2 August 2009

WSAFC entered an 8th grade team in the Three Kings United tournament on 2 August. Our team consisted of the indefatigable Margot Ramsay plus 9 boys: Bronson Gleye, Cameron Dallas, Harrison Chadwick, Jack Naish, Matthew Wright, Millar Pennycook, Sachin Bhana, Samuel Alexander, and Sidney Boyd.

We got off to an extraordinary start, winning our first game against Papakura 9-0. But the competition toughened up considerably after that. Our second game was a hard fought 0-0 draw with Bay Olympic, and then we came back with a 3-2 win against Ellerslie. It was a terrific morning’s effort for a team that had practiced together only once. As a result we were placed 2nd in our pool - narrowly missing 1st place on goal difference - and proceeded through to the Plate semi-final.

We met Waitakere in our semi-final and they were formidable opponents. After a sustained attack, Millar scored a brilliant goal which took us into the lead 1-0. And thanks to some solid defending by the whole team and fine goal-keeping by Sachin, we hung on until the full-time whistle. To everyone’s surprise and delight, we were in the Plate final!

We played East Coast Bays in the final. It was a valiant effort for 10 pairs of tired legs. The game was close and we were unlucky to lose 1-2. Our goal was scored by Sidney, bringing his total for the day to six – a fantastic effort. We finished the day as Plate final runners-up, and the players were thrilled to each receive a medal at the prize-giving.

Special congratulations to Sidney for his scintillating soccer and goal-scoring prowess, which earned him the 8th grade Golden Boot trophy for most goals scored. And thanks to our coach for the day, Grant Ramsay, for his gentle guidance. All in all it was a long, tiring, but wonderful day.