal from Hanna on the right side of the circle which found the left corner of the goal. Great defence by Hannah CC slowed the Corio forays down their right side and allowed Strikers to return the play to our advantage. A further goal to Tilly and the game was back to a draw. Great work by all.
