12th December 2006
2007 Challenge Cup

YOUR INVITATION TO ATTEND
30th ANNUAL CHALLENGE CUP
Fri 16th, Sat 17th & Sun 18th March 2007
Coronation Park, Nambucca Heads

6th December 2006
Football Silly Season

Whilst all may be quiet on the Football/Soccer fields at the moment there has never been so much activity off the park. A whole new organising body has to be found from President down to office cleaner, but that is a saga for another day.

What is of more interest to the punters and especially players is the musical chairs game of name a Coach for next season, with the possible scenario that not one of last year's incumbents from Champions to Promoted being the same in 07.

Two clubs that have however got themselves organised and appointed guiding lights for their Premier players are Northern Storm and Sawtell Scorpions.

After years of distinguished service at the helm of Sawtell, Ian Glover has accepted a new challenge north of town with the Storm. All coaching positions come with a "use by date", Ian has shown great character in appreciating this and leaves the Scorpions with nothing but their gratitude for a job well done and best wishes for the future.

This of course left vacant, because of the nature of the club and the plethora of young talent in the ranks, the "plum" coaching job in the league. Judging by the number and calibre of candidates that expressed interest this would certainly seem the case. However once a particular aspirant stepped forward the succession was never in doubt.

Mark Hayes has been a stalwart of the club for 25 years both on and off the field, a winner as both player, last time the Scorpions won the Premiership and highly successful coach of many junior grades and including Premierships with U17s and Reserve Grade.

Highly regarded by all current players, a smooth transition is ensured and what a squad he will inherit. Northern NSW representatives Danny Clements and Rory Goddard about to tour Malaysia are just the tip of the iceberg that has been added to by a recruiting campaign that has already born the fruit of two ex professional players from Canberra and the UK as well as being replenished by a yet again winning U17 team as well as the return of a few old faces.

Apart from additions of new faces, a major improvement to the scenery at Sawtell will be the installation of the best new lighting system in the League, matched only by the International Stadium and well up to the new standards required by O H and S regulations, something one wonders if other Clubs have budgeted for, if they wish to continue the trend of more night fixtures, not to mention training. Whilst on the subject of training the highly credentialled Scott Quarmby a has been appointed as Director of Coaching, guiding not only all grades of coaches but individual players as well.

A meet the new team BBQ has been arranged for Saturday 16th Dec, 12 to 4pm at the Sawtell Hotel. All are welcome including the Ladies, 3rd Grade as well as any new to town. Contact ph# 0437 304 964.

- Report by Dave Edwards
Sawtell SC

6th November 2006
Coffs Coast Tigers Women's Cup

YOUR INVITATION TO ATTEND
2007 COFFS COAST TIGERS WOMEN'S CUP
SAT 3RD MARCH to SUN 4TH MARCH 2007
POLWARTH DRIVE FOOTBALL FIELDS,
WEST COFFS HARBOUR, NSW.

The Coffs Coast Tigers Football Club invites all women players to attend its Women's Cup weekend knockout competition. Competition details are as follows:

The competition is 11-a-side and open to female players 15 years or older
Mixed age teams, new teams, existing teams all invited (just make a team)
But all teams must be club based and NOT exclusively representative players
Entry cost is $250 per team, with a maximum of 16 players per team
Players must nominate and play for one team only
Players not registered with an affiliated soccer club must pay an additional insurance levy of $20 for seniors and $5 for juniors
Teams outside North Coast Football Zone require a letter of approval from their Zones to attend
There will be a maximum of 20 teams in the competition (early registration recommended)
Entry is confirmed by return of the nomination form accompanied by payment of the entry fee
Each team is assured a minimum of 4 games of 30 minutes duration each
Games are played Saturday and Sunday with finals on Sunday afternoon
All games fully refereed with accompanying lines-people
Full canteen and licensed premises will be available

FIRST PRIZE: $1000
SECOND PRIZE: $500
CONSOLATION PRIZE: $100

11th September 2006
NBN PL Grand Final Men Report

Urunga Raiders 2 Coffs City Utd Lions 2

Last weekends events could almost begin with 'once upon a time' as Breton's brigade of Raiders made their way to the Coffs Harbour International Stadium but that would not do justice to both sides that have been the pre-eminent teams in the competition this past year.

With two wins apiece in the competition it was more of a showdown than a Grand Final but I tell you it will be forever etched into the hearts of all Raiders players and supporters as for the first time in the club's 26 year history they cheered on the maroon and whites to victory in not one but two grand finals, both at the expense of the Coffs Lions. Now Coffs have had plenty of finals experience cupboards full of silverware and a player squad list that would be the envy of most clubs but this was not to be one of their happier finals experiences.

