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"The views and opinions expressed below in the following previews and reviews are those of NCFZ clubs. They do not reflect the opinions or beliefs of North Coast Football Zone. While NCFZ reserve the right to edit inappropriate material we trust that the material submitted by club publicity officers is of a professional and respectful standard."
- Bob Harris. NCFZ Operations Manager
» 30/08/10: 1st Div Men Results/Reports Round 18
» 30/08/10: 1st Div Women Results/Reports Round 14
» 23/08/10: Penultimate round wrap up
» 23/08/10: 1st Div Men Results/Reports Round 17
» 23/08/10: 1st Div Women Results/Reports Round 13
» 19/08/10: Yamba relegated, Westlawn promoted
» 17/08/10: OVER 35s - Revised draw for last 3 rounds
» 16/08/10: 1st Div Men Results/Reports Round 16
» 16/08/10: 1st Div Women Results/Reports Round 12
» 13/08/10: 2nd Division Round-Up
» Previous News
30/08/10
1st Div Men Results/Reports Round 18
Coffs Coast Tigers 11 Yamba Breakers 0
Youth: Coffs Coast Tigers 3 Yamba Breakers 1
Photo: Presentation of Premiership trophy to the Coffs Coast Tigers team
Coffs Coast Tigers Seal the Premiership
On Sunday at the Tigers Lair spirits were high as all and sundry knew a win for the Tigers over the bottom of the table Yamba would confirm their status as Premiers for season 2010.
Yamba club officials spruiked the news that they had brought 22 players for the last match of the season proper, which was their biggest road trip contingent for the entire season.
Tigers' youth grade keeper Luke Kleindheinst started his first 1st division match in goals and didn't disappoint, keeping a clean sheet in his 45 minute cameo. From the outset the Tigers looked to score goals and the chances flowed freely for the flamboyant attack.
Luke Stow was in the thick of the action on the Tigers left flank. Often Stows' boots or football brain was the catalyst for a Tigers attacking raid. At half time the score was seven nil and on the score sheet were Kodjo and David Adjassou, Otis Barney, Luke Stow, and Dane Dixon.
The Yamba keeper through great reflex saves almost single handedly kept Yamba's deficit to single figures with a tireless first half effort blocking at least half a dozen would be goals.
The Yamba side though outplayed should be commended for the spirit in which they play the game. Never a negative word and seldom a malicious tackle. Let's hope they can achieve their aspirations of a return to the top flight in 2012, the more road trips the better.
The second half was more of the same as The Tigers were rarely troubled in defense, closing the match out at 11-0, though coach Baumgartner and everyone concerned knows that next week is where the mind is cast, the match up against the second placed Lions and the Tigers bid for the first allotted place at the grand final in a bid to take all silverware in 2010.
Photo: Coffs Coast Tigers players get their hands on the Premiership trophy
Sawtell Scorpions 0 Northern Storm Thunder 1
Youth: Sawtell Scorpions 3 Northern Storm Thunder 0
It was 2nd last versus 3rd last at Toormina Oval on Sunday afternoon as Sawtell hosted Northern Storm in a game which would be the last of the season for both teams.
In the only game of the weekend that had no bearing on the top four, it was a dire spectacle with neither team having anything to play for.
Photo: Sawtell Scorpions v Northern Storm Thunder - Photo by Tim Klingbiel
In the first half there were no clear-cut opportunities for either club and it looked as if the teams would go to the break at 0-0.
This was until a terrible goal kick on the stroke of half-time by Sawtell saw the ball roll to the feet of a Northern Storm striker who only had to slot the ball into the bottom corner of the net to make it 1-0 to the Storm with the last kick of the first half.
As the second half continued it was much the same as the first with no clear opportunities for either team. The score line remained 1-0 at full-time in front of a disappointed crowd.
This result and the lack of quality football showed why both of these teams won't be featuring in this year's semi-final campaign.
In Youth Grade Sawtell won 3-0 to book their place in the semi-finals.
Photo: Sawtell Scorpions v Northern Storm Thunder
- Photo by Tim Klingbiel
- Report by Jake Glover, Sawtell Scorpions
Coffs United Lions 2 Urunga Raiders 0
Youth: Coffs United Lions 0 Urunga Raiders 3
Another beautiful day on the coast greeted the two combatants once again at the 'new den'. With the Lions a mathematical chance of the minor premiership, plenty was at stake for the Coffs team to put on a quality display of football.
The match started at a frenetic pace, with both sides not giving an inch, as solid tackles were being thrown into the mix. Both keepers were being tested for the first half and as the half time whistle was blown, scores were level.
The second half started much as the first finished with both sides trying to push the envelope offensively. For much of the match, it looked as though the game was heading for a draw, when a piece of brilliance by young Nick Lambert broke the deadlock.
The Lions' coach Danny Milliken seized the opportunity to blood a few of the younger players into first grade, and they performed exceptionally well in the blustery conditions.
Late in the match a quick throw was taken, and as the Raiders were blowing up at the referee, Ben Mackay coolly crossed it to Flippa Wiseman whose shot was deflected into the back of net.
It was relief for the wee man, as he saw his shot in the first half clear West High St. And that's how it ended, 2-0.
- Report by Glenn Williams, Coffs United Lions
2nd Report...
The final game of the North Coast Football Competition was played out at Maclean Street last weekend - Coffs Lions V Urunga Raiders. Last time these two met the Raiders were successful 2-1 and finished off the first half of the season in good position; amassing 5 wins 2 draws and 2 losses.
Not the case now though as the result of this match would have exactly zero impact on the final four positions. That said there was 90 minutes of football to be played and it's usually a hotly contested match between the two sides.
Blayne Whiteman the referee in charge, as the teams got down to it with the Raiders facing a stiff cool breeze in the first half that would make things difficult for both sides. The Raiders started well, which seems to be their usual modus operandi: bodies in motion, flick passes accurate, good shape across the park and the odd scoring opportunity.
The first falling to Harry Gale on 14 minutes. Arlen Horton took possession of a loose ball near the halfway point and found Ben 'level 1 technician' Dooley on the left flank. Dooley, although closely marked, was able to completely fool the Lions defenders with Jedi like skills and fire in a cross for Gale to meet on the far post. It looked good right up until Lions' Nathan Hansford cleared just before Gale could nod in. It was a good move; the Lions reacting at this stage of the match with their coach Danny Milikin clearly unimpressed with what he was seeing.
The Raiders next opportunity fell to Nic Schilter who had been sniffing around the top of the penalty area like an old dog. Small and thin and of tender years Schilter, the Lions thought, presented only minimal threat but Nic caught the ball on his huge chest controlling well under some pressure, spun left and volleyed only inches wide.
It capped off a good half for the Raiders into the wind and 0-0 at the beak.
The Lions did better in the second stanza as the match became somewhat heated at times with players colliding with each other on a regular basis. Josh McGovern was always a handful for the Reds though, either via his football skills or just his annoying banter.
Anyhow, Macca set off downfield at pace, driving around Anthony Wiseman whose intended tackle may have seen Macca land in a different postcode. Macca bounced a pass off Dooley and then got smashed under the tackle of 2 Lions defenders. Great run lacking only a good finish.
The Lions' Nick Lambert put the Lions 1 up midway through the second half. Lambert raced onto a wide ball and hit a first time looping shot that dipped into the top corner to give the Lions a 1 goal advantage which soon turned to two after Raiders' defender Jaxen 'the mailman' Heward delivered into his own net. Call it a collection of defensive errors or perhaps the increasing Lions pressure. Heward, in a desperate attempt to cover a threat, was in exactly the right spot for the Lions shot to rebound into the Raiders net leaving Raffe Brennan in situ.
So there it finishes for the Raiders: 2 down and now looking at 2011 for another chance. The Lions march on to the finals with the Coffs Coast Tigers sealing the Minor Premiership with an emphatic 11 blot romp over Yamba.
In other results the Raiders' Youth side crept into the top four via the aligning of several planets and a 3 goal win in a sterling performance. Goals to 'the Chiss', Lee 'butterbean' Kennedy and Sinai Shaul will see the youth play Sawtell in the elimination final (probably at Maclean on Saturday).
- Report by Tom Campbell, Urunga Raiders
Woolgoolga Wolves 4 Orara Valley Dingoes 2
This was a mouth watering clash, the Wolves had everything to play for up against an Orara side that although they were out of finals calculations had a point to prove. The usual High Street southerly was gusting away & favoured the Dingoes as referee Bruce Mackie got us underway.
There was a large contingent from both clubs on hand to see if the Wolves could perform a Houdini act & make the final four for the first time since 2006. To put it in perspective, the Wolves had ended the first round on 9 points with only 3 wins & would have to win 8 from 9 in the second round to have any chance of making the 4 & only then if the match between Maclean & Boambee didn't end in a draw.
The Wolves started brightly & had all the early chances but the two central defenders Todd Barden & Joel Finlayson were cleaning up everything & it appeared obvious that the Dingoes were going to make the Wolves work extremely hard if the were to secure a win.
After 12 minutes the Dingoes found themselves on the attack for the first time in the match & made the Wolves pay when the defence failed to deal with a through ball that fell nicely for Brent Turner who hit a cracking drive from the edge of the box that gave the Wolves keeper Alex Byrne no chance.
The Wolves were now chasing the game, but as they have done so readily in the second round they responded quickly to get back on level terms when Jesse Hinds won the ball decisively in the midfield & then weighted a lovely pass to Evan Duryea who took a touch before firing a scorching drive that just snuck inside the post to defeat a desperate dive from Dingoes keeper Josh Harrigan.
The Wolves continued to create chances & pressure the Dingoes' defence, but resolute defence & some outstanding saves from Harrigan kept the scores level.
With half time approaching, Orara again took advantage of a Wolves defensive lapse to win the ball & fire in a cross that keeper Alex Byrne could only parry into the path of striker Richard Yarnton who finished clinically to put Orara up 2–1 as the players headed for the sheds.
The Wolves were playing poorly, behind on the scoreboard & running into a stiff southerly in the second half. Could they turn it around in the second half or were their second round heroics going to prove fruitless & result in another year of what if's?
The first 15 minutes of the second half was a real arm wrestle as both sides played some very enterprising football: Orara looking to put the game beyond the Wolves, who were desperately trying to get back on level terms.
The Wolves' stocks took another nosedive when livewire striker Anthony Baston was assisted from the field with a suspected broken ankle & was replaced by Lindsay Athorn whose fresh legs & determination were to be decisive as we entered the final 30 minutes.
Within 10 minutes of taking the field, Athorn stormed onto a pass down the right before cutting inside & laying the pass off to Brad Vines who again found Athorn in space inside the box. As he received the ball he was adjudged to have been fouled & referee Mackie had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Mark Coster stepped up to take the crucial shot & made no mistake: burying the ball in the top left corner. The Wolves were back on level terms but still with plenty to do if they were to win the game.
The game opened up even more from this point as both sides threw players forward to secure the win with Orara hitting the post after keeper Byrne was well beaten. Lindsay Athorn again created havoc for the Orara defence with only a great one on one save from Harrigan denying the Wolves a third goal.
Harrigan was again called on minutes later when a superb free kick from Mark Coster looked goal bound before Harrigan pulled off a miraculous save to keep the scores level.
With time running out the pressure finally told on a tiring Orara outfit which had run itself ragged. A slick passing movement between Brad Vines & Navrin Deane created space for Deane who finished deftly from 10 metres to put the Wolves ahead for the first time all afternoon.
As we approached the 90 minute mark the Wolves won a free kick 20 metres out & in the ensuing attempt, the ball cannoned off the wall & into the path of Mark Coster who poked away his second of the afternoon as the Wolves ran out 4 – 2 winners over a gallant Orara side that played their heart out all afternoon.
