Round One: APJSC Under 10 White vs Shellharbour White

The Albion Park Junior Soccer Club Under 10 Whites started the new season with their match against Shellharbour White at Myimbar Oval this morning. With only one training session possible due to the rain, the team was a bit rusty, but after a rocky start managed to put their best boots forward.

The first half was dominated by the Park opponents, who could have been a number of goals up, if not for the excellent goalkeeping of Jack Tate and good defensive plays from Brock Young and Josh Peters. Indeed, it should have been 1-1 when Noah Black got a ball through the goalie which certainly hit the top net, only to be denied by the referee. A goal at the other end a minute later meant the score was instead 2-0 instead, and signalled a change in the fortunes of the match. Another two quick goals were matched by a great move between Ky Van Helden and Noah which Noah finished off for the first (official) goal of the year for the team. Half time it was 1-4.

The second half was highlighted by a tremendous effort from the whole AP White team, who fought tenaciously against their well drilled opponents. New team recruits Belle and Claire Kadwell were both fantastic, running hard and giving their opponents not a moments respite. Zoe Middleton was dreadfully unlucky not to add a goal to the total when she just missed an attacking play in the goalmouth. Indy Middleton worked hard through the centre of the field in both attack and defence. Super Sub Zahli Middleton came on and added pace and enthusiasm in the second half, surprising their opponents with her guile. Jack Tate and Brock Young were again excellent in defence while second half goalie Josh Peters did his job well.
Shellharbour could only manage to score one goal in the second half through this excellent effort from the green and gold wall, and though the final score favoured them 1-5 it was a most enjoyable game to watch, and the kids were all fantastic.

Coaches Shane Black and Matt Middleton look to have a good fun team on their hands this season, and we are all looking forward to next week already. Also thanks to Andy Middleton for his refereeing in the second half and general encouragement of both teams.

Josh about to save a shot at goal in the second half of the match.