The Reserve Grade grand final offered up a taste of what was in store as the sides took the field with a cool southerly blowing and a threat of wet weather on the way. The Raiders in the early stages strung together several passing moves that although looking promising resulted in shots on goal that didn't really trouble the Coffs defence.
It was a confidence boost for the Raiders who were soon to be tested as Coffs began to get into their stride and only good defending from Andrew Pettit and Matt 'I should be striker' Endemi kept the Lions at bay. Things began to look decidedly ominous for the Raiders as the Lions gained a greater than even share of the ball and after one failed attack Endemi's quickly struck clearance hit Pettit's arm. The Lions were duly awarded a penalty kick which they failed to convert.

It should have gone in perhaps it was the look of Raider's keeper Stuart Wallace or was it that demon of Grand Final pressure? It didn't matter though as the Lions were to score soon after when Glen Williams tossed a high ball into the Raiders penalty area for the mercurial Grice Reid to swoop on and deftly chip the advancing Wallace to make the score 1-0.

To make matters worse for the Raiders, Harry Gale had to be replaced by Damian Fuller as he experienced the rigors of returning after a 6 week break and Matiss Thiering replaced by Ben Dooley after he had expended too much energy in his u/17's grand final the night before.

The Raiders stuck to their game plan and even though they were stretched at times the efforts of Pat Myles and Jai Waddick were creating opportunities for the maroon and whites at the front. The score was levelled 5 minutes before the half time break after Myles burst out of defence and was fouled outside the Coffs penalty area. Andrew 'the white feather' Pettit took the ensuing free kick and found big Matt Endemi on the far post who was able to equalise with a well placed header. It had been mostly attack by the Lions and with that bit of luck the Raiders were able to go the break at 1-1 and knowing they had a strengthening breeze at their back in the second half.

Jacob Lancaster who had worked tirelessly at the front for the Raiders in the first stanza, was replaced by Toby Francis at the start of the second half. Now they say that Toby can get out of bed, turn out the light and get back in before it gets dark such is his speed - well Toby tormented the Lions tiring back three creating that much needed forward pressure for the Raiders and after Toby intercepted a mistimed Lion's pass, he was able to flick the ball on to Jackson Lindsay who neatly threaded a ball through to a rampaging Sam Ireland, his shot cannoned off the woodwork and into the net to make the Raiders 2-1 leaders with 30 minutes to go.

The Lion's stuck at their task and mounted wave after wave of attack and even though their commitment was undoubted they could not break the Raiders tight defence, probably on another day it would have been enough, but not this day. The Raiders had a hold of that lead like it was life itself and as the clock wound down ran out 2-1 winners.

Tremendous efforts by all the squad saw the Raiders take out the Reserve Grade Grand Final for the first time since 1993. It was an exciting match and was a fitting prelude to the main game that would eventually start at 8pm... yes it was a long day.

By the time the First Grade took the field the rain that had been threatening had arrived in gusts and swirls, this had the effect of concentrating the expectant crowd of about 2000 into the grandstand and made for albeit wet, an electric atmosphere.

It was a case of fasten your seat belts when Phil Payne blew time on as both sides that had been waiting for 1 hour in the sheds hit the ground running and mounted fast early attacking raids at both ends. It would be only superb last ditch defending by the Lions Peter Bayndrian that defused the first really promising raid by the Raiders, as Trevor Sparkes took possession of the ball and drove through the heart of the Coffs defence for goal, as Sparkes pulled the trigger Bayndrian put his body on the line and blocked the shot.

Exceptional piece of defending that was to be repeated soon after as Dion Ball released Ben Mackay who had his forward run terminated by the Raiders left back Bradd Danzey. It was uncompromising play that would repeated throughout the first half, stuff that only a Grand Final can extract from teams. The Lions were first to score though after Nathan Hansford did enough to make space on the right flank to fire in a cross that Nathan Silvey was able to head home from close range.

The Lions they roared here we go - they'd won the last two encounters against the Raiders, you could feel the self belief of the side grow with Silvey's strike. The Raiders were left to wonder what they had to do in the second half to get through these feline warriors.

The second half was equally as fierce with fast attack from both teams confirming the fact that the result of this match was definitely in the balance. The game turned in the Raiders favour after Lion's Brent Turner was sent off for a tackle of dubious intent on Kale Hopper. At ten men and 30 minutes left the Lions were to be given a thorough workover by the Raiders as they held the ball for longer periods of play and mounted wave after wave of attack.

The breakthrough that looked imminent came after Mick McCormick who been playing solidly for the Raiders at the back dispossessed Coff's Anthony Wiseman and fired out a ball to Jaxen 'the mailman' Heward who then passed on to Grant Homes. Homes was able to weave around Mick Smith whose desperate tackle felled Homes and a penalty kick was awarded.

