Football Report
Saturday 11 May 2024 Match Results
First XI vs Newington 1-2 loss
On Saturday, the First XI came up against a very strong Newington side away at Tempe Reserve. Despite the cold and rain, the game kicked off to a very high intensity, but due to an unfortunate mistake from Shore, Newington was able to capitalise and take the lead early on. Regardless, Shore kept working and, just towards the conclusion of the first-half, were able to score an excellent team goal, assisted by Liam McFarlane and slotted in by Charlie Mattison. During the second-half, the match remained very tight and competitive, with Shore creating many chances against Newington and holding a strong back line, excellently coordinated by Ben Hadfield. Unfortunately, with the last kick of the game, Newington were able to score off a set-piece, and the game finished 2-1 in the opposition’s favour.
Second XI vs Newington 0-2 loss
Shore started the game off with great tempo, pressing high to win the ball back and attempting to break down the Newington defence. This tempo was seen throughout the first-half as Shore and Newington battled in a tough first-half. The constant rain did not faze Shore as they continued to pass the ball around Newington and were unlucky not to grab a goal going into the half. The second-half started the same, with Shore continuing to put pressure on the Newington backline. A few missed chances from Shore were costly as Newington grabbed 2 quick goals to take the lead. Jono Loy made many crucial saves to rescue the tired Shore team from further goals scored against them. The game ended 2-0 to Newington, but it was an inspiring game for Shore to build on.
Third XI vs Newington 2-5 loss
The La Niña weather was going to play its part in this fixture, along with the boys’ lack of training while they were away on Step Up Camp. Despite the change of ground to a synthetic pitch, the players knew that the pitch was still likely to prove testing. The opening exchanges were played in a furious style, with the visitors having a chance in the first minute. A confident Ethan Spark was soon required to clear a long Newington ball that had penetrated the defence. Shore was looking to hit back but was exposed by Newington on the left-hand side, and a perfect cross saw their striker score. Shore then produced some exciting attacking play and was awarded a penalty for handball, which Chris Griffiths coolly tucked away. The next 15 minutes was a display of one-way traffic, with Newington exposing Shore’s lack of composure, scoring 3 quick goals. Half-time Shore 1 vs 4 Newington. Shore attacked straight from the whistle in the second-half, putting Newington on the backfoot from a resulting set play and Oliver Roxburgh smashing home the opening goal. It was from this point on that the game really opened up with possibilities for both sides. Newington went on to score again at the end of the game, resulting in a 2-5 loss. The boys can take away many messages from this game, including the importance of good communication.
15A’s vs Newington 1-5 loss
The 15A’s performed extremely well against a strong, well-balanced Newington A squad, with the score being 1-1 going into half-time with a quality counter-attacking goal by the team scored by Lucas Newton. The team showed many positive signs within the game: hunger to win possession, work rate, attacking purpose and overall an impressive team effort, considering the squad to be fairly new. The first-half showed two teams batting out a good contest. Unfortunately, we looked to run out of steam and concentration within the second-half, which opened the opportunity for Newington to take advantage. With progression across training sessions and a few matches under the belt, this team will most definitely improve to have this score line be different next time around.
15B’s vs Newington 0-4 loss
Coming off a tight loss from the week before, the Shore 15B’s came into the game against the Newington 15B’s with a renewed desire to perform. The match once again started quickly, with both teams trading attacks as they looked to take first blood. Unfortunately for the boys, they found themselves behind by two goals thanks to wonder strikes from the opposition. Moving into the second-half, the boys battled hard against Newington but regrettably were unable to capitalise on their chances, with Newington finishing off two well-worked attacks of their own. Special mentions must go to goalkeeper Nick Whitney, who performed outstandingly in the goal and kept us in the game for long periods.
15C’s vs Newington 0-14 loss
Tough result with the 15C’s having faced a highly technical, skilled Newington team. The team really struggled based on our technical ability, shape, and principles of play, for example, congesting, expanding, pushing up, and dropping back, although we displayed great fight and belief while pursuing a score. We will look to focus on these principles of play going into the week ahead with the goal of reinforcing the areas that need improvement.
15D’s vs Newington 0-10 loss
After coming off a cancelled game from the weekend before due to bad weather the 15D’s were eager to get on the pitch at Northbridge, even in the heavy rain. Unfortunately for the 15D’s, they encountered a strong Newington side who had come to play. The first-half involved a lot of defending, with the boys heading into the change rooms 6-0 down. The second-half saw an improvement, with the boys digging in and fighting for each other. However, it was always going to be an uphill battle with the 15D’s ultimately succumbing to pressure from a very strong opponent.
14A’s vs Newington 2-3 loss
In a rollercoaster match, the 14A’s team displayed resilience and determination despite facing a slow start that saw them trailing 2-0 at half-time. However, a positive response during the break saw them reset their focus and intensity. The second-half showcased their fighting spirit as they created multiple chances, with Andreas Karellas eventually breaking through to bring the score to 2-1. A quick counter attack further fuelled their comeback, with Luca Caruana’s clinical finish levelling the score at 2-2 with 10 minutes remaining. Though the boys battled fiercely, Newington managed a last-minute winner, concluding the match 3-2 in their favour. Nevertheless, the game highlighted the team’s ability to respond under pressure and demonstrated the character within the group.
14B’s vs Newington 0-2 loss
In a hard-fought battle on the pitch, the 14B’s faced off against Newington in a thrilling encounter that ultimately ended in a 2-0 loss for the home team. Throughout the first-half, the match remained tightly contested, with both teams creating scoring chances. However, it was Newington who managed to capitalise on an opening, as their forward expertly found the back of the net with a clinical finish, putting the visitors ahead 1-0. Undeterred by the early setback, the 14B’s intensified their efforts, with midfield maestro Angus Collins orchestrating plays and distributing the ball with precision. As the second-half commenced, the 14B’s pushed forward relentlessly in search of a breakthrough. Striker Fred Stewart displayed exceptional agility and determination, weaving through Newington’s defence in pursuit of a goal. However, Newington’s goalkeeper exhibited remarkable reflexes, thwarting every attempt at goal with impressive saves. In a cruel twist of fate, Newington extended their lead midway through the second-half, courtesy of a well-executed counter attack, which ended up putting the visitors ahead 2-0. Although disappointed by the result, the 14B’s can take pride in their valiant effort and look forward to bouncing back stronger in their next fixture.
14C’s vs Newington 2-0 win
In their first competitive fixture, the 14C team kicked off their season with a memorable game marked by standout performances. Despite a slow start, the boys found their rhythm midway through the first-half, showcasing glimpses of their potential. A defining moment arrived with the introduction of super substitute Chili K, who made an immediate impact by scoring a brace and turning the tide in our favour. However, it was Isaac Lo, our goalkeeper, who emerged as the unsung hero, making crucial saves to preserve a well-deserved clean sheet. With the team starting to gel and move the ball effectively, they secured a convincing 2 – 0 victory, signalling a promising start to their campaign. This win not only marks a significant milestone for the 14C team but also sets a solid foundation for future success.
Top image: Chili K
Mr E de Marchi
MIC Football
