SENIOR MEN
IT was a clinical display of football last weekend as the New Norfolk Panthers secured a commanding 6-2 victory over Hobart City. While the scoreline suggests a comfortable cushion, the action on the pitch told the story of a much grittier, high-octane encounter. From the opening whistle, the pace was relentless. Both sides opted for a “hard and fast” approach, keeping the ball moving and the intensity levels through the roof. Despite the physical nature of the game, it was the technical skill on display that truly stole the show. The Panthers’ ability to maintain composure under pressure allowed them to slice through Hobart’s lines with precision.
The game also celebrated James White, a club stalwart who notched up his 200th senior cap since records have been kept, and not including a whole host of junior caps as well. A defender from way back, “Jimmy” has been a constant feature in the Panthers backline for as long as anyone can remember. Although he may be famous for his own goals, Jimmy has well and truly earned his stripes and stopped a countless number of opposition from scoring. His efforts extend well beyond the pitch, as a committee member and the club’s resident barista, you’ll more often than not see Jimmy manning the coffee machine. He’ll also be seeen setting up before junior rounds, packing up after junior rounds, filling out team sheets and losing every coin toss he’s ever had! Here’s to 200 Jimmy, hopefully many more to come!
UNDER 10 RED
Last Saturday was the first game of the season for the New Norfolk Panthers Under 10 Red who played the New Norfolk Panthers Under 10 Black. From the very start, everyone tried their best, running hard and supporting each other on the field. It was a slow start to get a goal for the red, however they made up for it in the second half. All players in the New Norfolk Panthers Red team worked very well as a team and held the positions they were given well. Most importantly, all players had fun. The most valuable player was awarded to Lincoln.
Ingrid Bull
UNDER 9 RED
New Norfolk Panthers Under 9 Red played Brighton Under 9 Black. The whole team played well together, shared the ball fairly and checked in on each other throughout the whole game. They all listened well and had a fun time with big smiles on their faces. Our MVP for this week was James because of his superstar effort on the field toward the ball and his teammates. He made sure everyone was having a go and he ran straight over and checked on his teammate when she got hurt. I’m proud of our team for their first game for the season.
Kaitlyn Billinghurst
UNDER 9 BLACK
What a fantastic effort from our team. Despite the rain and being short on players, everyone took to the field with enthusiasm and passion. A huge thank you to Brighton Storm for lending us a couple of players. This support really made a difference. Our Under 9 Black team played an amazing game and should be very proud of their effort. Well done, everyone. Our MVP was River Triffitt.
Nikki Shearing
UNDER 8 RED
Despite the cold and other setbacks, this young team shows true character. The first match of the season didn’t just mark the beginning of competition, it became a true test of character. On a cold autumn morning with the wind cutting through the pitch, a group of 8-year-olds showed that their determination would be stronger than the conditions. With two players absent, the team took the field with five, supported by three fill-in players from another team who stepped in with great attitude and teamwork. Mathias was the goalkeeper for the first half, with Brylin, Jonah, Liam and Austin on the field. In the second half, Brylin moved into goal while Mathias pushed forward, highlighting the group’s versatility and commitment. From the opening whistle, this was a united team. Every contest, every pass and every effort spoke of a group that simply doesn’t give up. While the result didn’t go their way, something far more important stood out – the heart of this team. The work done during the week, led by Bec at training, was evident across the pitch. Discipline, structure and teamwork are already taking shape. Individually, Liam (MVP) stood out for his effort, attitude and leadership, constantly lifting those around him.
The support from the sidelines also played its part. Parents showed up, encouraged and stood behind the team every step of the way. From a coaching perspective, leading in a second language brings its own challenges, but also makes the journey all the more rewarding, especially with the support and leadership of Bob. This is just the beginning, but if this first match proved anything it’s this: this team doesn’t just play, they feel, they fight, and they grow together.
Elkin Santiago
SENIOR WOMEN
The Panthers women produced a statement performance on the weekend, overwhelming Hobart with a blend of composure, intensity, and attacking flair in a match that showcased the team’s growing confidence and cohesion. From the opening whistle, the Panthers controlled the tempo, dictated possession, and demonstrated a level of discipline that left Hobart struggling to find answers.
The breakthrough came almost instantly. Just two minutes into the match, Samantha opened the scoring with a calm, clinical strike that sailed past the keeper, setting the tone for what would become a relentless attacking display. Moments later, she doubled the lead, rising above the defence to head home a perfectly delivered kick from Jess – a textbook finish that highlighted the Panthers’ setpiece precision.
By the 22nd minute, the Panthers’ pressure proved too much for Hobart’s back line. Jess capitalised on a defensive lapse, slotting home the third goal and sending the Panthers into half-time with a commanding 3–0 advantage. The break brought a special moment for the club as the team celebrated Jess’s 50th game, marking the milestone with cheers, streamers, and a wellearned ovation. The celebration seemed to fuel her even further. Returning to the pitch with renewed fire, she unleashed a stunning longrange strike from well outside the 18yard box, driving the ball cleanly into the net and extending the Panthers’ lead in spectacular fashion.
The Panthers’ midfield were instrumental in maintaining control throughout the match. Asia and Bec worked tirelessly to win possession, press Hobart’s midfield, and keep the Panthers’ play calm and structured. Their ability to break up play and transition quickly allowed the forwards to attack with freedom. Mel’s introduction added fresh energy and attacking spark, with Mel coming close to scoring after a sharp run through the centre. On the wings, Tegan and Sarah were dominant, stretching Hobart’s defensive shape and consistently creating opportunities with their pace, movement, and smart decision-making.
While the attack flourished, the Panthers’ defensive unit was equally impressive. Adele, Claire, Nadia, and Abby formed a disciplined and wellorganised back line, stepping up with precision and catching Hobart offside on the majority of their forward attempts. Their communication and structure denied Hobart any meaningful chances and kept the Panthers firmly in control. Behind them, goalkeeper Sara delivered a composed and confident performance, securing a clean sheet through decisive positioning and excellent anticipation. She stepped off her
line repeatedly to shut down dangerous runs, ensuring Hobart never found a way back into the contest.
The Panthers continued to push forward late in the match, refusing to let the intensity drop. Jasmine produced a trademark burst of speed, breaking through Hobart’s defence and guiding the ball into the net with a composed finish. Tegan followed suit, adding a welldeserved goal of her own to cap off a dominant team performance.
From start to finish, the Panthers delivered a complete and commanding display built on teamwork, discipline, and sheer determination. Every player contributed, every line held strong, and the result was a match that not only thrilled spectators but showcased just how far this squad has come. It was, in every sense, an absolute smashing game to watch and a clear reminder that the Panthers are more than capable of holding their own and rising to every challenge placed before them.
Erin Turner
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