Up stepped Raider's captain Trevor Sparkes who smacked in the equaliser. The largely pro Raider crowd went berserk! You might think that at ten men and 1-1 Coffs would lose their taste for the match. That was never in their plans as they surged back, brilliant fast attack from Nathan Hansford and Nick Lambert was causing the Raiders concern at the back and only laser like tackling from Dominc Kelly and Mick McCormick kept the Lions at bay. The match ended in normal time at 1-1.

Two 15 minute periods of extra time were now to played and in the first period of that Urunga looked to have the match sewn up after great work from Dominic Kelly saw him release Kale Hopper on the right flank. Hopper was able to feint his way around a tiring Mick Smith and drive in a shot that was too hot for David Craggs from 20metres. The largely pro Raider crowd were on their collective feet, surely that will do.

Coffs though were able to equalise in the second period of extra time after a fast break by Wiseman saw his pass to Silvey neatly deflected onto an unmarked Ben Mackay, his shot too good for the diving Raider's keeper Jakob Campbell. 2-2 was the final score and now for that deciding passage of any drawn final - the penalty shootout.
In a reflection of the match the first 5 penalties by both sides found the net, neither side willing to give ground. From that point on the first miss with the other side scoring would decide the result. It was not till the 8th kick by both sides that the result was to be confirmed as in a moment of sheer brilliance, Jakob Campbell who'd already almost saved a couple of penalty shots, stood off centre in the goal. Coff's Peter Bayndrian must have thought 'this is ok, I'll just smack it into that gaping hole'. Unfortunately for him his shot cannoned off the woodwork and Campbell's tactic worked.

So at 11pm (yes you read that right - 11pm) on Sunday 9th September the Raiders won their first First Grade Grand Final in 26 years - I have to say it was an epic game. As the Lion's left the field to lick their wounds the Raiders shed reverberated to the sounds of 'are we good, are we any bloody good...' Well boys this year you are the best!

Football is not over for the Raiders though as they now take part in the Champions of Champions competition the first round of which will be played at Urunga this weekend with Raiders up against Sydney's Barnsten FC. This match will be at 10:30 at the Morgo St complex on Sunday 17th, hope you can be there to cheer on the the Champions... go U Raiders!!

- Report by Tom Campbell
Urunga Raiders SC


Coffs City United Football Club wishes to congratulate Urunga Raiders on their initial NCF premiership win over the weekend. Coffs City were attempting to win their third sequence of 3 crowns in a row but this was not to be.

A final score of 2-2 and then 9-8 on penalties is amazing and football supporters should be impressed with the commitment and skill shown by both Urunga and Coffs City to achieve these levels.

Well done.
Coffs City United Committee

7th September 2006
NBN PL Grand Final Preview

 SATURDAY
 NIGHT

 9th Sept

 7:00pm

 LIONS
 V
 RAIDERS

 COFFS
 STADIUM


 BE THERE!

and now for something completely different,
the serious report...

LATEST TEAM INFO:

2006 SEASON MATCH STATS & FACTS

4th September 2006
NBN PL Women Final Report

Urunga Raiders 1 Corindi Red Rock Breakers 2

3rd September 2006
NBN PL Final Reports

Urunga Raiders 2 Sawtell Scorpions 0

31st August 2006
Wet Weather Closures

International Stadium Closed
Over 35s: Fixtures scheduled for International Stadium Thursday 31st August
have been transferred to the International Stadium on Monday 4th September 2006.

At this time we have NO reports of any other ground closures.

28th August 2006
PL Women Semi Final Match Reports

Coffs City Utd Lionesses 3 Urunga Raiders 2

28th August 2006
NBN PL Semi Final Match Reports

Urunga Raiders 0 Coffs City Utd Lions 2

Sawtell Scorpions 2 Woolgoolga Wolves 0

And then there were 3. A 2-0 victory over Woolgoolga ensured the Sawtell Scorpions a final showdown with Urunga next week for the right to meet the Lions in the Grand Final.

Injuries and suspensions covered by a starting position for Dylan Kinninmont and the welcome return of Rory Goddard, a confident Sawtell were quickly into stride.

Relieved of the thankless task for being the central target man, Matt Parkins was causing havoc out wide. From one of his menacing runs came a fine cross to Hayden Kelly who produced a clinical finish from outside the penalty area for a rare event for the Scorpions lately, a goal from open play, not a free kick, penalty or corner in sight.

With their tails up and a strong breeze behind them Sawtell created many more scoring opportunities with Parkins and Danny Clements going closest, but Woopi are a well coached disciplined side and their defence was coping well. Nick Morgan and Lindsay Athorn proving hard nuts to crack.

Chances to Woolgoolga came in the shape of high, swirling in the tricky wind, shots from distance, one hitting the crossbar and another having Daniel Harris at full stretch to save. Half time and the only concern being one should have been more especially with Woopi about to have an even stronger breeze in their favour.