The Wolves, on the other hand, can consider themselves a little fortunate as they played poorly in patches but showed enormous character, determination & stamina to prevail in the end. The match was played in great spirit & both sides adjourned to the Seaview Tavern for a BBQ & some well earned refreshments.
With Maclean securing a hard fought 2–1 win over Boambee the Wolves have secured 4th spot & will now face Maclean Bobcats in a sudden death semi final next Saturday at the Maclean Showground in what should be cracking game of football.
Youth: Woolgoolga Wolves 3 Orara Valley Dingoes 0
The Wolves faced the 3rd placed Orara Valley who were desperate for a win to secure 3rd place & a home semi final. Orara started brightly & with the advantage of the fresh southerly dominated possession for long periods of the half but resolute defence from the Wolves kept the game scoreless as referee Jason Kelly brought the first half to a close. After the break the Wolves used the wind intelligently to continually pressure Orara & two second half goals to Mitch Johnston & one to evergreen striker Scott Wighton saw the Wolves run out comfortable 3 – 0 winners.
- Report by Warren Alder, Woolgoolga Wolves
Maclean Bobcats 2 Boambee Bombers 1
Bobcats Earn Home Final
The Maclean Bobcats have boosted their chances of defending their premiership after a hard fought 2-1 victory over the Boambee Bombers at the Maclean Showground on Sunday.
The win sees Maclean finish in third position at the end of the regular season and gives them a home semi final to look forward to next weekend against a resurgent Woolgoolga Wolves outfit.
The win also snuffed out Boambee's premiership aspirations with the result meaning they drop from third to fifth and out of the finals completely.
With both teams throwing their seasons on the line the match was understandably a tense encounter. Both teams were reluctant to press too far forward, opting for a more defensive approach, though with the wind at their backs the Bobcats managed to dominate territorial possession and keep the Boambee keeper busy. He was forced to make a number of early saves from long range efforts and a string of fierce headers from Bobcats captain Kev Crofton.
It wasn't until the 25 minute mark that the Bobcats broke through and settled some in-house nerves. A delicate dink through from Jesse Browning released Brodon Hirst who showed class and poise to chip the approaching Boambee keeper into the empty net.
At this point Boambee were struggling to deal with a string of corners from the Bobcats and 10 minutes later Hirst rose highest to meet a Jarrod Doyle delivery to thump home a header to make it 2-0.
The Bobcats would have been looking to take this seemingly comfortable lead into the break but in the shadow of half time, mercurial Boambee striker Brady Parker was given too much space and thumped home from the edge of the area with his least preferred right foot to make it 2-1 and bring Boambee firmly back into the contest.
The second stanza was an extremely tense affair. With the wind at their back Boambee came surging looking for the equaliser which would have stitched up third position on the table. Only a few minutes in they were desperately unlucky to see a shot cannon of the woodwork and preserve the Bobcat's slender 2-1 advantage.
The key moment came mid way through the second half when free kick specialist Parker unleashed a stinging shot from 30 metres. Bobcat keeper Graeme Courte looked beaten for all money but a full length dive and a strong hand palmed the goal bound shot around the post to safety. Courte made another fine save before full time as the Bobcats held on for a memorable and critical win that sealed a home semi final.
The Bobcats will be hoping that Courte can continue his fin form into the semis where he will surely be well tested on many occasions. Two goal hero Hirst and the ever reliable Travis Armstrong were among the other Bobcats'
stand outs on the day.
Youth: Maclean Bobcats 2 Boambee Bombers 0
The Bobcats' Youth Grade signed off with one of their best performances of the year beating second placed Boambee 2-0. A 30 metre thunderbolt from Riley Elvery opened the scoring and Matt Bryant netted the second goal after half time. The result left the Bobcats Youth team agonisingly close to the semi's but just outside.
- Report by Peter Smajstr, Maclean Bobcats
Terry Allen
Media Officer
North Coast Football
Email: 
Terry Allen
30/08/10
1st Div Women Results/Reports Round 14
Boambee Eagles 1 Coffs United Lionesses 1
A cool and cloudy Ayreshire Park greeted two sides with plenty to play for: Coffs needing to win the game to take out the minor premiership and of course earn the all important home final, whilst the Boambee side was looking to keep their momentum going, ahead of the semi final series.
The match opened just as you would expect for a game of this importance, featuring spirited exchanges in the midfield with neither side really gaining ascendancy in the first 15 minutes.
Boambee midfielders were starting to find some space with Josie Helsma and Sioban Deam creating opportunities out wide whilst the introduction of Jess Barrett into the game caused more headaches for the Coffs defence. Constant pressure from the Boambee side led to an error in the 18 yard box from a Coffs' defender with a penalty awarded for a hand ball. This was converted by Kylie McDonald to see Boambee in front 1-0.
The Coffs girls came back hard at the Boambee side creating plenty of work for the back four and stand in goalkeeper Sheridan Watkins. The next 10 minutes saw the ball travel from one end of the field to the other culminating in a scramble in the Boambee goal mouth which saw the Boambee keeper beaten by a wicked 'Boambee' bounce. The teams went to half time locked together at 1–1.
The second half was an entertaining affair with neither side able to really take control and the ball travelling from end to end with enterprising and crisp play.
Twenty minutes into the second half saw Boambee awarded a corner with Jess Barrett delivering the ball perfectly to the near post only to see two players so committed to the ball that a sickening head clash saw both attacker and defender left motionless on the ground. The Coffs player was carried from the field and later taken to hospital – our very best wishes for a speedy recovery.
The rest of the game was played with intensity seeing both teams creating opportunities to win the game which were thwarted by solid defence and good goal keeping.
In the dying minutes, Kiera Plumbe created by far the best chance of the second half in beating 3 defenders and unleashing from just outside the 18 yard area only to see the ball hit the cross bar and sail over the posts with the keeper well beaten.
Rowena Freeman and Lyn Duncan were outstanding in defence whilst for Coffs, Nicole McVicar was everywhere.
- Report by Robert Young, Boambee Eagles
2nd Report...
The Lionesses limped home at the Ayreshire graveyard to secure a top two finish thanks to an Ashlee Mackie special after numerous shots again found the safety of the goalies' hands.
The football was tense & the closeness of the score produced the anxiety of a final. In the end the Eagles grabbed a draw with a penalty which was a little against the run of play.
It was a hard fought encounter with Coffs missing several key players, which made it interesting and further casualties in man of match Elle May McKnight concussed in the 50th minute left the cupboard bare.
Great efforts by Chloe Whighton, Ashlee & Baija Rooney gave the Lionesses the second chance they deserve after losing only 1 game all year.
Credit to a disciplined Boambee outfit keen to show their worth. The match finished 1-1.
- Report by Kerry Albert, Coffs United Lionesses
Coffs Coast Tigers 1 Northern Storm Cyclones 2
Tigers and Storm put a huge effort into their last game of the season, both determined to score the first goal. Tigers came out attacking strongly keeping a majority of the possession throughout the game.
Tigers were having shots on goal left, right and centre but good saves by the vigilant Cassie Wakewood ensured Tigers were going to have to work harder to score. Many shots were made by Hannah Wilson, Racheal Mounter and even from long distance by Chantelle Wendt, however all going wide or to the keeper.
Some good runs down the sideline from Storm caught Tigers defence off guard with a quick cross from Amanda Riley going straight to the foot of Isabella Craig to slot it past the keeper making the score 1-0 at half time.
The second half was a repeat of the first, and once again Storm had a chance on the 14th minute with Jessie Reeves in the goal mouth who made no mistake to hit the back of the net. However, Tigers fought back desperate for a goal and in the 19th minute there was a superb cross from Hannah Wilson out wide to find a series of rebounds in the goal mouth, including Chantelle Wendt's head, eventually coming to Rachel Mounters's feet who finally scored after a scramble.
After an argument with the referee about a penalty from a potential shot at goal, Tracey Pinch was sent off with a red card to leave the Tigers with 10 players for the rest of the game. Tigers showed further great plays and teamwork but they were not reflected in the end score of Storm's win 2-1.
- Report by Diana Walker, Coffs Coast Tigers
Sawtell Scorpions 0 Urunga Raiders 4
Woolgoolga Wildcats 4 Corindi Red Rock Breakers 1
Division 2
Coffs United 1 Urunga 0
The last game of the round in Div 2 Women's football was to determine 2nd place. With 1st place having been secured by Maclean several weeks before, Coffs and Urunga went to the Den with the winner being guaranteed 2nd spot and the right to fight Maclean for an early Grand Final birth.
As expected the game was a tight tussle. Urunga's first half attack was highlighted by diagonal penetrating balls switched from one flank to deep inside the Coffs penalty box on the contralateral side. Fortunately for Coffs their backs and keeper had this sorted and did not concede.
Coffs attacked predominantly through the central midfield giving good penetrating ball to the forwards that resulted in several shooting opportunities. Coffs converted early with a ball that was cut back from Tahlia to Jo at the top of the penalty box and driven inside the left post past the impressive Urunga keeper to rattle the back of the net.
Dominating the first half, Coffs were unlucky not to increase their lead with 3 shots hitting the cross bar and a couple of others well saved by the efforts of the Urunga keeper.
The second half became a bit more of a bustle compared to the first where much better football had been played. Positionally, there was less structure from both teams and possession was frequently given away. The Urunga girls did not give in but could not convert any opportunities.
Credit must be given to the Lionesses, especially the defensive line who kept the Urunga girls scoreless. The Coffs girls played with heart right to the whistle. Their best opportunity for the 2nd half came to Sara at the death with a great placed shot being turned round the post by a diving Urunga keeper for a corner.
The corner was taken, the whistle blew for full time and a very happy bunch of Lionesses were pleased to grab second spot.
- Report by Joanne Munn, Coffs United
Terry Allen
Media Officer
North Coast Football
Email: Terry Allen
23/08/10
Penultimate round wrap up
Boambee women secure finals berth,
Woopi men hang on by a thread
In a dramatic penultimate round of North Coast Football 1st division, the women's finalists have been determined with only the order of the final standings yet to be revealed while five teams can still make men's finals heading into the last day.
Women's 1st division
At Polwarth Drive, the Boambee Eagles saw off Coffs Tigers to help them secure enough points to claim their first place in the finals campaign since 2006 when a number of quality players came into the club and brought their talent with them.
This time, however, the Boambee club can definitely point to hard work amongst its ranks as the reason for success.
The highlight of the season so far was undoubtedly the win over the previously undefeated Urunga Raiders.
Photo: Boambee Eagles secure 4th spot in Women's 1st Division - Photo by Terry Allen
From that moment on the rest of the competition, and perhaps even the players themselves, knew something big was happening at Boambee.
The Eagles deserve their spot in the finals and it was last year'’s Grand Finalists, Corindi Red Rock Breakers, who made way for them.
Coach Neil Witherdin has every right to feel proud of his efforts, however a tough grind is ahead as the Eagles finish the regular season by taking on the number one side, Coffs United, and then a possible elimination match with Woolgoolga Wildcats in week one of the finals.
The Wildcats are a team the Boambee girls have struggled to overcome in recent times, however only two points separates first from third this year so the Eagles could yet play the Wildcats, Lionesses or even Urunga in the finals depending on what happens this Saturday.
There are several possibilities:
A) The favourites all win & everyone stays in the current order (Boambee will finish fourth no matter what happens in the final round).
B) Boambee beats Coffs United, Sawtell beats Urunga & Woolgoolga beats Corindi, in which case the final four would be: Woolgoolga, Coffs Utd, Urunga & Boambee.
C) Woolgoolga wins, Coffs Utd lose & Urunga draw: Woolgoolga, Urunga, Coffs Utd, Boambee.
