Stragglers struggle

Tok side lacks execution

Tokoroa’s Federation Two side were once again left frustrated by the lack of finishing in a tense 0- 0 draw with fellow strugglers West Hamilton at Strathmore Park.

In a battle for the wooden spoon, Tokoroa began strongly and were able to dominate the possession statistics for the first twenty minutes as Chris Teague, Gareth Williams and Billy Manthey displayed composure on the ball and a desire to maintain possession.

This allowed attacking players David Wright, Connor Wood and Michael Fitzpatrick to get forward and some intricate interplay should have been rewarded with at least one goal. The importance of taking opportunities created was highlighted as West Ham finished the stronger of the two teams and were unlucky when one shot rattled the home team’s crossbar.

The second half was a turgid affair that lacked quality in the final third as both teams started to tire.

Tokoroa will feel they should have taken the points as David Wright, Cody Chesterman and Michael Fitzpatrick all went agonisingly close to winning the match.

Meanwhile the Tokoroa ladies team continued their quest for a league title with a comfortable 3-0 away win over bottom laced Otorohonga on Sunday.

Jane Honey with a double and Paige McCloskey scored, while the clean sheet was ensured by a well organised back four.

With title deciding games against the top two teams up next for the locals, the result was more important than the performance.

With an exciting crop of talented youngsters coming through and a possession based style of play, Tokoroa have exceeded all expectations this year to be part of a three horse race for the title with Hamilton Wanderers and Waikato Unicol.