Playing with the wind can often prove more difficult than against it. The ball is best kept on the deck or passes are misjudged and over hit. For Woolgoolga the adjustment was proving difficult. They did however spend considerable more time in Sawtell's half of the field but continually came up against the brick wall of David Gill and playing way above his age and weight Andrew Tindal, who was not only cool and calm in defense but the catalyst for many attacking raids.

At 1-0 the match was still in the balance until a precision pass from midfield Danny Clements released Luke France, whose strong shot keeper Rob James did well to parry only for substitute Tye O'Conner to put away the scraps with his first touch, 2-0 game over !

Woolgoolga gallant in defeat and perhaps missing a few troops of their own can now plan for next season.

Sawtell on the other hand can begin plotting the downfall of Minor Premiers Urunga, having had the better of two drawn encounters with them have nothing to fear. With all hands back on deck team selection will be a good problem to have.

- Report by Scorpion Dave
Sawtell SC

27th August 2006
Division 2 Semi Final Match Reports

GRAFTON CITY THROUGH TO PRELIMINARY FINAL

21st August 2006
NBN PL Men Round 21 Results/Reports

Woolgoolga Wolves 3 Westlawn Tigers 1

- report to come

Northern Storm 2 Coffs Coast Tigers 4

- report to come

Sawtell Scorpions 4 Coffs United Lions 0

Regardless of the time of year positions in the league table or what may be at stake, for a Sawtell Scorpion there is no better outcome than a win over arch rivals the Coffs Lions. So a record 4-0 result was the prefect confidence boost for the upcoming semi finals battles ahead.

The Lions certainly came to this contest in top form with a win against runaway leaders Urunga and a thrashing of top four aspirants Northern Storm but this meant nothing to Sawtell who with a new look strike force that contained Luke France clicked from the start. Ben Whittaker ably took over France's defensive role setting up what was to be a frustrating day for the Coffs attack.

Constant pressure by the Scropions resulted in a series of free kicks in attacking range. The opening and candidate for goal of the year came from a Matt Parkins free kick from wide left and a thunderous first time volley by Cameron Swift that had Sawtell ground staff checking the state of the net.

5 minutes later a more central free kick, this time Parkins needed no assistance bouncing the ball in that prefect spot that keepers hate for 2-0. The Lions were now stung into action a high bouncing attempt on goal saw Daniel Harris in the Sawtell goal beaten for the only time on the day but David Gill was on hand to clear. In what could of been a major problem for the Scorpions Whittaker was lost to an ankle injury but debutant 1st Grader Ryan Hayes introduced himself to Lions striker Nat Silvy with crunching clean tackle and the business as usual was resumed.

Another set piece into the Lions box and another great finish by Swift this time with the head. Ben Mackay was proving dangerous but with the assistance of Swift and wing back Jake Glover relishing his new role the Scorpions defence was ably dealing with anything thrown at them. Back up front new striker Luke France added to Coffs woes with a fine headed goal. 4-0, the Sawtell faithful were in heaven and it wasn't even half time.

In the second half it would be fair to say that the intensity dropped as both sides held thoughts of contests to come but the nature of some of Coffs defensive challenges and the introduction of Nick Lambert showed that pride was at stake here. Players from both sides where withdrawn to fight another day but the pace of Matt Parkins still caused nightmares for the double marking Lions defence as did the skill of Luke France.

This new formation for Sawtell certainly worked and may have been found just in time for the Finals. A great team effort that gave keeper Harris one of his quietest days. A win of this ease against the competition favourites is certainly a timely boost before next weeks semi final encounter with Woolgoolga and on this form the Scorpions may get the chance to repeat the dose in either two or three weeks.

Reserve Grade was certainly a different story but with the same scoreline only in favour of the Lions. The two sides will do battle again next week with a Grand Final berth at stake.


- Report by Scorpion Dave
Sawtell SC

Valley United 0 Urunga Raiders 3

So to the last round of an epic season that has seen the Raiders rack up 17 wins 2 draws and one loss that included 11 wins on the trott. Valley United are a combined outfit from the Nambucca/Macksville Valley and they have had a different perspective of the competition this year winning only three games. At second last on the table could they muster something to challenge the boys in maroon and white. Dave Thorn was the centre official and on a sparkling spring like day the Raiders kicked-off.

Much has changed in the way the Raiders play this year. In round 1 against Valley United they were the luckiest of winners after Trevor Sparkes scored in the dieing seconds. In this match however the ball control and movement of players had the Valley boys on the back foot from the word go. As the pressure built on the Valley defence (sometimes comprising all 11 players) the Raiders were searching for way through this tightly packed array of players.

With a string of passes that began with a bleary eyed McCormick finding Pettit on the right flank it ended some 12 passes later with Trevor Sparkes lashing home the Raiders first for the afternoon from 21 metres. A spanking shot that left Aaron Lambie the Valley keeper motionless.

