After a three-week winter break, there was plenty of excitement around Rotary Park on Saturday.
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Deniliquin District Soccer Club players laced up their boots once again and returned to the field eager to play.
As the season enters its final weeks, every game becomes even more exciting.
DDSC encourage all families and community members to head down to Rotary Park this Saturday to support our young footballers.
Play times:
9.30am: A1 vs A4 (Open), B2 vs B3, B1 vs B4, Kangas and Joeys.
10.30am: A2 vs A3, C1 vs C4, C2 vs C3, D1 vs D4, D2 vs D3.
Last week’s results were as follows:
A-grade
A1 claimed a solid 5-2 victory over A3, but the scoreline didn’t reflect how competitive the match really was.
A3 displayed excellent defensive communication throughout the game, and a halftime discussion focused on playing shorter passes and maintaining pressure in attack saw them lift their performance in the second half.
A4 (Open) edged out A2 in a thrilling 7-5 encounter.
Stanley Roberts and Elliot Loughridge were outstanding in the middle of the park, controlling play and linking beautifully with their teammates.
Hugo McGrillen opened the scoring with a superbly struck penalty early in the first half, while the team’s passing combinations and overall teamwork highlighted just how much this group continues to improve as the season heads towards finals.
B-grade
B1 defeated B2 3-1 in a spirited contest, highlighted by an incredible attacking display from Amelia Thompson, who netted a brilliant hat-trick, while Millie Thompson also found the back of the net.
Despite the loss, B2 showed great determination at both ends of the field.
Their coaches praised the team’s defensive effort and attacking intent, while acknowledging B1’s excellent teamwork, particularly through their attacking combinations.
In another closely fought contest, B3 overcame B4 2-1.
The boys followed their coach’s instructions brilliantly throughout the game and were rewarded with a well-earned victory.
For B4, Gus McGrillen produced another outstanding defensive performance, while Mitchell Burn made several excellent saves in goals to keep his side in the contest.
Levi Robson scored for the green team, while Harvey Campbell created plenty of opportunities but was denied by some determined defending.
C-grade
Although C1 went down 3-0 to C3, the Red Fury can hold their heads high after one of their strongest team performances of the season.
The scoreboard certainly didn’t tell the full story as the team displayed outstanding teamwork, courage and determination from the opening whistle until full-time.
Their defence stood tall with brave tackles, excellent positioning and constant encouragement for one another.
Congratulations to Campbell Shields, who received the Sportsperson Award after demonstrating exceptional sportsmanship, positivity and respect for both teammates and opponents.
In the other C-grade fixture, C4 defeated C2 4-2 in a very evenly matched contest.
Both teams moved the ball well and produced an entertaining game for families watching from the sidelines.
D-grade
D2 defeated D4 3-0 after an excellent team performance built on strong defence that quickly transitioned into attack.
Tom Callanan led the scoring with two outstanding goals, while Riley Raper was rock-solid in defence.
The girls also played a huge role in controlling the midfield and helping create plenty of attacking opportunities.
The most dramatic game of the morning belonged to D3 and D1, who battled to an incredible 5-all draw.
With several regular players unavailable, D3 fielded an all-girl line-up that showed enormous determination throughout the match.
Trailing 5-4 late in the game, Pip Hooke produced a brilliant individual effort, drifting left before calmly placing her shot into the opposite side of the goal to score a memorable equaliser.
Despite the scoreline, D4 also deserve recognition for some outstanding defensive work, working tirelessly to keep the game competitive against a strong D2 side.
Kangas and Joeys
Despite the chilly conditions, Kangas and Joeys returned full of energy and excitement.
It was obvious many had been practising over the break, with noticeable improvements in ball control, movement and confidence.
Players enjoyed working through their favourite skill drills before finishing with a fun game.