D) Woolgoolga loses or draws, Coffs Utd loses or draws & Urunga wins: Urunga, Coffs Utd, Woolgoolga, Boambee.
E) Coffs Utd win, Urunga draw or lose & Woolgoolga win: Coffs Utd, Woolgoolga, Urunga, Boambee.
You get the picture. Coffs United will want to stamp their authority on the competition with a win over Boambee this weekend, but their draw with Sawtell on Saturday has left them with the wobbles, although with Urunga losing on the same day, it actually worked in their favour.
Sawtell could still throw a spanner in the works by taking points off Urunga this weekend, which would seem to benefit Woolgoolga (who would love two bites at the cherry) and naturally Coffs United, who would get the home qualification final.
But for now, it's congratulations to Boambee Eagles who will no doubt train with extra vigour & enthusiasm this week.
Men's 1st division
The final four is a long way from decided in Men's 1st division, but we can say who will not be there: Urunga dropped out of the race on Sunday when they fell at home to Woolgoolga. They join Orara Valley, Northern Storm, Sawtell & Yamba in preparing for their last match of the season this Sunday.
Woolgoolga Wolves are the only club not in the four who can still make it. With seven wins out of the last eight matches, Woopi simply will not let go of the dream. The boys in blue have finished just outside the top four every year since their last finals appearance in 2006. Can the Wolves grab enough points to make the four in 2010?
This has been a frustrating year for the Wolves. Early in the season, their form in 1st division was nothing like that which they displayed in the Solo Cup, but in the past two months they have beaten everyone in the comp except the Lions, showing they would be a serious threat if they make it, but they are not there yet.
The Wolves have what it takes to beat Orara Valley this weekend, but crucially would finish on 33 points, just one ahead of both Maclean & Boambee who must play each other. This means should the Bombers and Bobcats have a draw, Woolgoolga will have to pack their bags.
What Woolgoolga will be praying for, obviously, is that someone will take all three points in that fixture at Maclean Showground. Woolgoolga's goal difference is simply too far behind to work in their favour. To illustrate the point, if there is a draw at Maclean on Sunday, Woolgoolga would only make the final four by beating Orara 19-nil.
It’s an all too familiar scenario for the Wolves: heading into the last day with a chance provided other results go their way & they will be cursing themselves for some easily dropped points early on. However, Woolgoolga is good enough & if there is a winning goal at the picturesque Clarence River on Sunday, the Wolves should leap over the loser of that match & play finals football.
Coffs Tigers have top spot in the premiership sewn up needing only to win against Yamba to earn the home qualification final while Coffs United have clawed their way back from the brink early on in the season to wrap up second. The Lions play Urunga & whilst the Raiders could certainly win this one, it will not affect the final standings.
If you're looking for a 100-1 shot, you could imagine Yamba holding the Tigers to a draw while Coffs United beat Urunga 4-0. That would hand the premiership to Coffs & signal the greatest fight back in living memory.
Mind you, no one has won anything yet & last year's losing Grand Finalists could still lift the trophy in September. They have a habit of doing that & it would be hasty to bet against them.
Terry Allen
Media Officer
North Coast Football
Email: Terry Allen
23/08/10
1st Div Men Results/Reports Round 17
Orara Valley Dingoes 2 Coffs Coast Tigers 5
Youth: Orara Valley Dingoes 1 Coffs Coast Tigers 1
With no hope of making the semi finals, Orara Valley Dingoes were playing for pride on Saturday. After losing 3-0 last time they played each other, Orara had all the motivation to beat the Tigers. Added motivation was the fact that no team had beaten Orara at the fortress of the Dairyville recreation ground.
The match started positively for Orara with striker Brent Turner making a magnificent run through the middle past 3 defenders and cooly slotting the ball into the bottom left hand corner.
Orara leapt onto the front foot probing for a second goal, however the Tigers keeper did well to cut out the numerous balls into the box. However soon the pressure would tell when Orara striker Dylan Louden with his back to goal was fouled in the back resulting in a penalty. Dylan himself stepped up to take it and making no mistake slotted the ball into the net.
However after this things just went wrong for Orara.
Using their long known strategy of kick and run, the Tigers' defence played a long ball up to the Tigers' striker pairing. However this time the ball was not dealt with and, with precision, the Tigers striker finished with ease. Then again almost straight after using the same technique a second was scored to leave the scores 2-2 going into half time.
The second half was to be a half where the Tigers showed their premiership credentials. Using skill, speed and flair, the attack of the Tigers stretched the Dingoes' defence numerous times and, despite the best efforts of the defence and keeper Xavier Taylor, the Tigers managed to score 3 more before the end of the game, leaving the final score 5-2.
- Report by Sam McLoughlin-Wilden, Orara Valley Dingoes
Sawtell Scorpions 1 Maclean Bobcats 3
Youth: Sawtell Scorpions 1 Maclean Bobcats 1
Saturday night saw the clash between Sawtell Scorpions and Maclean Bobcats at Toormina Oval. Maclean came into the game as favourites as they continue to push for a top four spot, while the Scorpions are playing for pride with only 12 points all season.
The game started fairly evenly with not many shots on goal and a lot of build up play being foiled before any real threat. After 20 minutes however, Maclean were in front after a tackle in the box by Matt Parkins on Kevin Crofton was adjudged to be a penalty. The resulting spot kick was then converted to make the scores 1-0.
It wasn't long until another Sawtell mistake gifted Maclean their second. A mix up in the Sawtell defence saw Ryan Hayes stripped of the ball on the edge of the 18 yard box and the Maclean striker made no mistake with his one on one opportunity with Sawtell's keeper Rhys Watson, making the score 2-0 at half-time.
The second half continued in a very similar manner to the first, with the majority of the game being played in the middle of the park and very few clear-cut chances on goal.
As the half progressed however, Sawtell were forced to chase the game and take more risks in attack. Maclean were defending well and quick counter-attacking football saw them nearly extend their lead as they hit the woodwork on one occasion and were denied on another due to the desperation in defence of Andrew Benson.
They didn't have to wait long to get their third anyway, with another attacking raid making the score 3-0 and handing all 3 points to Maclean.
With 10 minutes to go Tye O'Connor scored a consolation for the hosts with a well worked move down the right hand side to make the final score 3-1 to the Bobcats.
- Report by Jake Glover, Sawtell Scorpions
2nd Report...
Bobcats back in the hunt
The Maclean Bobcats moved a step closer to securing a semi final position with a hard fought 3-1 win over the tricky Sawtell Scorpions on Saturday. Smarting from their shock loss to the Northern storm last weekend, the Maclean side knew they had to lift their game dramatically or risk missing the finals only a year after famously holding the premiership trophy aloft.
This positive do or die attitude was evident early as the Bobcats started well and controlled much of the early possession. It did however take half an hour for them to make the most of their dominance and breakdown the Sawtell defence when Kev Crofton burst into the box with a penetrating run from midfield before he was brought down for a penalty. Brodon Hirst stepped up to be the Bobcat's fifth penalty taker of the season and whilst he dispatched the dot shot for 1-0 lead the finish was not as convincing as he would have liked.
Taking the lead seemed to settle a few nerves and on the stroke of half time the Bobcats deservedly doubled their lead when Jesse Browning stole the ball from the Sawtell defence and coolly side footed the ball home past the oncoming keeper to make the score 2-0 at the break.
Sawtell emerged from the sheds rejuvenated and had the Bobcats under some serious pressure early in the second half in what was a much more even contest than the first. The Bobcats defence held firm though and with 20 minutes remaining Crofton got on the end of a Jarrad Doyle free kick to nod home the Bobcats third goal and effectively end the contest.
In the shadow of full time Sawtell's efforts were rewarded with a close range goal to see a final score line of 3-1.
As the season moves closer to finals time coach Grant Neilson would have surely been impressed with defensive linchpin Gary Carmichael who was outstanding in snuffing out much of Sawtell's thrusts and then starting a lot of Bobcats attacks himself. Jess Browning was equally as effective up front in the absence of star striker Fraser Robinson.
Next week the Bobcats host Boambee in the final round of the NCF season in what could realistically be a playoff for third position and a dress rehearsal for the following week's minor semi final. The Bobcats won't be resting on their laurels as only a win will be enough to secure a crucial home semi final.
In Youth Grade the Bobcats semi final chances were extinguished with a 1-1 draw against Sawtell. Pat Delaney was the goal scorer for Maclean yet again illustrating he has been the shining light in Youth Grade all year.
- Report by Peter Smajstr, Maclean Bobcats
Urunga Raiders 0 Woolgoolga Wolves 1
Youth: Urunga Raiders 5 Woolgoolga Wolves 1
The Raiders and Wolves were like Abbot and Gillard going into this one except that a drawn match would virtually eliminate both sides. Nothing separated the teams ladder-wise with points the same, goal difference same but with only one round left and both sides really in 5th position, the winner would win more than the game: they would keep their finals aspirations alive. For the loser, umm, well she's all over.
So much at stake and 90 minutes to see who was the more deserving as the sides took the field with the pre-spring sunshine belting over the Cabbage Patch and Bruce Mackie in control.
Greg McCoy, the Raiders' coach, must have enjoyed these opening moments. The Raiders were dominant both territorially and possession wise. They were in command. Slick movement had the Wolves on the back foot from the get go.
Josh McGovern unlucky not to put the Raiders one up on six minutes as he stole into the Wolves' area and volleyed over the bar from very close. Tutty the next to have a crack as he and Wolves' central defender Stan Russ tangled outside the Wolves' area. Tutty slipped right and Russ slipped over. Tutt's shot though fizzed emptily past the far post.
The frustration the Wolves were feeling showed soon after as Grant 'red bags' Homes weaved up-field like a drunk man on the way home from the pub no-one seemingly able to tackle the tricky fellow. Well, big Stan could and snapped 'red bags' in half exactly 5mm outside the Wolves penalty area gaining the first yellow card of the afternoon in the process.
Ahh the cries of penalty from players and home crowd went totally unheeded by referee Mackie who calmly awarded a direct free kick. It was so close and to make it worse, nothing really came of the free kick.
One last chance of the half presented for the Raiders. A sweeping move initiated by Ben 'level 1 technician' Dooley finding Jaxen Heward who in turn steered the ball cleverly for Mitch Tutt to run onto. Tutty's 'shoss' (cross between a shot and cross - hope that clears it up) net-bound until the finger tips of Wolves' keeper Alex Byrne pushed the ball out of the net and over Harry Gale who had arrived on the far post to nod in a certain goal.
Not to be though: 0-0 at the break and a chance for Wolves coach Russ Vines to go to plan B which soon started to show on the field as the Wolves stole into the game. Navrin Deane and Anthony Baston working well together at the pointy end of the Wolves' attack and presenting problems for Mick McCormick who really hadn't had that much to do so far.
It was Grant Homes who almost stole the limelight as he threaded his way into the Wolves area. Homes feinted around one defender, boned the next and proceeded goal-ward all to cries of 'he's gunna dive!' Homes then flicked a pass off to Harry Gale whose shot did not trouble Bryne. It was breathtakingly clever from Homes, he was on fire (and I'm not talking about his hair).
The game then went through a series of free kicks. Lots of free kicks, none of which were threatening and both sides seemed to clam up at this point, perhaps thinking too defensively.
Well Antony Baston wasn't. As a Raider attack petered out Baston found room and the ball on the right flank. He fought off the challenge of one defender & rolled around another to fire in what would prove to be the winner.
With only minutes remaining the Raider's fought tooth and nail to get an equalizer but to no avail. The Wolves running out winners 1-0.
