THE New Norfolk Soccer Club’s senior teams had no games last weekend, leaving the juniors to fly the flag for the Panthers.
Under 5 v Holy Rosary: It was great to see everyone have a go and the sun shining. There were a lot of subs this week but it was great to hear all the kids cheering from the sidelines. Our Maccas MVP was Charlie who kicked his first goal, had improved dribbling skills and celebrated beautifully.
Under 6 Red v Brighton Storm: Under-6 Red worked really well together this week, with some great passing and plenty of effort from everyone on the field. There were a few excellent goals scored, and the players did a good job spreading out and supporting each other throughout the game.
Under 6 Black v St Pauls: Saturday’s game was a big one for our Under-6 team. The sun was quite warm and no one was on the bench, so the whole team played a full 40 minutes. They ran their legs off and really showed they are improving with calling for the ball, their team work and defence. They all played very well, didn’t give up and had lots of fun. It is fantastic to see their skills improving and the friendships they are making through sportsmanship.
Under 7 v Brighton Storm: The sun was shining and the kids were eager to play after a couple of weeks off. Both teams played a great game, with teamwork, effort and plenty of determination on display from start to finish. It was fantastic to see the team really coming together and supporting each other on the field. Jack was a pocket rocket, showing speed and confidence all game and scoring three goals. His energy, effort and determination earned him the Maccas MVP. Fletcher also had a great game and scored a goal for the team, adding to the strong team performance and showing great effort throughout. The players showed excellent teamwork in defence, staying focused and never giving up. It was a brilliant game to watch, with every player giving their best and showing how much they are improving each week. A proud day.
Under 8 Black v Brighton: A great game for our third hit-out. Some obvious confidence has been built and everyone stepped up to play a game we were all proud of. The opponents were bigger than the biggest of our kids but we were not intimidated. Brilyn starred up front and did a great job of attacking the ball and setting us up for shots on goal. At the other end Izzy had an amazing debut in goals, showing some fierce determination and coach-ability! The Maccas MVP this week goes to Izzy.
Under 8 Red v St Paul’s: After a well-deserved break during the school holidays, we returned to the field for a very special third match for the boys and girls on the team. The day was blessed with a beautiful sunny morning at Weily Park, the perfect setting to enjoy football. On this occasion, we had an almost full squad. Isabelle was absent due to family commitments, while Brylin had been assigned to another team. Lewis started as goalkeeper and switched positions with Mila in the second half. The rest of the team was made up of Liam, Jonah, Mathias, Austin, Clementine, Edith, Mila and James. The last four were new additions to the team. James was selected as the Maccas MVP of the match for his outstanding performance. However, beyond this individual recognition, the most valuable aspect was the team’s overall performance. Every player showed a very positive attitude, reflecting significant improvement compared to previous matches. The group displayed courage, communication, respect and, above all, strong unity on the field. There are certainly areas we will continue to work on, but this match left us with many positive impressions. We were especially pleased with the commitment, joy and team spirit shown in every play. In the end, this match represented exactly what we aim for as coaches: for every child to enjoy football, participate in sport in a safe and healthy environment, and continue developing not only football skills but also values that will stay with them both on and off the field.
Under 9 Red: It was great weather at Weily Park and put in a strong team performance. Eric Murray was named Maccas MVP after a cracker of a game, leading by example. The team showed great effort, found some valuable learning moments, and everyone had a fantastic game day.
Under 9 White: The team delivered a fantastic performance in their match against their fellow New Norfolk side. Kicking off at noon under a bright sky at Weily Park, the team showcased impressive teamwork on the pitch. It was a spirited local contest that highlighted the burgeoning talent within the New Norfolk Panthers Soccer Club’s junior ranks. Well done team.
Under 10 Red v Brighton Storm: Both teams demonstrated excellent team work on the day, where communication between players was strong. Brighton were a strong team but New Norfolk put up a commendable fight where all players stayed in position keeping play exciting. Carter played an exceptional game for Brighton and Tess earnt herself the Maccas Most Valuable Player award for New Norfolk by selflessly volunteering for the position of goalie.
Under 10 Black had a bye.
Under 11 Red: Wow, what a game! These kids played so well, their teamwork was great, passing the ball and really working as a team. Well done to Chelsea for first time in the goals and doing an extraordinary job. Well done special mention to Matilda to stepping up and filling in. Maccas MVP goes to Chayse Francis, always giving 100%.
Under 11 Black v Howrah: In their first match in the Eastern Regions League, the Under-11 Black Panthers played a tough match against an experienced Howrah white team. Will Hartigan stepped up, playing positions in the back, midfield and front line where he scored a beauty of a goal, earning player of the match for his efforts. The Panthers showed tenacity and that they are growing in their confidence playing together as a team. With Boston Gordon holding the back line together at center back and strong showings from new players including Amaylah Butterworth’s second half in goals and Lucas Pages high intensity style of play, they are looking forward to an exciting season ahead.
Under 12 Black v Dodges Ferry: We had a great game against Dodges Ferry at Cambridge. The Under-12s held their positions well and are really getting the hang of sending the ball up the sideline to the forwards. The forwards had a couple of good chances but didn’t find the back of the net. It was a great game and we look forward to playing them again.
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