Hard battles for Te Awamutu teams

• Published date: 25 April 2024
• Author: FOOTBALL
• Publication title: Te Awamutu Courier

Under 23

The Under 23 side kicked off the morning on a gloomy note, hoping to put the previous fixture behind them.

They frustrated the home team for the majority of the first half, with the front three working hard to create a breakthrough in the home defence.

The teams went into halftime with a score of 3-0 in favour of the home side, but Te Awamutu were still in the game.

Unfortunately, an injury to Aaron Cole left Te Awamutu fielding 10 players for most of the second half and the home side took advantage, scoring nine more goals.

The final score was 12-0.

Burgerfuel MVP Man of the Match: Oudom Oun.

Premier:

After a disappointing home loss the previous week, the Te Awamutu AFC premier team knew they had to turn their fortunes around.

Youngster Giulio Bernasconi earned his first start after impressing the coaching staff in two previous bench appearances.

His pace and strength troubled the home side.

Although Taupō took the lead in the 13th minute, it didn’t diminish the fight or spirit Te Awamutu have shown throughout the season.

Just before halftime, Bernasconi rounded the rushing goalkeeper and picked his spot, but the ball was somehow cleared off the line.

Both teams returned from halftime knowing the next goal would be crucial.

Taupō’s shot from a distance caused young Ryan Cole some trouble, leading to a goal.

The third goal sealed a 3-0 victory for the home side.

Despite the loss Te Awamutu executed their game plan well, causing Taupō issues, as mentioned in the post-match proceedings.

This week they will host table-topping Cambridge at home.

Burgerfuel MVP Man of the Match: Sam Reidy

Division Two:

On a wet Saturday, the Te Awamutu AFC J&J Construction and Fencing Division Two team didn’t let the weather deter them from playing against Thames, their third game of the season.

Te Awamutu had high hopes for this game, and although it swung in favour of one team, both sides fought hard until the end.

They started with a swift attack into Thames’ half, but Thames quickly regained possession and moved down the field.

The Te Awamutu defenders cleared the ball for a corner, which was saved by the keeper, putting Te Awamutu back on the offensive.

A penalty just outside Thames’ box was awarded to Te Awamutu, and Joe Conner took the kick towards the keeper.

The keeper dropped the ball in front of him, allowing Troy Winter to score, giving Te Awamutu the lead.

However, Thames swiftly retaliated, breaking through Te Awamutu’s defensive line to equalise.

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