- Report by Tom Campbell, Urunga Raiders
Northern Storm Thunder 0 Coffs United Lions 4
Youth: Northern Storm Thunder 2 Coffs United Lions 6
A windy day at the 'Cove' saw a good crowd arrive to see two teams who had last start wins.
Coffs, with no Ben Mackay and Flipper Wiseman on the bench, were quick off the mark and the Storm spent most of their time defending. It was obvious early that the Storm were off their game and nowhere near the frame of mind they had the previous week.
Midway through the half an injury forced Nathan Silvy from the field and brought Flipper Wiseman on. Still the Storm scrapped in the danger zone with Frank La Spada leading the way.
It took some Wiseman magic from outside the box to finally open the scoring and beat keeper Keegan. Halftime the Lions led 1 nil but the writing was on the wall.
Photo: Nick Lambert was closely marked by Frank La Spada - Photo by Tim Klingbiel
The 2nd half saw Coffs come out and chase everything down and put pressure on the Storm passing game which can be described as ordinary at best on this performance.
During the half Coffs would score 3 more goals through pressure, communication and good passing not to mention the ever deteriorating game of the Storm. Coffs appear to be peaking at the right time of the season and again will be hard to hold out.
The less said about this performance by the Storm the better although Frank La Spada can hold his head high as the score would have been much worse without him.
Photo: Tristan Albert flicks a header on for his Storm's team mates - Photo by Tim Klingbiel
On a positive note young striker Ryan Cole may have played his last game at the 'Cove' as he weighs up offers from the Gold Coast and Sydney. Whilst the Storm will sorely miss Ryan who is a local junior we wish him all the best if he does decide to accept these offers.
Youth League was another indifferent performance by the Storm but again the bright light there is two good goals by Robbie Bradford and another performance by Mitchy Beal from our U/16s. Best for Coffs was Tim Higgins who is also another Storm junior.
- Report by Rob Manning, Northern Storm FC
2nd Report...
A warm sunny Sunday at the Cove, where else would you want to be? Boss Breton's Northern Storm taking on the North Coast Football Powerhouse Coffs United Lions. United would be without main strike weapon Ben Mackay who was missing after being concussed last week. Flipper Wiseman was on the bench after a knock midweek at training.
The game started out with both teams putting passes together in the middle of the park, but defence was the name of the game in the first 30 minutes with both teams happy to get behind the ball.
Mike Swarbrick injected himself into the game from the back and hit an absolute scorcher only to see a fantastic save from the Northern Storm keeper. Nathan Silvy looked to have been hit by a sniper and was taken off with serious ligament damage. Not a good sign for coach Milliken. His replacement was Flipper Wiseman, who was only going to be used if necessary, and necessary it was because at this stage Northern Storm were dictating play and creating a few chances.
Flipper was put up front with Nick Lambert and Reece Shaw was moved back to centre midfield. The game was only a few minutes old for Flipper when he unleashed an absolute thunderbolt off his left peg that left the Northern Storm keeper flapping for air. Nothing could be done about this one, and even Boss Breton had to applaud at the quality of this goal.
1-0 at the break, United looked good, Storm hanging on. After last week's upset win over Maclean, surely there was some belief that they could get back in this match.
The second half erupted with a flurry of passing from United with Shaw and Kelleher controlling the middle. Nick Lambert came close a few minutes in, but a fantastic reflex save from the Storm keeper kept the score line at 1-0.
United were slowly winning the arm wrestle and Reece Shaw was rewarded for his hard work with a well finished goal that put the visitors up 2-0 and now coasting over a Storm outfit which was now looking a little tired. However the hard work from La Spada, Skinner and Captain Turner shouldn't go unnoticed because they worked tirelessly all day.
Ryan Cole was getting frustrated at the level of service he was receiving from United's back 4 and he couldn't breathe without the likes of Swarbrick, Baydrian, Bull or Hauville kicking him for it. His frustration soon came to the boil, receiving a yellow card for a bad challenge on United captain Sam Mackay.
United continued to push for a 3rd and received a corner. Flipper put in a pinpoint cross to meet an unchallenged Lambert who headed one home as he does so well. United 3 up and now coasting.
Tim Higgins was injected into the game, much to the delight of the Storm as they are chasing his signature for next year. He dominated down the left side and his crosses should have resulted in more goals.
Marty Kelleher finished the game off in style beating 4 defenders and slotting one into the bottom right corner to give United an emphatic 4-0 victory on a Storm side that may have played their best game last week. This game may have brought a few problems for Coach Milliken with the likes of Silvy, Wiseman and Mackay all nursing serious injuries.
The day started off well for United with their Youth Grade getting up 6-2 and winning the Minor premiership in the process. 2 goals to Tim Higgins, 2 goals to Dan Wiseman, Nathan Hansford converted from the spot and captain Aaren Allsop finished off beating the entire team with a slotted left footer. A brilliant season for these guys which made their coach extremely happy and will now have to foot the bill for a promised party.
- Report by Adam Wood, Coffs United Lions
Boambee Bombers 11 Yamba Breakers 0
Youth: Boambee Bombers 1 Yamba Breakers 0
Whilst the Yamba club has struggled in 1st division this year, it certainly has not been from a lack of effort. The Yamba senior men travelled to Ayrshire Park for the first time this year and whilst the score reflected 11-0 to the Bombers, the commitment from the Yamba players and officials was first class.
The Bombers started slowly but eventually wore down the tiring Yamba team with classy finishing and a sound awareness that they may need the extra goal difference in the coming week.
Best for the Bombers were Trent Backhouse and Brady Parker, with Matt Hughes scoring four goals. It is also worth recognising that without the class and effort of Rod Menzies in the Yamba goal the score may well have reached record heights yesterday.
Youth: 1-0 to the Bombers. A disappointing effort from the young Bombers who eventually did enough to win 1-0 against a spirited Yamba youth team. best for the Bombers were Brad 'the Guru' Boyle and Nick Secombe.
- Report by John Newell, Boambee Bombers
Terry Allen
Media Officer
North Coast Football
Email: Terry Allen
23/08/10
1st Div Women Results/Reports Round 13
Coffs Coast Tigers 0 Boambee Eagles 6
The Eagles started off in great style scoring a goal in less than a minute after kick-off,
reminiscent of the Tigers' experience last match. The Tigers had shown some stern defence to keep the Eagles down to two goals in this hard fought first half.
Shots at goal by the Tigers were hard to come by as their opposition wrestled the ball or elicited errors on many occasions to gain possession and move rapidly up field to potential scoring positions only to be denied by desperate defence by the Tigers' scrambling backs and goalie.
In the second half goals in the 16th and 35th minutes put the match well beyond doubt, but the Tigers still fought grimly and made the match an entertaining spectacle as the game moved frequently between ends.
The Tigers had more scoring chances in this half but failed to press any home. Kylie McDonald was outstanding for the Eagles with two late goals just on full time taking her tally to four out of a six nil result.
One was a classic piece of football with a near perfect corner shot from the Eagles headed in by the ever present McDonald.
Other goals for the Eagles were scored by S. Watkins and K. Damn. Helen Moseley was outstanding for the Tigers making a huge running contribution in both attack and defence while Ellyce O'Grady was not far behind her.
- Report by John Walker, Manager, Coffs Coast Tigers
Sawtell Scorpions 1 Coffs United Lionesses 1
Never under estimate Sawtell scorpions playing at home!
Coffs Lionesses started the game by totally dominating the first 10 minutes.
Once the Sawtell girls finally managed to get the ball their solid team work was superb. They turned it on for their penultimate game.
Sawtell matched the Lionesses and their defensive line was tested but held strong. Half time arrived with the score at nil all.
The second half started with both teams matching each other in intensity. At the 50 minute mark, the first goal was scored by Rebekah Kokaev centre field after a great run up the right wing by her sister Georgina.
In the final 20 minutes the Coffs Lionesses increased their determination and put Sawtell under amazing pressure.
Photo: Sawtell FC's sole goal scorer Rebekah Kokaev in one of many encounters with a determined Coffs Lionesses - Photo by Jo Stewart
Photo: The match was played in good spirits on both sides, with the final result being a 1 all draw
- Photo by Jo Stewart
Sawtell held strong until a hand ball was called inside the box with 10 minutes to go.
Savannah Geddes stepped up & managed to get the ball past keeper Laura Valentine, who had a fantastic game.
- Report by Fiona Berrington, Sawtell Scorpions
Coffs United Lionesses Report...
Sunny Sawtell greeted two teams playing for different reasons on Saturday: Coffs for a chance at the premiership and Sawtell for pride. As pride would have it, the Scorpions dished out some of that & serious attitude too to score against the play and lead 1-0 well into the second bit. One shot on goal & got it.
Camping in enemy territory meant nothing for Coffs and innumerous shots on goal once again proved that shots don't count, goals do. 12 corners to nil but without too many excuses, the Lionesses didn't extend themselves when needed and were lucky to escape a 1-1 draw. Elle May a standout in an average display.
Last week's play was a distant memory & they will welcome back several key players soon to bolster numbers.
The premiership beckons but will require greater resolve to convert next week against Boambee.
Best : Elle May McKnight, Kassie Downie again and a special mention for the Sawtell goalie who was very good.
Northern Storm Cyclones 1 Corindi Red Rock Breakers 4
After an encouraging performance against Boambee the previous week the new look young Cyclones would face another stern test against Corindi who for the first time in many years would not be playing finals.
The Cyclones, who have drafted several 15 year olds into the team, found the experienced Breakers girls tough and chased the ball early in the match. To their credit they settled down and were unsettling Corindi, setting an offside trap which was effective. Corindi scored after the flag stayed down and were up by 1.
Photo: Corindi's Laura Hall moves the ball before the Storm girls can get to it - Photo by Terry Allen
The Cyclones then had 3 scoring chances with Jessie Reeves and Amanda Riley hitting shots that skimmed the bar and young Paris Wardell cutting through for 1 on 1 with Chloe Bartlett, but inexperience saved the scorers. A great effort by the 15 year old.
Corindi then scored a nice goal with some good interchange passing. Halftime and Corindi up by 2 but the Cyclones had had the better of the half.
Soon after halftime, the Cyclones pulled one back after some good play that pressured the Breakers' backline. This seemed to stun the Corindi girls who then got back to business with some good passing and tough play with Kaneisha Warren usually involved.
Cassie Wakewood was at her normal best and the battle between Emma-Jane Manning and Kaneisha Warren was heating up, as is usually the case.
Disaster for the Cyclones came after Wakewood kicked out from goal and a misguided attempted back heel fell to the Corindi strikers who, through numbers, got their 3rd goal. They soon scored again, but to their credit the young Cyclones kept attacking and Elicia Webber was unlucky on 2 ocassions.
Final score was 4 to 1 to Corindi but with more experience the Cyclones could have reversed the result.
- Report by Rob Manning, Northern Storm FC
Woolgoolga Wildcats 1 Urunga Raiders 0
With only four points separating the top three teams and a tough draw to close out the regular rounds, Woolgoolga Wildcats still remained hopeful of a top two finish.
But after a poor result last week against Coffs United, the players were a little less confident as they prepared to host the competition front runners, Urunga.
The game proved a battle from the start and Woolgoolga appeared to have the better of the attacking chances.
As everyone has come to expect, Urunga's keeper was on her game and pulled off a number of great saves. This, combined with a handy backline, showed why the number of Raiders' goals conceded remains in single figures for the season.
Photo: Janice Lacy tries to find a way through the Urunga defence - Photo by Terry Allen
Part way through the first stanza, the Wildcats were awarded a corner which was taken by Ashli Deane. The ball curled deceptively toward the Urunga keeper, who managed to get a touch, but the ball continued toward the far post and crossed the line before it could be cleared by the Raiders' sweeper.
The linesman was in good position and the goal was awarded to Woolgoolga despite protests from the Raiders' players.
