Morning all! I hope you’re all managing to keep warm and dry in this awful weather! I guess winter has arrived in the Manawatu all at once. Please remember that all training and playing grounds may be closed by the council if the weather remains bad, and to check our Facebook page and the Central Football website for game cancellations or field allocation changes over the next few days incase this weekend is affected by the downpours.
Last weekend was a rollercoaster for our senior teams, with big highs and lows.
The Chillmax 1sts had a controversial match; after an official referee was not provided for the top of the table clash, coaches and players were left to control a fiery match against Hokowhitu. It was only due to a goal in the eleventh minute of overtime that Hokowhitu managed to squeak a 2-1 win, ending the unbeated streak that the 1sts had been fighting to maintain. A glorious long-range shot from Trevor Munn which struck the crossbar to be bundled in by a team mate for a goal earned him Player of the Day.
The Glory had another disappointing game, losing out against a strong, young Feilding side in a 3-0 match. Coach Ben Ellis noted that the Feilding side have been making great strides since playing in the men’s leagues, and it’s great to see fantastic young footballers being supported in our community; even if this week it proved to be at Takaro’s loss.
The Dribblers had a shaky start to their match against Hokowhitu, with the Hokowhitu Socials putting pressure on the defense and keeper. Once the Dribblers warmed into it, however, their excellent teamwork and communication secured them a convincing 8-1 victory, including a stunning goal from the halfway mark by Phil Wakely. The whole team had a solid game, but for tireless defense and attack play, Muzza Grimmer took Player of the Day.
Sunday saw the Maiden’s have their first bye of the season, and get a chance to avoid this volatile weather for the weekend. Manager Bill says their rested up and rearing for their next game.
The cold and rain affected some junior teams’ numbers, but that didn’t stop most of players and parents (gumboots and umbrellas in tow) coming along for a great morning.
The First Kicks had their smallest turnout so far, but with 10 players coming along, there were plenty of wee footballers to keep everybody busy and entertained. This week the team worked through their drills and games independent of another club, and for her great work on the ball, Eva Holtslag was the Player of the Day.
The 7th Grade had a few players missing too, but those who came had nearly as much fun jumping in the puddles with Coach Dan as they did with the drills! A tight game against a Hokowhitu side saw the players using what they had learned to improve their ball skills. Player of the Day was Hunter Taylor for a great all-round effort.
The 8th Grade Magpies were hit the worst from the weather, with multiple players and Coach Jocelyn taken out by illness. The team defaulted this weekend, but are looking forward to next week’s game.
The 11th Grade Lions had a wonderful game against Ruahine, with the score line tight all the way to the end thanks to great team work and wonderful goals from Shoviq Deo and Aidan Brown. Player of the Day was Ryan Clark for a stellar effort in goal.
The 12/13th Grade Foxes had their first proper weekend in the 13th Grade, and ably stepped up to the challenge, battling hard against Ruahine. While they weren’t victorious on the day, it was a particularly well played game by all involved, with some great skills on display, especially by Player of the Day, Malakai Booth.
This week’s shout-outs go to Ian Stewart and Sommer Rickard from First Kicks’ Coach Adrian. They helped him out with the drills and organising the players. All our junior coaches rely on the support and assistance of parents, so it’s great to see some getting involved with our littlies.
As always, if you have a great photo of one of our Players of the Day, or any of our players, parents, coaches or volunteers in action, or a shout-out you’d like to have included, email us at contact@takaroafc.org.nz
Until next game day, yours in Football,
Rachel