The Valley boys stirred into action though and had their best chance of the game from a corner kick on 26 minutes when promising youngster Chris Lennox thumped in a header that cannoned off the woodwork. Oh at 1-1 it might have been a different storey for the Valley boys. The half finished in an undecided 1-0.

The second half was to be more productive for the Raiders with goals Andrew Pettit who finished an excellent move that had Toby Francis deliver a pin point cross for Pettit to head home number two and the game was put beyond question 20 minutes from time when Kale Hopper scythed through a tiring Valley outfit Hopper's 25m dipping shot too good for a well worked Lambie.

The Valley boys although on the wrong end on the score sheet played to the final whistle and can be proud of their efforts on an afternoon when all didn't go according to plan.

The Final series is upon us with the Raiders playing Northern Storm in the Reserve grade in the minor semi-final. This game looks to be at Toormina at 12pm on Saturday 26th but keep your ears open for any change of venue. The big one though, ie the Major Semi final will be held at the Morgo St complex and the Raiders will face up to the Lions to see who gets a free ride to the Grand final.

What a game this will be! So if you only watch one game this year let it be this one so get there early for a good seat and cheer on the local boys. Kick off at 2pm... Go you Raiders!


- Report by Tom Campbell
Urunga Raiders SC

21st August 2006
PL Women Match Reports 19/8

Woolgoolga Dolphins 0 Sawtell Scorpions 1

Final clash of season for Dolphins
The Woolgoolga Dolphins saw out the season with a disappointing 0-1 loss to the Sawtell Scorpions on Saturday at Woolgoolga's High Street.

In a low scoring game Sawtell took the lead at the 25 minute mark with a darting attack down the left finished with a well placed shot in the top far corner leaving the Woopi keeper Emma Squires with little hope.

It was a game which epitomised the Woolgoolga season, with the team struggling hard all game but frustratingly unable to find the back of the net. Janice Lacy was striking the ball wonderfully from a number of free kicks outside the 18 yard box, but the Sawtell keeper was in excellent form and repelled the on-target shots time and again.

Nothing fell Woolgoolga's way, despite the obvious desperation of the strikers and midfielders who continued to strive for the elusive goal until the final whistle blew during injury time.

Regardless of the unfavourable outcome for Woolgoolga, it was an engaging game to watch from the sideline with both opponents ardent for the win, despite being out of finals contention.

Player of the match for Woolgoolga was Michelle Merrikin who was excellent on the left wing, particularly in shielding the ball against multiple opposition players, and well placed line ball passes. Also deserving mention are Janice Lacy and Emma Squires in goal.

Report by Elspeth Baalman
Coach, Woolgoolga Dolphins

Urunga Raiders 2 Coffs United Lionesses 2

The top of the table clash between Coffs United and Urunga was clearly going to be the match of the round. Urunga needed to win or draw to make the major semi final against Coffs and the Lionesses were playing for pride after their loss to Corindi.

Both teams were attacking strongly and Tjirra Francis had many runs but all were cut off by Coffs' keeper. The first breakthrough came when Tjirra found herself open on the right hand side and fired in a cracker from outside the 18 yard box and hit the back of the net. Urunga 1 - Coffs 0.

At the kickoff, Urunga were caught napping and a shot made by a midfielder also found the net. Two goals within a minute, the game was on.

The game lifted a notch and Urunga again found themselves attacking. Tjirra Francis had the ball on the right, beat two players and put in a cross to Kathy Mittasch who beat the keeper with a low shot. The rest of the half was more even with both teams putting together good passages of play. No more obvious chances in this half.

In the second half, Coffs were given a free kick about 15 metres outside the penalty box. The kick was well taken and the ball flew over the heads of the defenders as well as the keeper and into the back of the net, making the score even at 2 all. Soon after, Urunga's Ashlee Mackie made a run at goal and was taken out on the edge of the box by a Coffs player. A short kick was taken with a pass to Belinda Moore, who was fouled in the box but with no penalty given, the ball was cleared and Coffs avoided danger again.

The Lionesses continued to pressure the Urunga goal but some good saves were made by Morwenna Tunley to keep the score even. The game see sawed from end to end with both sides hungry and creating dangerous plays.

Coffs looked to have the majority of possession in the second half and the defence of Rachel Freeman, Kim Barker, Jenna Tarrant and Roxy Auld held out all chances in front of goal. Urunga made numerous runs at goal with Ashlee Mackie and Kathy Mittasch finding space up front. Belinda Moore played well in the midfield using her head to stop all high balls from getting into her half.

In the last minutes of the game, Ashlee Mackie found a loose ball in Coffs' half of the field but was beaten to it by the keeper. Special mention must go to Kathy Mittasch who showed commitment all match by always being there to help out, both in attack and defence, she seemed to pop up everywhere.

