SENIOR WOMEN
THE New Norfolk Women faced one of their hardest challenges of the year last weekend at Sorell, taking the field with just 11 players against a well‑drilled and physically dominant South East United side. Despite the uphill battle, the Panthers showed grit, humour and unwavering team spirit in what became their biggest loss of the season. From the opening whistle, United sent wave after wave of attacks toward goal.
With no substitutes available, every Panther was forced to dig deep, absorb heavy challenges, and keep pushing through fatigue. Even as the scoreboard stretched, the determination never faded. Despite the intensity, United proved to be not only strong competitors but also respectful and enjoyable opponents, keeping the match spirited and sportsmanlike throughout.
The Panthers’ second half showed real fight. Despite losing a player, they managed several promising runs forward and pushed into attacking territory. Although they couldn’t convert, the effort lifted the mood of the match. What stood out most was the unity. The communication stayed positive, heads stayed high, and no one stopped working for the teammate beside them.
In a game where the odds were stacked from the start, resilience became the real story. The scoreboard may have read 11-0, but the Panthers walked off with pride intact – bruised, exhausted, but still smiling, still laughing, and still very much a team. The Panthers return to Tynwald Park this weekend for a showdown with Taroona – back on home soil and hungry for the result, the squad is ready to push for the win.
ERIN TURNER
SENIOR MEN
THE New Norfolk men put in a determined performance against the New Town Eagles in a hard-fought contest last weekend even though the result didn’t go their way. The game started explosively for the Panthers with Sam Plunkett-Smith unleashing an absolute bullet early in the match to give the Panthers the perfect start.
The Eagles responded midway through the first half to level the scores, but Sam wasn’t done yet, finding the back of the net again just minutes later to restore the lead. With the game being played at a high intensity, New Town managed to strike again with just three minutes left before half-time, sending both sides into the break locked at 2-2.
The second half turned into a tough physical battle, with both teams hustling hard and creating chances. Unfortunately for the Panthers, it was the Eagles who managed to find the only goal after the break, edging out a narrow 3-2 victory. While the result didn’t fall our way, the effort and fight shown across the park never dropped, with plenty of positives to take into the next match.
JUNIOR COMPETITION
Under 5 v St Paul’s: Our team showed fantastic effort again this week, with every player working hard, having fun, and building their skills. It’s been great to see their confidence growing, along with their teamwork, listening skills and determination on the field. A big congratulations to Eddie, who took home this week’s Maccas MVP award for his outstanding all-round effort, positive attitude and great teamwork. Well done, Eddie, and well done team.
Under 6 Red v Holy Rosary: The team had a fun and energetic game this week against some great competition, with both sides keeping the action going from start to finish. There were some fantastic passes, a few awesome goals and plenty of smiles, teamwork and running around.
Under 6 Black v Brighton: The team played well against Brighton Storm. We saw amazing foot work and lots of really focused and purposeful running to get the ball to where it needed to be. There was great calling for the ball and we saw the team trying to think about the ball and how to help each other out. They all did so well and we have two Maccas MVPs: Riley and Rosie who ran so well with the ball and had excellent foot work. Very proud of our team. They are all growing and improving each week.
Under 7 v DOSA: A fantastic game showing great teamwork, improved passing skills, and making sure everyone was included and involved on the field. It’s been wonderful to see the players encouraging each other, working together, and growing in confidence every week. The team should be very proud of the positive attitude and sportsmanship they continue to show at both training and games. Well done team.
Under 8 Red v Brighton: For their fourth game of the season, the team took to the pitch with a full squad: Lewis, Jonah, Liam, Isabelle, Austin, Edith, Mila, Mathias and Clementine, who proudly wore the captain’s armband. The game was a clear reflection of the growth this group is experiencing both on and off the pitch. From the opening whistle, they displayed commitment, respect, communication and, above all, the joy with which each player embraced the game. That is one of the most valuable aspects of this journey. When the pressure of chasing a result is set aside, what truly matters begins to shine through. The children are free to enjoy themselves, learn and develop in a safe, positive and supportive environment. Every player contributed with enthusiasm and dedication. On this occasion, the Maccas MVP award went to Clementine, who stood out for her leadership, positive attitude and commitment throughout the match. We sincerely thank all the families for their ongoing support and for being part of this wonderful journey. Special recognition goes to Tom (Mila’s dad), Sarah (James’ mum) and Andrew (Lewis’s dad), for their valuable help and commitment to the team.
Under 8 Black v Holy Rosary: A well played game by theis great bunch of kids. They played against a tough and experienced team but never gave up. Playing soccer for the first time and and putting his hand up as goalie for the first half was Finley Triffett, and even though he gave it a good crack some of the kicks from the opposition were just unstoppable. The Maccas MVP award for this game went to Sofia with a special mention for her great goal. A great little team of rising stars.
Under 9 Red v Holy Rosary: In great weather at Brighton, the team took on Holy Rosary in an exciting match. The team displayed some fantastic footwork and strong teamwork throughout the game, working well together and supporting each other on the field. Thomas was named Maccas MVP for his outstanding performance, while Bryce, our captain for the day, showed excellent leadership and sportsmanship. Their positive attitude set a great example, with the rest of the team following suit. Well done to everyone for a great game and a fantastic team effort.
Under 9 Black v DOSA: The team put in a courageous effort in a hard-fought match against DOSA, with both teams delivering an energetic and highly competitive game from start to finish. With no substitutes available for either side, the match became a real test of stamina and determination. Every player stayed on the field for the entire game, working tirelessly and continuing to give their all even as fatigue set in. DOSA proved to be a strong opposition, creating a very physical contest where every ball was fiercely contested. The Panthers rose to the challenge, showing plenty of grit, strong teamwork and a willingness to keep battling no matter how tough the game became. Supporters and coaches are proud of the resilience shown by both teams. Playing a full game without subs is never easy. It was a tough but rewarding morning of soccer and another strong performance that highlighted the Panthers’ determination, teamwork, and fighting spirit.
Under 10 Red had a bye.
Under 10 Black v St Paul’s: This team took on St Paul’s in a great display of teamwork, effort and sportsmanship. The team showed great determination from the first whistle, working hard for each other and never giving up. There were plenty of exciting runs up the field as the players continued to build their confidence and skills. Big congratulations to all players for their positive attitude and effort throughout the game.
Under 11 Red v Cambridge: Another great game played by this team. It was a well played game by both teams with a lot of skill shown on the field. The teamwork and encouragement shown during the whole game is what really makes up the team. Thanks to Jack and Will for helping the team out and filling in. Well done to both goalie girls who saved same fast-paced goals. Awesome job girls well done. The Maccas MVP for this game went to Chelsea Hanlon who is very new to soccer and is always giving 110% out on the field. Well done Chelsea and the rest of the team.
Under 11 Black had a bye.
Under 12 Black v Under 12 Red: Coach Sally was away so husband Charlie coached this one as Black played a friendly game on a sunny Saturday morning at Brighton against the Panthers Under-12 Red. It’s always terrific to play a friendly against the other Panthers team – we’re all New Norfolk! It was a great team effort, with Naomi the best player for the day and the Maccas MVP award winner, capping a great performance with three goals late in the second half.
Under 12 Red v Under 12 Black: Red played New Norfolk Under-12 Black on Saturday morning in Brighton. The game started quite evenly with a few shots on goal from each team. New Norfolk Black then scored two quick goals followed by another just before half time. The second half started with a few missed shots from New Norfolk Red before Zach kicked a bullet into the net from a tight angle. The Maccas MVP was Jack.
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One Response
Great article in the face of adversity Erin. Things will get better.