The second half played out in a similar way to the first, with both teams creating a number of scoring opportunities. As time began to run out, Urunga stepped up a gear and continually infiltrated the Wildcats' half. Woolgoolga found themselves scrambling in defence, while the home crowd were looking anxiously at their watches.
Urunga's best chance came when the Woolgoolga keeper took a number of grabs at a looping shot. The Raiders felt they had scored and the same linesman was again called on, deeming that the ball failed to cross the line.
Photo: The Wildcats' Renae Newlands cleans up at the back before Urunga's Loren Caban can get hold of the ball - Photo by Terry Allen
A flurry of shots by the Raiders in the dying stages of the game were off target, leaving the score 1-nil to Woolgoolga at the final whistle. Wildcats' Player of the Match went to the sole scorer, Ashli Deane.
- Report by Teresa Fowler, Woolgoolga Wildcats
Urunga Raiders Report...
With the kick off underway both teams were quick to attack and apply even pressure on the ball. It was going to be a struggle for the Raiders down six regular first grade players with injuries, the dreaded wog and other commitments.
Raiders attacked the goal first but a good save kept them at bay. The play was from end to end and with the Wildcats' hunger for the ball needing some great defence work by Sam Snow throughout the game. It also produced some great saves by the Raiders' keeper and a very determined backline.
A corner awarded to the Wildcats saw some scrappy play in the box. When the ball fell in the goalmouth area, the Raiders' defense claimed it had not gone in, however the linesman deemed the ball had crossed the line. One nil to the Wildcats. This was to be the final outcome of the game, although the second half saw opportunities for both teams.
A lack of commitment to training was bringing its toll on the Raiders. Play continued with both teams fighting for possession of the ball in the midfield.
Injury to a Wildcat saw only one and a half minutes of injury time added and the countdown to hold out a strong finishing Raiders squad was on with several attempts on goal pushed wide. The best chance for Raiders was a replay of the Wildcats' goal but the ball was deemed as not to have crossed the line. Wildcats breathed a sigh of relief.
A big thank-you must go to the players that backed up from 2nds & played some very hard & committed football.
Well done Wildcats: a game played with great sportsmanship and determined play.
- Report by Judy Archibald, Urunga Raiders
2nd Division Women
Northern Storm 0 Coffs United 9
Two weeks out from finals, the 3rd placed Lionesses had not given up hope for a 2nd spot finish. The Coffs girls knew that a win against the Storm would put them in contention for 2nd if they could back up with another win in the last round against the current 2nd runners Urunga.
First things firs:. Coffs took a while to settle into the match against the girls from Korora. Good passages of play through the midfield initially went unconverted. About 15 minutes in, a strong shot by Renae could not be held out by the Storm keeper - 1-0.
For the remainder of the first half, the Lionesses found their strengths. Moving the ball around well with lots of one-two passing, the Coffs girls cut through the Storm defence. Capitalising on this possession, the Lionesses started to put away their chances with a hat trick to Tahlia, 2 to Jo and 2 to Nicole.
Coffs took the field for the second half confident but unfortunately they could not continue to finish the way they did in the first half. Despite Coffs dominating possession Storm did a great job only conceding one goal. A great shot by Carmen from outside the 18 yard box flew into the back of the net bringing well deserved cheers from her Coffs team mates.
The final score ended 9-0 with Coffs knowing that they still had a lot of work to do for the rest of the season. A great effort by newcomer this year Laura Marshal who was a deserved winner of the Mangrove Jack's players-player.
- Report by Joanne Munn, Coffs United
Terry Allen
Media Officer
North Coast Football
Email: Terry Allen
19/08/10
Yamba relegated, Westlawn promoted
The Yamba Breakers have been relegated from the North Coast Football men's 1st division competition after a narrow loss to Sawtell on Saturday. In front of their home fans, Yamba took to the field needing three points to at least have a mathematical chance at staying in the top flight.
A 3-1 defeat to the Scorpions locked in the fate of the team which seemed to be coming for quite a while in a season which brought forth no wins and only one draw for their solitary competition point.
President Craig McDonagh was philosophical about the team's fate.
"We knew it would never be easy to compete in 1st division, but honestly I don't think we ever put the same 11 on the park two weeks in a row," McDonagh said. "Not only that, but I reckon last year's team [which won 2nd division] was actually stronger. Unfortunately, we had a heap of older players retire after the Grand Final and that left us short," he added.
Club stalwart and goalkeeper Rod Menzies agrees and can see some positives coming out of the season.
"Whilst Yamba's debut season in 1st Division was clearly not the greatest, our club is extremely proud to have been given the opportunity by North Coast Football to compete at the highest level in this region.
"Our club, especially our Youth, will have gained some valuable experience and season 2010 will go down as a watermark point in our club's history and we hope in the not too distant future to again compete in 1st Division," Menzies said.
The place in the top flight left vacant by Yamba will be gratefully accepted by Westlawn Tigers who emulated Newcastle United's feat in the EPL of being relegated one year and gaining immediate promotion the next.
The Tigers have been the standout team of the 2nd division competition, in no small way thanks to the retention of their Youth Grade team which won the 2009 Grand Final.
"We have hit a purple patch recently," said Tigers' co-coach John Nelson in the aftermath of promotion to 1st division.
With a Youth Grade side that good in 2009, it was always going to be a tough ask to get ahead of them in the race for promotion, however Nambucca Heads made a real go of it. Saturday's loss to Westlawn was Nambucca's first loss of the entire season, however their six draws made the tilt at promotion impossible.
The Tigers can now enjoy a week off with the bye coming at just the right time in the draw, before a final regular season hit out against Sawtell Scorpions, last year's 2nd division Grand Final runner-up.
For Yamba there is no let up. A clash with 3rd placed Boambee this Saturday followed by front runners Coffs Tigers who will need a win to secure the premiership top spot.
They may not have many competition points to show for it, but Yamba certainly get an A for effort & the other clubs wish them well in 2011 & a speedy return to the big time.
Terry Allen
Media Officer
North Coast Football
Email: Terry Allen
17/08/10
OVER 35s - Revised draw for last 3 rounds
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16/08/10
1st Div Men Results/Reports Round 16
Woolgoolga Wolves 2 Coffs United Lions 3
This was surely the match of the round. The Wolves were looking to make it 7 in a row against the 2nd placed Lions who would be looking for redemption after last week's mauling at the hands of the Tigers.
The usual High street southerly was absent for a change but there was an unusual easterly blowing across the ground that would make conditions unpleasant for both teams.
But the sun was shining & a large crowd was on hand in anticipation of a cracking game of football.
Photo: Coffs United Lions' Scott Goddard & Woolgoolga's Nathan Miller-Tucker - Photo by Terry Allen
The Lions kicked off a little after 3.00pm & instantly found Scott Goddard in space on the left. The winger, using skill & speed, flashed down the left touchline before centring to an unmarked Ben Mackay whose first time shot thundered into the post before being cleared by the Wolves' defence. The Lions could have easily been 1 up within the first minute & certainly signaled their intentions that they had come to play.
The Lions continued to dominate play with deft passing & great running off the ball to create space & continually stretch the Wolves' defence. The Wolves, on the other hand, were struggling to get into the match as they constantly turned over possession & it looked like the Lions might hand them a football lesson. However the Wolves managed to soak up the pressure & playing with the self belief that comes from winning 6 on the trot, they slowly started to click into gear & after 20 minutes they exerted some pressure of their own.
Breaking out of defence quickly, tireless midfielder Jesse Hinds found space down the left, before working a clever passing interchange with James Palmer that opened up a great opportunity for Hinds' to strike on goal only to see Josh Wiseman pull off an excellent save. The game was really starting to open up as both sides moved the ball with precision & skill that kept both defences stretched to the limit, although it must be said that the Lions with Ben Mackay up front always looked like the side most likely to post the first goal.
The Wolves defensive general Stan Russ was playing his normal robust game, leading from the front & driving his troops relentlessly to keep the Lions attacking threat at bay, but it nearly came unstuck at the 35 minute mark when a poor defensive clearance landed at Ben Mackay's feet who quickly slipped a neat ball to Scott Goddard who unleashed a fantastic curling shot that looked in from the time it left his boot. With extraordinary agility the Wolves' custodian Alex Byrne thrww himself up & to his right to parry the ball over the bar & pull off one of the saves of the season & deny the Lions their first goal.
Photo: Coffs United's Nick Lambert takes evasive action as Nathan Silvy pulls the trigger
- Photo by Terry Allen
The next goal scoring opportunity fell to the Wolves when they again broke swiftly down the left through young defender Mitch Duryea who fired a great pass to James Palmer who used his speed of foot to get in behind the Lions' defence before delivering a pinpoint cross that found a rampaging Brad Vines whose lunging strike on goal flashed just wide.
With half time nearly upon us the Lions won a corner & in the Wolves desperation to clear the ball they were deemed to have fouled a Coffs player & the referee pointed to the spot. Ben Mackay stepped up to take the penalty & slotted the ball away clinically giving the Wolves custodian no chance despite going the right way. This was absolutely gut wrenching for the Wolves who had answered all the challenges for all but the last 30 seconds of the half. The Lions on the other hand were cock-a-hoop & would go to the dressing sheds with a 1 goal advantage & full of confidence.
As both sides lined up for the 2nd half the question on everyone's lips was how would the Wolves respond & they didn't have long to wait. From the kick off the ball was moved swiftly to Anthony Baston who made a typical barnstorming run down the left before finding Jesse Hinds who had overlapped to receive the ball in space before firing in a dangerous cross that was deftly pulled down by Mark Coster who in turn unleashed a withering left foot strike on goal that thundered into the back of the net giving Josh Wiseman no chance. The Wolves faithful were up out of their seats cheering their team who were now back on level terms.
Again from the restart the Lions nearly made the Wolves pay for a their lack of urgency & concentration as Nathan Silvy beat a couple of would be defenders before hitting a long range shot that cannoned off the crossbar & back into the field of play.
The Wolves couldn't afford to relax for a minute if they were to fulfill their aspirations of taking all 3 points from this encounter & after 53 minutes of play they hit the front for the first time when Brad Vines hit a great shot with the outside of his left foot that Lions keeper Josh Wiseman could only parry at full extension into the path of Anthony Baston who had followed in the shot & made no mistake from close range. The Wolves were up 2 – 1 but one sensed that the scoring was far from finished in this game.
Both sides continued to attack & the crowd were being treated to some of the best football of the season as the two teams searched for goals.
Parity was returned when the Lions won a free kick 22 metres out, which was struck with consummate precision by Anthony Wiseman curling around the wall & into the top right of the net despite the Wolves keeper somehow getting a glove on it.
With the scores now level the game was set up for a barnstorming finish as both sides looked for a win, rather than close up shop & settle for a draw.
Photo: Woolgoolga's James Palmer gets the ball first in this well timed tackle - Photo by Terry Allen
The tension mounted as the clock ticked away toward full time & despite chances at both ends with the Lions again hitting the bar & the Wolves coming close on several occasions, the scores remained deadlocked.
With time almost up, the Lions won a crucial throw in deep in Wolves territory & the resulting long throw confused the Wolves defenders looking into the sun. It fell perfectly for Ben Mackay who headed home from close range to give the Lions a hard fought & vitally important win.
The Wolves were gallant in defeat & can hold their heads high as they showed true Wolves spirit in the face of adversity to almost snatch a point against arguably the best football side in the competition.
Congratulations to the Lions who are again set to give the competition a real shake, whilst the Wolves must win their last 2 games to now have any hope of making the four.
The game was fiercely contested but played in great spirit & a large contingent of players & spectators adjourned to the Seaview Tavern for a BBQ & some well earned refreshments.