Also, goalkeeper Morwenna Tunley deserves credit as she made many great saves that prevented Coffs from winning this match.

A good match ended in a well-earned draw. The two teams will meet again next week in the 1st division major semi-final which will be held in Coffs. Be there to support the girls in their appeal to go straight through to the grand final.

Reserve Grade: Urunga Raiders 1 Coffs United Lionesses 0
Only three minutes into the game, the Raiders found the back of the net after a loose ball from the goalkeeper was spilt in front of an oncoming Jessica Carroll who made no mistake in scoring Urunga's first and only goal.

The game then see sawed from end to end with both teams creating good passages of play. Urunga soon got settled again and had the majority of possession and the game was camped in Coffs' half of the pitch. The Raiders were passing well and looked dangerous as they definitely had the Lionesses on the back foot.

The second half was played evenly but Urunga played well enough to keep out the Coffs attack with special mention going to Pru Young who did well attacking the forwards.

This was the last game for Reserve Grade as they had no chance of making the finals and the girls were ecstatic to finish off the season on a winning note by beating the Minor Premiers.

Celebrations were had after the game with champagne flowing freely at the Morgo St grounds. Congratulations to Reserve Grade on a season full of positivity, comradeship and fun.

Report by Manager, Danielle Forbes
Urunga Raiders SC

17th August 2006
PL Women Match Reports 10 & 12/8

10th August 2006
Urunga Raiders 2 Boambee Eagles 1

After the big wet on Saturday where all North Coast Football games were cancelled, all Premier League games were forced to be played mid week. Urunga and Boambee played their game on a mild Thursday night at the Morgo St fields.

The game started at a quick pace with both teams very hungry for a win from this match. With Urunga in second place and Boambee in third place and the finals looming, the pressure on both teams was high. Urunga came out firing with the first whistle. Tjirra Francis and Crystal Halverson were flying up front (like a zyrtec!) playing fast balls & making quick breaks. Urunga took the lead first, 20 minutes into the match, when Tjirra Francis picked up a rebound & put the ball smoothly over the line.

The Raiders continued to put pressure onto the Boambee defence and goalkeeper, showing the precise passing and speed that has gotten them into the top 2. Kim Barker and Rachel Freeman defended well, shutting down any chance Boambee had, and goalkeeper Morwenna Tunley also made some great saves to deny the Eagles any chances.

A piece of brilliance from Belinda Moore gave Urunga their second goal and they looked to have control of the match. They went into half time content with a 2-0 lead.

The game was more even in the second half with Boambee lifting the pressure and causing Urunga plenty of hassles. Rachel Freeman made some great defensive moves to keep Boambee scoreless. The young Boambee forwards made breaks but Urunga kept shutting them down. A rash tackle by Urunga's keeper was lucky not to be a penalty when a Boambee player had to leave the field injured.

The Raiders were soon caught still when a cross by Boambee's Sam Taylor hit the far post and crossed the goal line. This put the score line to 2-1. Boambee were in the match once again. The Eagles looked dangerous when they made a fast counter attack but were denied by good pressure from Jenna Tarrant.

The last five minutes of the match were packed with action. An indirect free kick was given to Boambee on the edge of Urunga's penalty box when goalie Morwenna Tunley picked up the ball. No-one on the sideline could quite understand what the kick was for exactly, but the play was quickly shut down by Urunga's defenders. The ball was soon in the other half of the field when an uncharacteristic error by Boambee saw an obvious backpass to the keeper picked up. This gave the Urunga side an indirect kick in a similar position as two minutes beforehand. History was repeated and goal was prevented.

The play moved quickly to the other end of the field where Belinda Moore had a good shot which just tipped over the crossbar.

With only seconds remaining the excitement was building and both teams lifted but nothing prevailed and the game finished with a 2-1 result. This game was, again, an excellent showcase of the football talent in this region. An exciting match that had everyone on the edge of their seats until the final whistle blew.

Reserve Grade: Urunga Raiders 0 Boambee Eagles 1
In Reserve grade, the match against Boambee was a must win as the Raiders had to win all three of their remaining matches to advance to the semi finals. Boambee were the much stronger team in this match with Urunga managing only two shots at goal all game. The Urunga defenders were the stars of this game denying opportunity after opportunity from the young, fast Boambee strikers.

The first half saw a quick break away from a Boambee forward result in goal and at half time the score was 1-0.

The Raiders did extremely well in the second half keeping the Eagles scoreless and this was reflected by Coach Brendon Mason's talk after the game. Although the girls didn't get a win, congratulations must go to the whole team for a fantastic effort in a tough match.

