The chilly weather may have arrived in Deniliquin, but the action on the soccer field was anything but.
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The Deniliquin District Soccer Club delivered another exciting round of matches, with tight finishes and draws adding to the excitement.
A-grade
The match of the day belonged to A3 and A4 (Open Team), with the adults narrowly escaping with a dramatic 6-5 victory.
Trailing 5-1 in the second half, A3 looked down and out before producing one of the comebacks of the season.
Through relentless defensive pressure, smart passing and sheer determination, they clawed their way back to level the scores at 5-5.
However, with the very last kick of the game, A4 snatched victory in heartbreaking fashion.
The clash between A1 and A2 also provided plenty of excitement, finishing in a 3-3 draw.
An early goal from Elliot Loughridge gave Team 2 plenty of confidence, with some excellent passages of play involving five and six players combining beautifully across the field.
Abby Hornung and Jaxon Moroney were outstanding in defence throughout the contest.
Team 1 battled hard all day, with Blaine Taylor working tirelessly in goals during the first half.
Despite creating numerous opportunities, the team struggled to find the back of the net before halftime.
Ahmed Labib stepped up strongly in goals during the second half as Team 1 fought back, eventually finding their scoring touch in the dying minutes to earn a well-deserved draw.
B-grade
B2 continued their strong form with a 3-0 victory over B1, while B3 and B4 couldn't be separated, finishing in an exciting 2-2 draw.
Despite yet to register a win this season, the all-girls B1 side continues to impress everyone with their determination, resilience and team spirit.
Week after week they show up ready to compete, and not one player is looking to give up or switch teams.
The match between B3 and B4 was a thrilling contest from start to finish.
Team 3 held the lead for most of the game before Benny Ross struck in the final minutes to level the scores and secure a dramatic draw for Team 4.
Played in fantastic spirit, both teams displayed excellent sportsmanship and determination, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats throughout.
B2 showcased exceptional teamwork, determination and passing.
Special recognition goes to the girls who filled in and generously gave their time to help the team, contributing to a terrific all-round performance.
C-grade
C-grade once again proved to be one of the most competitive divisions of the competition.
C1 edged out C2 in a hard-fought 1-0 victory, while C3 claimed a narrow 3-2 win over C4.
C2's coach praised both teams for a very good game, while C1 demonstrated resilience and teamwork to grind out the win.
Every touch had to be earned, with tired legs evident by full-time, but effort levels never dropped.
Will Marett was awarded sportsperson honours after a brilliant display of determination in a match where every player contributed.
C3 delivered what many described as their best game of the season.
Archie Rourke produced a magnificent strike into the top corner, while Maxi Robson and Lenny Morris both finished off excellent team build-up play.
C4 defended bravely throughout and remained in the contest until the final whistle despite struggling at times with the larger field, which led to fatigue setting in earlier than usual.
D-grade
Goals flowed freely in D-grade, with D2 defeating D1 8-3 and D3 edging out D4 3-2.
D1's coach found it impossible to single out one standout performer, praising every player for their fantastic effort and commitment throughout the game.
D2 once again displayed outstanding sportsmanship by loaning players to D1.
Gabriel Olabampe was unstoppable in attack, scoring five goals, while Ruby Allitt, Frankie Murphy and Olivia Allitt formed a rock-solid defensive unit.
Tom Callanan also enjoyed a unique afternoon, scoring two goals for D2 and two for D1.
The D3 versus D4 clash was another thriller.
D3 took an early lead through some excellent attacking play, before D4 responded with two goals built on strong passing combinations.
D3 refused to give up and eventually snatched victory with a late goal.
Gus Donaldson continually delivered dangerous crosses into attack, while Eddie Chartres, Monte Chartres, Pip Hooke and Bridie Hooke were always ready to take their chances in front of goal.
George Fellows celebrated his debut goal before adding a second on the final siren.
Liam Hill's defensive kicking was outstanding, while Lucy Milliken displayed tremendous bravery when facing a penalty kick following an unfortunate handball in the box.
Fortunately for D3, the penalty was unsuccessful.
Kangas and Joeys
The cold weather may have kept a few young players tucked up at home, but the Kangas and Joeys who braved the conditions had an absolute blast.
There was plenty of kicking, sliding, running and smiling as the club's youngest stars showcased the skills they've been learning throughout the season.
It was a fun-filled morning and another reminder of what DDSC soccer is all about.
There will be no soccer this coming long weekend.
Competition returns on Saturday, June 13 with the following fixtures:
9.30am: A2 vs A4 (Open), B1 vs B3, B2 vs B4, Kangas and Joeys.
10.30am: A1 vs A3, C1 vs C3, C2 vs C4, D1 vs D3, D2 vs D4.
After another fantastic round of matches, players, families and supporters can enjoy a well-earned break before the action resumes in a fortnight.