Youth: Woolgoolga Wolves 0 Coffs United Lions 2
The Wolves faced the league leaders Coffs Lions who are 4 points clear & looking the team to beat in this year's youth league competition. Despite the Lions having the better of the first half both sides went to the break at 0 – 0.
The second half was only 5 minutes old when the Lions finally converted their weight of possession into a goal. They added a further goal 15 minutes latter to lead 2 – 0, however the Wolves had their chances missing a penalty despite two attempts & several other chances which would have made the game interesting, although it must be said that the Lions played the better football on the day & thoroughly deserved the three points.
- Report by Warren Alder, Woolgoolga Wolves
2nd Report...
A blustery afternoon greeted the players in another cracking first grade encounter between Woolgoolga Wolves and Coffs United Lions. Referee Nigel Hayes blew time on and it was United kicking off into a stiff Fremantle Doctor type breeze. United kicked off, cut out ball to Scotty Goddard, who cut it inside to Nick Lambert who beats Woolgoolga custodian Alex Byrne all ends up but he couldn't get it past the upright. United should have been up 1-0 after 15 seconds.
Tackles were flying with United captain Sam Mackay on the receiving end of some brutal challenges. His pace giving the Wolves back 4 some trouble. Brad Vines and Flipper Wiseman were cancelling each other out in the midfield battle and Woolgoolga were happy to let Navrin Dean run at the United defence at any chance he got, which was swiftly dealt with by Hauville, Baydrian and Swarbrick.
The first half was coming to a close when United received a corner. An challenge in the air on Martyn Kelleher had Nigel Hayes pointing to the spot. Ben Mackay calmly converted to send the Lions into the break 1-0.
Woolgoolga should have felt hard done by as they worked hard as a unit for the 45 minutes only for this hiccup to eventually hurt them. United's heads were up heading into the sheds and Woolgoolga's were down as each coach got ready to talk tactics while his troops munched on some oranges.
Woolgoolga walked back onto the field with their season on the line, the likes of Mark Costa and Stan Russ inspiring their troops to hopeful glory. One thing in United's favour was the absence of Navrin Deane. The pocket dynamo worked tirelessly in the first half and may have been the answer to Woolgoolga's problems.
Woolgoolga kicked off and played some outstanding football, keeping the ball away from a frustrated United. Eventually, Woolgoolga received a corner, United failed to clear it and it was played in to danger man Mark Costa, who had about 10 minutes to put it past United Custodian Josh Wiseman. 1-1 and game on. The Wolves were now salivating and little old ladies were chasing their hats as the wind was playing havoc with everyone.
United were struggling with Woolgoolga regular Anthony Baston and he was trying to lead from the forward line. He did just that when United failed to clear again with Nathan Slvy unusually losing it in the middle of the park. The ball travels to the wide man then inside to Baston who beats his marker and somehow gets it under Josh Wiseman who was furious at his back 3 for a allowing the goal. 2-1 Woolgoolga, wind ruining my hair and a football game in process.
Woolgoolga are not easy to beat at any ground let alone the wind tunnel that is the grave yard. To their credit, Woolgoolga did not park a bus like most teams do when they get into the unusual postion of beating United and there were still tackles flying all over the field. Ben Mackay was getting his usual treatment by majority of backs in the NCF and one was pulled up about 25 yard out from Woolgoolga's goal. Anthony Wiseman steps up, and I'm taking bets that its going to end up in Coffs Harbour with his track record. It's down wind, Woolgoolga seem to have an entire team in the wall, United are 2-1 down and the goals some how look smaller at the southern end. Flipper hits an absolute cracker that gave Alex Byrne no chance. They could have had 3 keepers and it was going in. They will not have to clean the spiders out of that corner for a while. 2-2 and game on.
Tactical changes by Danny Milliken saw Nathan Hansford replace Martyn Kelleher. Hansford was thrown straight into the deep end with James Palmer running tirelessly at the United defence.
United were trying to get a strangle hold of this game and the Wolves were not giving them an inch.
Time was ticking away and a draw looked like the obvious result. Sam Mackay, United's captain, worked continuously down the right and was rewarded with a throw in not long from time. The long throw from Mackay bounced over the Woolgoolga defence, over Alex Byrne and a tap in header to Ben Mackay.
Woolgoolga looked like they had just been kicked in the throat and this may have just cost them a spot in the final 4 thanks to some Mackay brother heroics.
Final whistle 3-2 to a fighting United, who are well in the fight with Coffs Coast Tigers for that elusive Minor premiership.
Woolgoolga now go back to the drawing board and look to next week as they take on a difficult Urunga Raiders.
Earlier in the day United edged out a stubborn Woolgoolga team 2-0 in Youth grade. Steve Meakins the hero with a double penalty save.
- Report by Adam Wood, Coffs United
Maclean Bobcats 0 Northern Storm Thunder 1
Bobcats Shock Loss puts Finals in Jeopardy
The Maclean Bowling Club Bobcats First Division football team suffered a shock upset loss to a gutsy and determined Northern Storm outfit in the weekend's round of the North Coast Football First Division. The Bobcats went into the match with their sights set firmly on the teams above them and with designs and hopes of winning the minor premiership. Now they are looking nervously over their shoulders at the chasing pack of four teams all jostling for positions in the ever tightening race for a top four semi final spot.
A tricky away assignment to Sawtell next week and what could be a last round showdown for a semi finals spot against Boambee could see the Bobcats miss the finals for the first time in many years if they can't win at least one of those games.
In truth, the match against the Storm was pretty well one way traffic. The Bobcats opened up with their crisp passing game and the Storm set out to defend and stem the tide. Within the first 20 minutes the returning Jeremy Walters had hit the bar and had two one-on-one opportunities brilliantly saved by the Storm's man of the match goalkeeper. Time and again he repelled the Bobcats' attacks at the last line and then on the half hour mark the Storm got away their first and only shot of the match and scored through Tristan Albert. The Bobcats continued to push forward until the break but could not breach the Storm goal and went in at half time trailing 1-0.
The second half continued along a similar theme with the Bobcats attacking constantly but the Storm were bravely sticking to the their defensive tasks. On the rare occasions they received some service, Albert and strike partner Ryan Cole were working hard and making things tricky for the Bobcats on the break.
The longer the match went the more tense things got before it exploded in controversy with five minutes to go. A through ball saw Bobcats' flyer Jarrad Doyle jostling into the area with a Storm defender and the Bobcats won a penalty kick. Travis Armstrong stepped up and dispatched the ball into the bottom right hand corner with aplomb and looked to have drawn the Bobcats level, but referee Steve Durou ruled that one of the Bobcats had encroached into the penalty area and made Armstrong take it again. The decision left the Bobcats players bewildered. Armstrong sent the second effort over the bar and the Storm held on for a memorable and hard fought victory.
Best for the Maclean outfit were Kevin Crofton and, on debut, youngster Sam Finlayson played exceptionally well.
Youth: Maclean Bobcats 7 Northern Storm Thunder 2
In Youth Grade the Bobcats had a comfortable 7-2 win to keep their slim semi final hopes alive.
- Report by Peter Smajstr, Maclean Bobcats
2nd Report...
STORM OUTLAST BOBCATS
A depleted Storm squad made the annual journey to Maclean very upbeat about their chances and quietly confident. After a very unusual Youth League match where yellow was the color of the day the match kicked off.
Maclean dropped into their crisp passing game but the defensive structure set out by coach Breton was holding firm and that combined with Adrian Keegan's excellent keeping was frustrating the home side.
Robinson was continually searching for space but was well marked by Nathan Skinner and Frank La Spada was cleaning up any scraps. The real battle was on the left with Jeremy Walters up against Michael Turner and it was to continue for nearly all the match.
Despite having an abundance of ball Maclean were on most occasions shooting from outside their comfort zone and not really on their game. With Aaron Bylos not available the Bobcats seem to rush their game and panic on occasions.
After half an hour a well worked midfield move found the flying Ryan Cole who attracted 2 defenders and he calmly passed off to Tristan Albert whose shot eluded the keeper to put the Storm up by 1.
It must be said the poor surface did not assist either keeper so that was making Adrian Keegan's performance for the Storm even more outstanding. Halftime and the Storm were up and the crowd was quiet.
The 2nd half was more of the same but the Storm were creating nice chances down the right and the pace of Albert and Cole put extreme pressure on the Bobcat's backline. As the half wore on and the yellow cards were continually in the air the small band of Storm supporters gained confidence and hope that maybe today luck would be on their side.
With time almost up a clash in the area was waved play on by the referee however his assistant was boldly waving his flag. After a brief discussion a penalty was given on the spot. Travis Armstrong stepped up and beat Keegan who went the right way only to hear the referee's whistle call them back for a false start. Would the Storm keep riding their luck, Armstrong stepped up again and this time didn't even trouble Keegan blasting the ball well over the bar and almost out of the park.
From the goal kick the whistle blew for fulltime and Maclean were devastated. Both sides retired back to the Maclean Bowling club and the Storm boys could look forward to a great bus trip home.
Men of the match were Adrian Keegan and Kevin Crofton
Youth League was a win to Maclean 7 goals to 2. The Storm fielded a very young side which was to be guided round the park by 'Boss Breton' who not only brought the average up but got on the scorecard.
- Report by Rob Manning, Northern Storm FC
Coffs Coast Tigers 3 Urunga Raiders 1
On a rather windy Sunday afternoon at the Lair the Coffs Coast Tigers hosted a Urunga Raiders outfit that simply has to keep winning to maintain any aspirations of a top four finish in 2010. The Tigers on the other hand knew three points would keep them two points ahead of the Lions at the top of the table.
A canary yellow clad David Thorn blew time on and the game began like a boxing match without the punches. Both sides were happy to sit back and wait for a controlling influence on a match that for the first half an hour lacked any spark or passion to play quality possession football.
The rare windy conditions at the Lair must have affected the style of match played as time after time both sides plundered long balls high beyond the parameters of the pitch. The match struggled for any true rhythm in the first stanza as the contest ebbed and flowed from free kick to free kick.
There were chances to take the lead afforded to both sides, though the Adjassou brothers and Otis Barney were forced into hasty shots, which failed to hit the target, by the Urunga defense.
Urunga though were trying to play football but too often the final pass went astray of a maroon and white shirt. For the Raiders, Mitchell Tutt was always ready to pop like a champagne cork from the bottle as he found himself with two or three good opportunities to give the Raiders a first half lead but the target was missed.
Jake Mahoney in goal for the Tigers was called upon on no less than three occasions to defend the Tigers net towards the end of the first half. From point blank range Mahoney got gloves on and pushed wide these attempts from the Raiders with poise and precision.
The Tigers who were only stringing two and three passes together in the first half of the match knew they had to improve and a slight lift in intensity late in the first half allowed them to benefit from better field position.
It was from within this period of play that in the short breaths before half time Kodjo Adjassou was put into space wide into the right hand corner near the goal line only to be cut down by a Raiders' defender not far from the corner flag and goal line. David Adjassou crossed a great free kick from the shadows of the corner flag to the back post and for the second week in a row it was Otis Barney who hovered high to head the ball into the Raiders net.
Referee Thorn blew half time at the immediate resumption of play and the Tigers gained a slender first half advantage.
Tigers' coach Baumgartner urged his troops to eliminate the panic football and assured his side that with composure would cometh the goals.
The second half got under way and the Raiders were trying to get back into the match though again it was a similar story as the side line often ended any early chances in the second half for the Raiders.
