Men’s resilience on show in loss
Saturday saw Waipa Aluminum Te Awamutu AFC’s men’s premier team host Ngongotahā Lakes FC in Southern Conference football.
Coming off an impressive draw against Unicol, the home side hoped to secure their first win of the season.
The game started brightly, with captain and in-form striker Dylan Brett finding the back of the net by pouncing on a loose pass and beating the keeper, putting Te Awamutu ahead 1-0.
However, Ngongotahā Lakes took the lead with goals from R. Nicholson and K. Villamor in the 30th and 31st minutes, respectively, carrying that lead into halftime.
Despite the deficit, the home team continued to battle.
Giulio Bernasconi managed to find the net in the 82nd minute after being set up by Nic King-McRae, but it was too late.
While the 4-2 loss wasn’t acceptable, the team’s resilience is something to build on as they look ahead to a tough trip to Taupō next weekend.
Diana Manutai from Property Brokers attended the first team game, expressing her support for the club and its community initiatives.
She mentioned the club’s holiday programme and women’s teams, showing her backing for the men’s team in the Southern Conference with a touch of UpTheRoses spirit.
Over 35
Storyteller Eatery & Bar Te Awamutu AFC Over35s secured a classy win against perennial contenders Ngāruawāhia in their season opener.
This gave them confidence going into Saturday’s game against reigning champions Cambridge, who had never been beaten in the league’s history.
A rigorous pre-season campaign under master coach Jim Grainger prepared the team well for their match against a Cambridge team known for its South American flair.
The game saw intense pressing, slick interplay, and intricate movements culminating in an audacious Blerim Buddla chip over the keeper for Te Awamutu.
Liam Foster’s stunning 47 metre free kick then gave Te Awamutu a deserved lead.
However, injuries and a depleted bench allowed Cambridge to get back into the game, eventually securing two late goals.
Te Awamutu couldn’t find the winning goal despite being close, highlighting a missed opportunity but also fuelling their resolve for the coming battles in the league.
Women
Edmonds Judd Te Awamutu AFC Women’s Division One team played their first home game against Melville on Sunday.
Astrid Joy opened the scoring for Te Awamutu and the defensive setup held firm.
Despite Melville scoring once, Te Awamutu secured a 2-1 victory, with Sara Mallinson earning the BurgerFuel MVP for her defensive efforts.
The Te Awamutu AFC Ladies’ Division Three team travelled to Morrinsville, with goals from Breanna Adam and Audrey Poaneki making a 2-1 halftime lead.
Despite Morrinsville’s comeback, Te Awamutu fought hard, with Breanna Adam scoring a penalty. However, Morrinsville ultimately won 5-3.
Maddie Chisholm was the BurgerFuel MVP and the team now look forward to their next game against Mangakino.