Cobras Reserves defence too hard to crack

Saturday started with a muchanticipated rematch between the NZI-Cobras Reserves and Cobras D.

The wind swept down from the mountain and buffeted the east-west playing field, making each half very different for the opposing teams.

It was the Ds who began the game with wind at their backs and harassed the Reserves goal throughout the half.

The Reserves defence proved too hard to beat.

Lachlan McHaffie expertly co- ordinated the defenders; Ryan Johnson, Mickae¨l Dernoncourt and Phil Higson.

The customary Ds throughball didn’t work with fierce wind, shots were too high or wide and the Ds failed to capitalise the Reserves mistakes.

The second half had conditions reverse on the players.

The Reverses pounced and almost scored from the kick off.

McHaffie’s switched to a more offensive mindset and he distributed the ball skilfully from the defensive midfield position.

McHaffie would find himself in a prime position at the edge of the box to score for the Reserves.

The Ds tried to counterattack with some success against the stalwart Reserves and the blustery weather but it was to no avail.

The Reverse won the match 1-nil, with Ash Taylor securing a clean sheet.

Next, NZI-Cobras A team played Unicol Development at home.

The wind had a different effect upon the North-South pitch but it was never-the-less energy sapping.

The As had come off two weeks without playing and it had an effect on their match readiness.

The game was marred by a number of late challenges and heavy tackles and frustrations mounted on and off the field.

But, chances were few and far between for the As as they failed to make and take chances.

Unicol scored and a wayward pass at the back saw Unicol score again.

Jordan Tukuitoga managed to score one back for the As but final whistle blew with the As losing 2-1.

The NZI-Te Aroha Women had no game scheduled over Queen’s Birthday weekend.

The Te Aroha Football club farewell Ole Leblack and Anja Anderson.

Both made an impact at the club, are moving back to Europe and will be missed.

NZI Cobras-A play away to Te Awamutu at 2.45pm. NZI CobrasReserves will play Waikato Unicol Black at home, 12.30pm. The Te Aroha Cobras-D squad will NUSC Seniles at Discovery Park, 12:30pm. The Te Aroha Cobras Women will play Wanderers at Porritt Stadium.