Report by Manager, Danielle Forbes
Urunga Raiders SC


12th August 2006
Urunga Raiders 0 Coffs Coast Tigers 1

After playing a very physical game against Boambee less than 48 hours ago, Urunga definitely had a tough task ahead of them against Coffs Coast.

For the first 30 minutes, the play see sawed from end to end with no real obvious chances from either side. A corner awarded to Coffs Coast was beautifully taken tricking the Urunga defence, going over everyone's heads and calmly put in by one of the Coffs players. Coffs Coast 1 Urunga 0.

The Raiders had a few chances before half time but to no result.

Urunga came out hungry in the second half creating many chances. Tjirra Francis was playing well up front making fast breaks causing hassles for the Tigers defence. She made a great run down the left wing beating a few players and putting a ball across to Claire Chapman whose shot hit the right hand post. The rebound was cleared out and the score remained at 1-0.

After a misunderstanding in the Urunga side an indirect free kick was awarded to Coffs Coast for a back pass to the goalkeeper. Urunga cleared the ball and relieved some pressure in the defensive line.

Soon after, a chance came for Urunga when a through ball was chipped over the defence line and picked up by Heidi Francis who was challenged by the keeper resulting in an injury. Words were exchanged by both teams at the stoppage and it was predicted that there would be an aggressive finish to the game.

Play was restarted and the ball was moved up and down the field like a ping pong match with both sides trying to create a chance and break down the other team's defence.

The only other chance in the match for Urunga came when Tjirra Francis made a breakaway and fired off a shot but the Coffs Coast goalkeeper managed to get a toe to it and prevent a goal.

The Raiders were not at their best today and will have to work hard in lead up to next week's encounter with top placed Coffs United Lionesses. This match, clearly the match of the round, is much anticipated after a 2-2 draw the last time the two teams met.

Reserve Grade: Urunga Raiders 2 Coffs Coast Tigers 2
With no chance of being able to get into the semi finals, the Urunga side were told to relax and have fun, and that they did, playing possibly their best game of the season. Urunga dominated the first half of the game with precise passing and making good runs off the ball.

The first goal of the game, though, came from Coffs Coast after a good individual run by a midfield player led to a shot that was too good for the Urunga defence. Half time score 1-0 to the Tigers.

Urunga came into the second half hungry and again, played together as a team showing great football skills. The Raiders changed tactics and gave usual defender, Pru Young, a run up front. This proved successful, as she scored her first goal of the season 10 minutes into the half tying up the score.

Another positional move saw sweeper Skye Pettit moved onto the wing and immediately she made a run up the line and her resulting shot was too good for the Coffs Coast keeper. Suddenly, Urunga found themselves in front 2-1.

Unfortunately, though, the Raiders couldn't hold the Tigers out as a scramble in front of the Urunga goal that seemed to last for minutes, got put away with only 10 minutes of the match remaining.

A great Reserve grade game with a draw being a fair result. Best players for Urunga were Allie Boswell and Pru Young, but congratulations to all players on their best performance of the season.

Report Co-written by Danielle & Nicole Forbes and Jessica Snow
Urunga Raiders SC

16th August 2006
PL Women - Rescheduled Games

NCF Premier League Women's

Woolgoolga v Nambucca Heads
Date: Thursday 17th August 2006
Venue: Nambucca
Times: 5.30pm amd 7.30pm

16th August 2006
NBN PL Midweek Matches

Valley Utd 0 Coffs Coast Tigers 1

The Tigers managed to edge out Valley in an entertaining, if at times, scrappy encounter at Nambucca. Opening 20mins were fairly even with both defenses snuffing out any attack.

Valley then had an excellent spell in which they were unlucky not to hit the front. Terry Hunt fired in a left wing cross which was headed back by Dean Murton to Adam Ross on the edge of the box. Ross then struck a fierce volley which appeared a certainty for the top left corner until a flying Chris Edwards got a fingertip to the ball to deflect for a corner. From the corner Dean Murton then went close with a header that flashed past the right upright.

With the tempo of the game now full bore, a series of Tigers corners then had Valley's defence at 6s & 7s with only some desperate goalmouth clearances keeping the game scoreless. The halftime break came slightly earlier for Valley's Dean Murton when he hobbled off & was taken to hospital with a suspected broken ankle.

A slow start by both sides after the interval kept chances minimal early on. Tigers Luke Stow collected a right wing cross & blazed over; a good interchange of passes between Jesse Stanton & 'Johnny' Peawkumdee resulted in his low drive fizzing past the left post.

Midway through Valley seemed to lose intensity & momentum of the game swung firmly in Tigers favour. They were much faster to the ball & showed much more movement off it. After sustained pressure however & a flurry of shots by the Tigers, it seemed as if there was no way through a packed Valley defense. Phil Barrera then met a corner with a downward header that bounced low & left 'keeper Aaron Lambie unsighted behind a forest of legs. 1-0 Tigers.