The middle fifteen minutes of the second half was where the game was defined. Mitchell Tutt had two great chances to place a shot past the Tigers' keeper from the six yard line but on one occasion got side netting and the other forced a freakish save from Mahoney. Shortly after this fruitless but dominant period for the Raiders, one swift move from the Tigers sealed their second goal. Kodjo Afan combined with Luke Stow and Kodjo Adjassou - starting and finishing the Tiger's best move of the match - to run two thirds of the pitch and calmly place a shot into the bottom left of the net and put the Tigers two up and ruffle a few Raiders feathers.
This sparked the Raiders' Coach Greg (the real) McCoy to chase the game in the last twenty five minutes as he brought on attacking players from the bench in an effort to give his side the chance to get back into a match which they could have led at several points throughout.
Only five minutes later it was the enigmatic Mitchell Tutt again with the chance to get the Raiders on the board. This time he placed his shot calmly from the same blades of grass that his earlier misses came from, to somewhat exorcise his shooting demons.
At this point The Raiders were in the thick of it and with twenty minutes to go the Tigers faithful were wondering if the capitulation against Woolgoolga two weeks ago was going to re-occur. After surviving a ten minute surge by the Raiders for an equalizer, the Tigers consolidated their lead when good work in defense by Trent Lakeman won possession for the Tigers. Lakeman then passed to Rhys Lamrock who layed on a precision ball for Kodjo Adjassou to get in behind the Raiders defense to place his shot past an advancing keeper.
The final score 3-1 to the Tigers who maintain top spot on the ladder, which leaves Urunga in the familiar battle for third and fourth spots which are still open to five sides with only two regular season rounds left.
Man of the Match for the Tigers was goalkeeper Jake Mahoney whilst best on ground for the Raiders was Mitchell Tutt.
Youth: Coffs Coast Tigers 2 Urunga Raiders 4
In Youth Grade the Tigers slumped to a loss after leading the match at two nil. The Raiders came back to score four unanswered goals against a Tigers side that failed to defend from the front which has brought them some big results in the past weeks. Tigers 2 Raiders 4.
- Report by Curt Dixon, Coffs Coast Tigers
2nd Report...
The Raiders were their own worst enemy last weekend at the Tigers lair aka Polworth Drive. At least three clear cut chances to score but missed them all, any one of which may have put the Raiders in the driver's seat for proceedings.
The first on 6 minutes after Dom Kelly used his huge chest to control a flighted ball. He nipped around one defender and flicked a brilliant ball over the Tigers' defence to find Ben Dooley who advanced on the Tigers' keeper unopposed but could not find the net.
The second opportunity came on 16 minutes after Grant Homes weaved a path through midfield and fired a pass to find Harry Gale on the far post. Marked by fresh air, Gale measured the shot and miss-kicked. Now you might think that's OK: 90 minutes will produce many scoring opportunities for both sides, but the first half at least was being played like Spasky v Fischer (chess).
Every Tigers move was countered by a disciplined Raider defence and vice versa. Neither side willing to overcommit to attack and risk being caught by a quick break The Raiders very aware of the destructive power of Barney and Adjassou: it was almost a stalemate. That is right up to 1 minute before the break.
Barney had moved down the right flank at light speed and looked like streaking in behind the Raiders' defence until Mick McCormick terminated the run, giving the Tigers a free kick just outside the Raiders' penalty area on the right side. The ensuing free kick perfectly delivered for the Tigers' Kodjo Afan to head in on the far post. Clinical finish and really about the only opportunity to fall to the Tigers in 45 minutes, but what a way to go the break.
The second half saw both sides play more openly. The Tigers looking to release Barney or Adjassou via well placed through balls while the Raiders were more methodical: pass and move type stuff.
It was working to some extent and only 7 minutes into the second half the Raiders' 3rd golden opportunity eventuated. Quick interchange passing that involved Tutty, Dooley and Homes, who seemed to be the nexus of most Raider attacks, found Gale in some space on the left side. Again marked by fresh air Gale's first time shot though whistled over the bar.
The Tigers were quick to snuff out any hope that might be building in the Raider outfit. A left side move eventually found Otis Barney who moved into firing position and scored the Tigers' second. Good finish from a limited build up and the Tigers digging in, perhaps thinking of the premiership?
Still 30minutes to go and the game not over yet as the Raiders started to find holes in the Tigers' defence and for the next 20 minutes played the sort of football that would make any coach smile. Simple pass and move good decision making, plenty of enterprise and produced a goal scored by Mitch Tutt. Tutty had been denied minutes earlier by the outstretched hand of the keeper but not this time as he placed the ball low and left and the Raiders were back 2-1, but only briefly.
It was Kodjo Adjassou who sealed it for the home side. With 5 minutes left he sprinted onto a through ball and rounded Raiders' keeper Raffe Brennan to put the Tigers 3-1 up and deliver 3 valuable points, perhaps enough to seal the premiership for the Tigers.
The Raiders have Woolgoolga at the Cabbage Patch this Sunday followed by the Coffs Lions the week after.
In other results the U/19's had a great win after conceding the first two goals scored the next 4, three by Sinai Shaul and one to Steve Savage.
- Report by Tom Campbell, Urunga Raiders
Boambee Bombers 3 Orara Valley Dingoes 2
Historically the contests between the Dingoes and the Bombers are usually hard fought and passionate affairs where playing in the spirit of the game is given high value.
Sunday's game was no different with the Bombers and the Dingoes both eyeing one of the two available semi spots and both desperate to gain credibility as finalists in this year's competition.
The game started disastrously for the Bombers with a spring loaded Orara opening the scoring within the first two minute.
Photo: Orara attacking - Photo by Michelle Newell
Boambee then scored 2 minutes later leaving the scores locked at 1-1 after only four minutes of play.
The game then became a bit of a slug-fest with the Bombers never really in danger after goals by Brady Parker, Wade Parker and Trent Backhouse leaving the Bombers winners with a 3-2 score line:
Orara having been awarded a penalty in the last minute of the game.
Best for the Bombers was young defender Joe Willman with Luke Tweedle again proving the Dingoes' best.
Photo: 'Buckets' Harrigan about to get beaten by Brady Parker (Boambee's second Goal) - Photo by Michelle Newell
Credit must go to both sides for playing the game in the right spirit, acting professionally both on and off the pitch.
Boambee FC would also like to recognise the exemplary behaviour of the large crowd present at Ayrshire Park on Sunday afternoon. It is, in part, this good behaviour from players, support staff and spectators which allows the match officials to concentrate on what is really important... the game of football.
Youth: Boambee Bombers 3 Orara Valley Dingoes 1
A dynamic and determined Boambee youth squad took on an Orara side that was running equal with them on the ladder but on the day was not able to keep up with the young Bombers who are determined to ensure that the BFC has a bright future in senior men's football in the coming years.
The 3-1 score line probably did not do justice to the effort and attacking style the Bombers portrayed on the day but in fairness to the Orara team they did scramble all day and give themselves opportunities.
Best for the young Bombers were Jackson Moye, Brad Boyle and Toby Stitt with the ever reliable Alex Sutton providing the steely determination that may be the difference between winning and losing this years title.
- Report by John Newell, Boambee Bombers
Yamba Breakers 1 Sawtell Scorpions 3
Youth: Yamba Breakers 0 Sawtell Scorpions 6
On Saturday August 14 Yamba FC hosted Sawtell at Angourie Road and the home team were hoping for a better showing than the 10-1 thrashing Sawtell dished out in the first clash between these two teams.
The beginning of the match was a cagey affair with Yamba perhaps having slightly the better of the play however three incidents in the space of ten minutes pretty much sealed Yamba's fate.
Firstly Yamba's strike weapon and speed demon, Dan Kirk was fouled in the penalty area and he fell heavily fracturing his AC joint bringing his game and his season to an early end. Yamba were then unable to convert the resulting penalty spot kick and to make matters worse, only minutes later Yamba gifted the Scorpions an own goal. The home team were facing a 1-0 deficit when, had things gone their way, it should have been a 1-0 lead.
Sawtell's young keeper had a first half blinder and any chances Yamba did create were confidently defused including a fine one handed save off a Jason Bosward shot which was most certainly goalward bound if not for the Sawtell custodian's intervention.
Sawtell went on to double their lead 10 minutes from half time when a Sawtell attacker managed to weave his way through three Yamba defender's and found himself one-on-one with Yamba's keeper and easily found the net with a well taken strike.
Yamba came out in the second half full of fire and brimstone and stuck it to Sawtell. A come back looked almost a certainty, however, Yamba were again their own worst enemy when against the run of play, Sawtell scored a great solo goal after a player somehow was allowed to run 75 metres through defender after defender and slotted home to make the score 3-0.
Yamba, as is their form, never gave up, and scored a fine goal through striker Jason Bosward with a thunderous left foot volley from 25 metres out on an acute angle. The score stayed there until the final whistle and the 3-1 scoreline to Sawtell confirmed Yamba's demotion to 2nd division next year.
Yamba are on the road next week to take on Boambee on Sunday.
- Report by Rod Menzies, Yamba FC
2nd Division
Westlawn Tigers 2 Nambucca Strikers 1
In the Mens 2nd Division of North Coast Football, the match between second placed Nambucca Strikers and current first placed Westlawn Tigers was set to be a cracker – with Westlawn needing just one more competition point to secure the minor premiership and promotion to 1st Division next year.
It was a hard fought game in Grafton with both teams rising to the challenge. Westlawn scored early in the first half. Strikers lifted a gear in the 2nd and grabbed a penalty when Luke Olsen was brought down after passing Westlawn's 'keeper. The Ref' wasn't interested in calls for the offender to be sent off. Strikers scored off the penalty to equalize. Then disaster for the Strikers as they gave up an 'own goal' and Westlawn got the points.
The Strikers Men are off to Grafton again next week to take on Grafton City Rhinos in what will be the last regular round match of the season for them. After that they have a 'bye'. The Strikers have enough competition points to be sure of spot in the semi-finals, however we have to wait for the results of the last two rounds to find out if they get a home game in the finals series.
Terry Allen
Media Officer
North Coast Football
Email: Terry Allen
16/08/10
1st Div Women Results/Reports Round 12
Sawtell Scorpions 7 Coffs Coast Tigers 0
Sawtell dominated possession from the whistle. With great team work it was only a matter of time before the goals started coming.
Krista Paunovic had a scorching run up the field in the 20th minute which resulted in the first goal being scored by Sarah Tisdell.
Natalie Stewart was once again enjoying being out of goal and managed to get her toe to a corner that went in off the post in the 30th minute.
Photo: Sawtell FC's Natalie Stewart crosses the ball to Jasmine Kruger in one of Sawtell's many attacks on the Tigers - Photo by Jo Stewart
This was followed quickly by an overhead backwards shot by Krista Paunovic.
Rebekah Oberleuter added to the goal count in the 40th minute with a long range shot.
Sawtell used the very strong wind to their benefit in the first half and had lots of opportunities for goals, however, there were concerns at half time whether four goals would be enough to hold the Tigers at bay.
The second half started with the continuation of the excellent Sawtell team work. The wind hadn't and wouldn't drop at all.
Photo: Sawtell FC's Krista Paunovic played a prominent attacking role in their win over Tigers, with Taylor Meagher in a supporting position - Photo by Jo Stewart
Krista Pounovic sneaked a high goal in just under the post in the 55th minute. Then Natalie Stewart & Jasmin Kruger combined to confuse the defense in the 70th minute, with it resulting in a goal by Jasmin.
Taylor Meagher rounded off the game with the last goal.
Final score Sawtell 7 Tigers 0.
Photo: Sawtell FC's Jasmine Kruger charges forward in the 7 nil win over Tigers - Photo by Jo Stewart
- Report by Fiona Berrington, Sawtell Scorpions
Coffs United Lionesses 5 Woolgoolga Wildcats 1
A real arm-wrestle for the first 30 gave the Woopi contingent some hope for a result on Saturday and a top two finish.
