Undefeated run for women
Gippsland United's top women's team has kept its undefeated run going with a big 4-0 win over Mentone on Sunday.
After a very slow start from the State League 3 girls, it wasn't until a 44th minute that United scored.
A through ball from fullback Madi Senini to striker Jewel Kendel Jones allowed her to put the ball in the back of the net.
A huge second half was displayed, with some great ball movement. The work from a solid back four saw United take all three points.
Goals: Jewel Kendel-Jones, Amy Radford, Phoebe Gatti and Mia Guarascio.
State League 4 women's:
Baxter Park came alive for an exhilarating encounter of women's soccer between Gippsland United and Frankston Pines.
The Sunday clash was a display of fair play, passion and exceptional teamwork from both sides.
The game kicked off with United wasting no time in asserting their dominance.
Within the first two minutes, Lexi Prichard capitalised on an early opportunity and fired a brilliant shot into the back of the net, giving United an early lead.
However, Pines responded to the early setback. They fought back with determination and were rewarded with a goal from a corner kick, levelling the score.
Undeterred by the equaliser, United's Mercedes Ince showed her skills and determination, breaking through the Pines' defence and finding the back of the net with a powerful strike.
As the match progressed, tensions rose and both teams fought fiercely to gain an advantage.
Pines, displaying their competitive spirit, earned a penalty shot, which they successfully converted to draw level.
The score now stood at an enthralling 2-2. Throughout the game, United showcased exceptional teamwork and communication. The players encouraged and supported each other, demonstrating a strong sense of unity and determination to succeed.
Despite limited substitutions, the United players exhibited unwavering energy and tenacity, battling on until the final whistle.
Pines proved to be a respectful opponent, with the girls from both teams showing great sportsmanship and camaraderie.
The game was not only a display of skill and athleticism but also an enjoyable experience for all the players involved.
Under 13 girls:
United played Ringwood in an early morning Mothers Day match, winning 4-1.
Anika Nair and Taleah Webb were both strong in mid and defence, pushing the ball forward for Alana Wilson and Almasi Keary who both scored two apiece.
Asha Earwicker and Georgia Nankervis shared goalkeeping duties, getting praise from both sides for their saves on the day.
Aaliyah Phillips also played well in her club debut, earning plenty of the ball.
Under 12 boys:
United played at home against Baxter. They had a very lively start, dominating possession in the first half, but could not get the breakthrough. It was locked at 0-0 at half-time.
It was more of the same in the second half, with Baxter not troubling United keeper Ashton.
With 10 minutes to go, against the run of play, a drop in concentration in defence allowed Baxter to score. United's Arlo Court was unlucky not to score, hitting the bar, and Eddy Marriott hit the post.
As a result, Baxter hung on to take the win. Best on ground went to Hunter Roberts who worked tirelessly up front.
Under 12 girls:
United had a highly skilled game against Dandenong City, coming away 6-1 winners.
Almasi Keary overcame some strong marking to add another four goals to her season total.
Ruby Reidy scored twice and created opportunities for her teammates all game.
The defence was again outstanding.
Ava Munro, Matilda Bentley-Bernard and Morgan Knowles continue to grow, playing strong games and all providing a goal assist.
Under 11 boys:
The winning streak continues for the United boys who came away 5-1 winners against a good Hampton Park United Sparrows.
Goals from Zac Robinson (two), Ollie Fak, Riley Nankervis and Ashton Borg put the game to bed, but Hampton Park kept fighting until the end.
A great game from both teams, with continued improvement being seen.
Under 10 boys:
United played an away game against Rosebud.
With no bench and the team lacking experience, United nervously took the pitch in what was to be a challenging game.
The defensive line was kept on their toes for the first half, with keeper Ethan Gorton saving plenty to keep the score to 0-4 at halftime.
United played a much better second half and, although tired, pushed on with three attempts at goal.
Rosebud continued to show consistency, scoring three more goals to win 7-0.
It was a difficult loss for the boys. Special mention to Louie Harrison, Luca Pitisano, Sam Wilson and Ethan Gordon for showing great skill and determination.