The Deniliquin District Soccer Club fields were once again buzzing with energy, excitement and community spirit on Saturday.
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Round two of the competition delivered another action-packed morning of junior soccer in perfect weather conditions.
From the first whistle to the final goal, players across all grades showcased incredible teamwork, determination and sportsmanship, proving once again why soccer continues to be one of the region’s most inclusive and family-friendly sports.
A-grade
A-grade produced some of the most thrilling football of the day, with Team 1 narrowly defeating Team 3 in a heart-racing 4-3 clash.
Spectators were treated to fast counterattacks, brilliant passing, strong goalkeeping and end-to-end action.
Team 1 held their nerve in the dying stages to secure the win after Team 3 mounted a fierce late comeback.
Team 3 impressed with patience in attack and relentless pressure, while Team 1’s clinical finishing and teamwork proved the difference.
The open team (Team 4) stamped their authority early with a dominant 7-0 victory over Team 2.
The parents and adults showed impressive skills and fitness, with the match highlighting just how competitive and entertaining the open division is becoming.
Despite the tough result, Team 2 continued to battle hard all game, with goalkeeper Jack Steenholt producing some outstanding saves under pressure.
B-grade
B-grade saw some fantastic teamwork and individual highlights.
Team 3 defeated Team 1, 5-1, while Team 4 overcame Team 2 in a competitive 3-1 encounter.
Levi Robson starred for Team 4 with two goals after being beautifully set up by teammates, while Pedro Ogodo added another after strong work across the field.
Team 2 never stopped applying pressure and were rewarded for their persistence with a goal of their own.
A standout moment from the grade came via Havana Sztejman’s sensational free kick for Team 1, drawing cheers from spectators on the sidelines.
C-grade
C-grade delivered plenty of determination, grit and laughs.
Team 3 defeated Team 1 in a hard-fought 2-0 battle, with Ted Pisasale defending brilliantly for Red while Raimy Henderson was rock solid in goals.
Archie Rourke eventually cracked the defence late in the game with two excellent finishes.
Team 4 also displayed wonderful teamwork and sportsmanship in their 5-0 victory over Team 2.
One of the highlights of the entire day came during the C-grade clash when the referee, Havana, was forced to mediate a hilarious free kick dispute not between opponents, but between four teammates all wanting to take the kick.
Havana quickly solved the problem with a rock-paper-scissors knockout tournament, complete with sudden-death rounds, leaving parents and spectators laughing on the sidelines.
Ted was deservedly awarded the sportsperson award for his excellent teamwork and attitude throughout the match.
D-grade
D-grade produced two exciting contests to close out the morning.
Team 4 defeated Team 2 by 4-1 in a close game that remained competitive until late.
Riva Clarke impressed with some excellent goals, while Archie Fitzgerald and Addie Barker were strong in defence.
Team 3 edged out Team 1 in a thrilling 5-4 victory despite missing two strong players, with the team stepping up impressively across the field.
Summer Londrigan also earned praise for filling in and playing a fantastic game.
Team 2 continued to improve in what was their first game together as a full side, showing excellent effort, passing and enthusiasm throughout the match.
Tom Callanan was outstanding in defence, while Frankie Murphy covered plenty of ground in support.
Kangas and Joeys
Meanwhile, the Kangas and Joeys program continued to thrive, with the club’s youngest players enjoying another fantastic week of skill-building games and activities.
Coaches were thrilled with the improvement being shown in controlled kicking, movement and ball trapping.
The involvement of parents and family members continues to play a huge role in helping the young players grow in confidence and enjoyment.
The club would also like to remind all parents and spectators to please support and respect the club’s young referees.
These junior volunteers are an extremely important part of the club and are still learning and developing their confidence.
The committee has reinforced that overly vocal behaviour toward referees will not be tolerated, with the focus remaining on fun, learning and positive sportsmanship for all involved.
Round three promises even more excitement this Saturday at Rotary Park, with another full morning of matches.
9.30am: A-grade - Team 2 vs Team 3; B-grade - Team 2 vs Team 3; B-grade - Team 1 vs Team 4; Kangas and Joeys.
10.30am: A-grade - Team 1 vs Team 4; C-grade - Team 2 vs Team 3; C-grade - Team 1 vs Team 4; D-grade - Team 2 vs Team 3; D-grade - Team 1 vs Team 4.