From the restart Valley could have equalised when a fine through ball from David Funnell put Jesse Stanton away, but his drive was well wide. Luke Venn should have made it 2-0 after collecting a left wing cross & only the keeper to beat, headed wide of the right post.

A mix up at the back should have sealed the match for Tigers but was prevented by a desperate sliding on the line clearance by Tim Zirkler. Lambie then denied Venn from close in with a parry round the post & then a deflection via his leg prevented a Luke Stow drive. Venn had another glorious chance moments later with a one on one but somehow fired over the bar.

Moments before the final whistle Valley went extremely close to pinching a point. Shawn 'Chucky' Kelly found some space on the edge of the box & drilled a superb curling shot towards the top right corner of the net. Tigers 'keeper Edwards again repeated his feat of earlier, came from nowhere & tipped the ball past the post.

All in all, a deserved win to the Tigers who created the majority of chances, especially in the 2nd half. Valley will rue their lack of finishing, but a much better display than their last weekend drubbing at Korora.

Reserve Grade: An excellent first half by Valley saw them 4-0 up with goals by David Funnell, Tim Fraser & 2 from Roy Mitchell. Tigers' Clint Silvia pulled one back in the 2nd half via the penalty spot but Valley ran out deserved 4-1 victors.

15th August 2006
Golden Balls 6 a side Tournament

14th August 2006
Playing for Promotion



This Thursday evening under lights the Boambee Bombers will be hosting the Orara Valley Dingoes in a match that will decide which club will be leaving 2nd division and joining the Premier League Competition for season 2007.

The Bunker will be no place for the faint hearted as both these teams have had impressive seasons and both will be out to show not only their supporters but other Premier League Clubs that they have what it takes. Both teams have been on top of the competition since round 4 and go into this match tied on competition points with only two goals separating them.

The Boambee Bombers, proudly sponsored by Coffs City Painting Professionals, have been under the guidance of Coach Gordon Barton with the assistance of Neil Brayshaw. Barton and Brayshaw put together a side at the start of the season of players that were looking for a challenge and who were willing to put in every week for a shot at promotion.

"I believe what we have achieved this year has been tremendous" Barton said. "We have moulded a side that is very competitive and against a side like Orara we will have to play our best football if we hope to move ahead."

Boambee Bombers captain Mark Blanchard also has full faith in his team "We are going into this match very confident, and although we will be without a couple of key players due to suspension, I am sure that the players who take the park will be ready to play." Blanchard also added "We are all well aware of how good Orara can be and it will up to each player to have a go and ensure our position in Premier League next year."

The game kicks off at 7pm at the Bunker at Middle Boambee and there will be full canteen facilities available.

14th August 2006
NCF Seniors - Rescheduled Games - TUES 15/8 UPDATED INFO

Below is the latest details on Senior rescheduled games from previous weekends washout of fixtures. Other matches will be added when NCF have been advised by clubs.

NBN Premier League Men

Tues 15th August:
Urunga Raiders v Woolgoolga Wolves at UI - KO at 6pm and 8pm
Valley Utd v Coffs Coast Tigers at NH1 on - KO at 6pm and 8pm
Sawtell Scorpions v Westlawn Tigers at AP1 - KO at 6pm and 8pm
(above subject to confirmation of venue & Westlawn ability to attend)

Thur 17th August:
Coffs United Lions v Northern Storm at The Den - KO at 6pm and 8pm
NB: Lions V Storm was earlier stated as Tues 15/8, is NOW Thur 17/8

Premier League Women:
Corindi v Coffs United at The Den on Wed 16th August - KO at 5pm and 7pm

2nd Division:
Boambee v Orara on Thursday 17th at AP1 - KO at 7.00pm.
NB: Referees: could you please appoint referees for this fixture

11th August 2006
Final Series - 3rd Div Men

The Finals Series for the NCF 3rd Division (North and South) will take place as per the dates listed below:

SEMI FINALS: 19TH AUGUST 2006 (1 v 2 and 3 v 4)
FINALS: 26TH AUGUST 2006
GRAND FINAL: 2ND SEPTEMBER 2006
ZONE FINAL: 8TH SEPTEMBER 2006 (Friday Night)

SEMI FINALS DRAWS:

3rd Division North - Clarence
1. Tucabia Bears v 2. Maclean Bobcats TUC 1 @ 1.00pm
3. Grafton City v Westlawn Tigers RP1 @ 1.00pm

3rd Division South - Coffs Harbour
1. Corindi Red Rock Breakers v Woolgoolga Dolphins CO1 @ 1.00pm
3. Coffs United Jaguars v Orara Valley Dingoes MC2 @ 1.00pm

Please note that Teams 1 and 3 for each semi final are the Host Team for semi finals.