With a force 10 gale at their back, the Wildcats were content to pump the ball and let the wind do the work, but this played into the hands of the solid Lioness's defensive pack.
Photo: Coffs United's Amanda Pithers keeps the ball away from Wildcat Jasmin Courtenay - Photo by Terry Allen
Once again led by Kassie Downie and Savannah Geddes, they extinguished any chances gambled by Woopi reefing kicks downwind.
A couple of open goal misses by Coffs couldn't dampen their enthusiasm and memories of recent Woopi revivals provided incentive for a monumental first half effort to score 2 into a stiff wind.
Both goals to a rejuvenated Ashlee Mackie.
Photo: Coffs United Lionesses v Woolgoolga Wildcats
- Photo by Terry Allen
The wind dropped significantly after half time but was enough to allow the Lionesses to camp for long periods in enemy territory.
Chloe Wighton upped the ante to push a clever 1 on 1 and the game was over pretty early at 3-0.
Woopi secured a good consolation goal to Bub Hosking from longish range but with Baija Rooney supplying great ball down the left to Ashlee, the score would balloon unflatteringly to 5-1 and a 'foursome' for Dorrigo 'Mackie'.
Photo: Coffs United's Georgia Burt and Woolgoolga's Ashli Deane provided an entertaining midfield battle at Maclean St on Saturday - Photo by Terry Allen
A tough hit out for a determined 12 today who can look forward to some players returning soon from injury.
Woopi can regroup but have leaked 15 goals to the Lionesses in 2010 and will need to be revved to have any impact on Urunga next week.
Match superwoman: Ashlee Mackie with 4 top class finishes, also Nicole McVicar, and Kassie Downie with Sav.
Reserve grade: A top 3-2 win to Coffs in Grafton, also undermanned.
Photo: Woolgoolga's Bub Hosking doing a mountain of work for the Wildcats - Photo by Terry Allen
- Report by Kerry Albert, Coffs United Lionesses
Boambee Eagles 4 Northern Storm Cyclones 1
Blustery conditions greeted the players and spectators at Ayreshire Park on Saturday afternoon with the wind swirling around the valley as it tends to do favouring one side for 10 minutes then across the field for the next ten then back where it came from just as quickly.
The Storm turned up this week with a full side, full bench, full of enthusiasm and from the kickoff showed that they were here to compete and compete they did for the full 90 minutes.
Photo: Boambee on the attack through Claire Freeman and Klaryse Dam
- Photo by Michelle Newell
The Eagles lost striker Claire Freeman to a knee injury in the first 20 minutes and it took the Boambee team a while to settle but when they did the crowd was treated to periods of controlled possession by the Boambee midfield delivering some quality ball to the strikers only to be thwarted by resolute defence by the back four of the Storm. And as we have come to expect some excellent goal keeping by the Storm custodian.
Half time came with the score at 1 – 0 to Boambee courtesy of a Kylie McDonald finish.
Boambee took the field after the break looking a lot more focused and soon took control of the midfield with Klaryse Dam, Sioban Deam, Kylie McDonald and Josie Helisma combining well to dominate possession for extended periods.
Meanwhile the back four were doing their bit repelling the counter attack from the Storm with Lyn Duncan doing a great job marking the dangerous Alicia Webber.
Even though Boambee dominated the second half they could only convert 3 of the many opportunities created with Kylie McDonald, Jess Barrett and Sheridan Watkins scoring.
Photo: Sweeper Fiona Clancy marshalling the Boambee defence assisted by Claire Freeman
- Photo by Michelle Newell
The Storm were denied a goal by some very brave keeping from stand in keeper Jess Barrett who put her body on the line to smother a shot from very close range.
The Storm's goal was the result of a very well taken opportunity from 22 metres out that just snuck under the bar and over the finger tips of the keeper.
Overall a reasonable second half effort from the Boambee side against an opponent who never gave up. However, if Boambee are to be a force in the coming weeks they will have to start taking full advantage of the opportunities they are creating as far too many great scoring chances were wasted this week.
- Report by Robert Young, Boambee Eagles
Corindi Red Rock Breakers 1 Urunga Raiders 5
Another entertaining match of football was held at Windy Corindi on Saturday!
The first half of the game saw end to end football with Urunga taking an early lead when the ball looked to be heading for the keeper's hands - only to deflect straight into the back of the net!
A couple of minutes later and Corindi hit back with their one and only goal of the match!
Urunga scored just before half time to lead 2 - 1 at the break!
The second half started well but even though Corindi had a few shots on goal, the Urunga 'keeper was in the right spot at the right time - all the time! In the end Urunga were too good for the Corindi girls and ran out with a 5 - 1 victory!
Goal scorers for Urunga were: Bree Rooney, Grace Gale, Sarah Marsden & Tara Archibald (who scored 2). Corindi's lone goal was scored by Kenishia Warren.
- Report by Coach Rod - Corindi Breakers
Photo: Urunga's Grace Gale gets away from some desperate Corindi defense on Saturday
- Photo by Terry Allen
Photo: Urunga's Tayla Atkinson hits the post with this shot at Corindi - Photo by Terry Allen
Photo: The Raiders' Sarah Marsden turns the ball inside her Corindi marker - Photo by Terry Allen
2nd Division
South Services Sirens 3 Maclean Bobcats 1
South Services Sirens have defeated the previous un-beaten Maclean Bobcats in a thrilling 3-1 victory at Rushforth Park on Saturday. With the first round loss to the Bobcats still fresh in the Sirens' minds, defence was the key as the Bobcats are well known for their physical play and fast attacks, however the Sirens defence answered the call on every occasion.
Keeper Cathy Krizman made the first of many fantastic saves off a shot from a free kick just outside the 18yrd box. The Bobcats came on the attack again when a stray ball failed to clear, resulting in a own goal being scored by the Sirens. 1-0 to the Bobcats. From the restart the Sirens looked dangerous, narrowly missing the goal.
Half time and the visitors lead 1-0 into the break.
Photo: South Services Sirens' Layla Duroux takes a goal kick - Photo by Sarah Grey
After the break the Sirens were determined to re-gain possession. A break down the right saw winger Keiran Shanley place a shot forcing the Bobcats keeper to make the save. The Sirens' first goal came from a perfectly placed corner by Layla Duroux finding the waiting head of Catlin Browning, bringing the score to 1-1. You could feel the tension building in both teams.
Shortly after a free kick saw the Sirens' next opportunity: a clearence kick from the Bobcats' backline found the flying boot of Layla Duroux. A half-volley from near the halfway line the which gave the Bobcats' keeper no chance. 2-1.
With the Bobcats' un-beaten record looking very shaky, they stepped it up throwing everything at the Sirens. With ten to go the Sirens' injuries started to add up. Was 2-1 enough?
With constant waves of attack coming at the Sirens and tired legs, a goal kick found the Sirens' striker Lisa Linnertson waiting on halfway. Lisa outran the entire Maclean backline & with only the keeper to beat, Lisa kept her cool; taking the ball around the keeper and running it over the goal line to bring the score to 3-1.
Loud cheers came from all over. With minutes remaining in the match the Sirens had secured the win. This was a great boost for the South Sirens: keeping Maclean scoreless with 2 weeks till finals. Anything can happen and to many the feeling that we had just beaten the un-defeated minor premiers was even more rewarding.
- Report by Amy Morgan, South Services Sirens
2nd Division
Boambee V Corindi
Photo: Boambee V Corindi - Photo by Michelle Newell
Photo: Boambee V Corindi - Photo by Michelle Newell
Terry Allen
Media Officer
North Coast Football
Email: Terry Allen
13/08/10
2nd Division Round-Up
Women's 2nd Division
Bobcats on target with minor title
The Maclean Women's Bobcats wrapped up the minor premiership in the North Coast Second Grade competition with a 3-0 win over Corindi at the showground on Saturday.
With three games to go, the undefeated Bobcats hold an unassailable lead at the top of the table. Coach Col Stephens, who took over this season, couldn't be happier with the hard work and determination of his unbeaten girls.
Bobcats started slowly against Corindi with the girls feeling the pressure early on, but as soon as striker Kaisha Hinchcliffe kicked a sailing ball into the top corner of the goal, the girls lifted and began to play smart football.
Maclean dominated possession in the second half with the midfielders holding the ball and pushing forward towards goal. On the odd occasion where Corindi broke through, the backline was quick to jump into action.
Courtney Forrester, Jo Bell and Hannah Ryan all launched some great strikes at goal but the scoring was left to Hinchcliffe who finished with an impressive hat-trick to be named player of the match. The 3-0 result lifts Bobcats' goal-scoring tally to 64 for and just nine conceded.
The win assures Bobcats of a home semi-final but with Urunga, Coffs and South Services still battling to decide their position in the top four, their opponent for the September 4 encounter is not yet clear.
- Report courtesy of » www.dailyexaminer.com.au
Men's 2nd Division
Westlawn Tigers one point away from promotion
The Westlawn Tigers are putting the champagne on ice for this Saturday's clash with Nambucca Heads at Barnier Park. The two teams have been battling all season for promotion to North Coast Football's 1st division competition and the matter will most likely be decided by 5pm Saturday.
Westlawn Tigers need just one solitary competition point to ensure their promotion after one season in 2nd division and it seems fitting that the matter looks like being decided against second placed Nambucca Heads Strikers.
Nambucca has been the form team all year, having not lost a match, however their six draws have just about killed off their promotion chances. Too often they have been left cursing their lack of finishing in front of goal, such as when they drew 1-1 against bottom placed South Services Gunners three weeks ago.
Ironically, the Strikers are one of only two teams to have beaten Westlawn this season: Coffs United Lions the other. But Westlawn have dropped no other points along the way while Nambucca recorded half a dozen draws. That's six points out of a possible 18 in those matches and that is why they face the impossible task ahead of them now.
Nambucca Strikers could quite likely defeat Westlawn this weekend: they are good enough, but the Tigers are determined to secure their promotion after the deflation of demotion last season left them with a first team which came last and then a Grand Final winning Youth team. Everyone of those players needed games and hanging on to them would be a challenge. Obviously they have found the right mix and have put it all on the pitch in 2010.
Both Westlawn and Nambucca have a bye over the remaining three weeks of the season, so only six points are on offer to them. Westlawn is currently sitting six points ahead of Nambucca and over 30 goals better off, so it looks like a done deal. Even if Westlawn loses its remaining two games, Nambucca would have to win by around 15 goals per match, give or take a few.
Westlawn will want to remove the mathematical 'what-ifs' this weekend and receive the baton from the beleaguered Yamba Breakers who need a miracle to stay up in the top flight next year. They have three matches remaining: Sawtell, Boambee and Coffs Tigers, need to win all three handsomely and hope Sawtell loses their remaining three against Yamba, Maclean and Northern Storm. Unlikely, but not impossible either.
Regardless of what can happen or what is even likely to happen, Westlawn will settle the matter with a draw against Nambucca Heads at Barnier Park on Saturday. Co-coach John Nelson is feeling quietly confident, but wary of their opposition.
"We have hit a purple patch recently and we're looking forward to sealing promotion this weekend with a strong showing at home against Nambucca, especially as they beat us at their home in the first round," John said this week.
Kick off at Barnier Park is at 5pm.
Terry Allen
Media Officer
North Coast Football
Email: Terry Allen
September 4th and 5th
Semi Finals
September 11th and 12th
Elimination Finals
September 18th
Senior Grand Finals
September 19th
Junior Grand Finals
September 25th
Junior Zone Championships
(In Clarence area)
September 25th
NCFZ Presentation Night
October 2/3/4th
(long weekend)
Champion of Champions
Coffs Harbour BCU Stadium
November 27th
NCFZ - AGM
