NORTHERN STORM - MATCH REPORTS

Senior Mens

Round 16 – against Orara

First Grade – report by Colin Scully

Prior to the commencement of the match, the coaching staff stressed the importance of this match in particular the need to dominate the match from the opening whistle and not to take this match for granted.

There was no doubt that Orara wanted to win this match on their home ground – they came out firing. In fact they scored the only goal of the first half – again it was a long ball over the defenders heads and then a lob over the keeper’s head – Mitch was livid with himself and this did upset his game. To his credit Mitch did save a number of potential scoring opportunities, in particular one in the second half which was a scramble in the box.

At half time the coaching staff told the lads to keep their composure as we did miss at least four goals in the first half. We knew the Orara lads would weaken in the latter half of the game and they did but our lads had to stop playing in 70% of the park. We told them to move up quickly and squeeze them into their half and play the short ball. This worked very well and there were some excellent passages of play. To say that Dan Keam was excited after scoring in the 5^th minute was an understatement (his 2^nd goal of the season) – good on you Dan. Storm had to wait another 20 minutes before Brendon Myers clinically netted and he too was over the moon in excitement.

A good effort lads. Special thanks to our Reserve Grade lads - Enoch Marc, Daniel Anyijong, Scott Tarlinton and Jordan Andrews for benching for us – most appreciated.

It must be said that there were some extraordinary endurance levels on display today with the likes of Jamie Kennedy, Mykel Watson and Matt Latham running their legs ragged. But it was Dan Keam who took out the Man of the Match award – well done Dan.

Northern Storm 2 Orara 1

Our next match is Saturday, 2^nd August - Storm play Sawtell at Toormina. Reserve Grade kicks off at 3pm and First Grade at 5pm

Only 2 games remaining so PLEASE come along and support the lads.

Womens Reserves

Round 16

26/7 vs Orara

3 – 3 draw

This was a must win game for us to be guaranteed a place in the top 4. Against the low placed Orara side we were fairly confident and went in with an attacking line up.

The game started really well and we played with plenty of control and passing to dominate the first 20 minutes. Pretty soon we were up 2-0 with some good work up front from Aimee & Bronte. However, Orara came back strongly and were really contesting the ball in midfield, but we kept holding them at the back with good defence.

A goal to Orara from an excellent corner saw us 2-1 at half time, which was really not a reflection of the dominance we had in the game.

The 2^nd half continued along the same lines, we actually slipped to 3-2 down after 2 more goals from corners. There was very little we could have done to stop these, and we stuck with our game plan to continually fire shots on the Orara goal. We really pushed forward in attack now with only 3 at the back and finally the equaliser came with 10 minutes to go. The shot count kept ticking up for us but we simply could not get the goal we needed and finished 3-3.   

This was a really good effort and on another day with some luck could easily have seen us win by several goals. 2 of the Orara corners were simply brilliant and extremely difficult to stop and they really did not threaten our goal except from the corner spot

Player of the match was Aimee, we will miss your experience and control up front, good luck in the USA!

Bronte, Shauna & Liana all had really good games as well

Mike Lloyd

Coach

Match Report Men’s Reserve Grade

Northern Storm vs. Orara Round 16

Well the lads have secured a spot in the semi finals with a 2 to 1 win over Orara. Not the best game they have played this year but a win is a win. The game was a tough game and know goals were scored in the first half. The defence from both teams was very strong not making it easy for any of the forwards to score. It wasn’t until ten minutes into the second half when Orara lobbed a ball over our keepers head putting them ahead. Ten minutes later a goal from Cameron Jones cleaning up in the box levelled the score. Our guys need to understand this is a team sport.

 There were a number of times throughout the game where we could have scored but we held onto the ball for far too long. Lads we have to stop the selfish play if we are going to win in the semis’ I am sure this will be spoken about at training. We seemed to be going know where in the game but with around 13 minutes to go Jade Porter found the net putting us ahead for the first time in the game.

Our man of the match this week goes to Scott Tarlinton for a solid game against his old club well done mate. Thanks this week to Collin Scully and Jade Porter for helping out while the coach Matt Bennett was away. To all the storm supporters please come and support the guys over the next few weeks having you at our games helps lift the lads . One thing I can say is the lads are very hungry to win this competition so come along to the games. YIP YAH!

Reported by Trevor Jones.                                         

Womens Reserves

Round 19

22/7 vs Boambee

4 – 4 draw

Having slipped back to 5^th on the ladder we had a big assignment here against the top placed Boambee side. A loss would mean almost no chance of making the finals. Fortunately we had all our players back on deck for this one and a serious plan with a revised structure. The girls were also really keen to put their stamp on a Boambee team that had beaten us 3-0 and 6-0 previously, and should we finish 4^th are likely to meet in the finals

We started like a house on fire, with really strong defence combined with excellent long clearances and some great long passing moves. Before we knew it 2 quality goals saw us up 2-0.  Kodie & Aimee were combining perfectly up front. The defensive plan was working and we had Boambee on the ropes. This was the best half of football we have played all year and we knew the game was ours if we could keep going. The 2^nd half began like the 1^st, and soon enough we had another great goal from a through ball and a good finish from Pariss. At 3-0 we could not afford to relax as Boambee have the luxury of a 1^st division side at the top of the table, and sure enough they began to make subs and fight back. After a scrappy goal we went to 3-1 and the pressure was on, but we responded with yet another goal to go 4-1.

With 20 minutes to go Boambee pulled out all the stops, bringing on 2 fresh wingers and their keeper (a quality 1^st div player) coming out of goals and into striker. We began to crack under the pressure and let in 2 more goals quickly to go to 4-3. Then with 5 minutes to go Boambee got an equaliser – 4 all. I have to say 2 of their goals were quality but the other 2 were quite soft and both rolled in off a post. 

We finished the game strongly and with some luck could have had 1 or 2 more goals and kept Boambee to 2. Although we didn’t get the win this was an excellent effort as we scored 4 goals against a team that had only let in 9 goals all season prior to this game!

Player of the match was….. EVERYONE! You all played your hearts out. In particular Ainsley had a great game filling in at stopper and all our wingers worked really hard on the defensive formation. The best thing about this game is that we will learn from it and have sent Boambee a strong message for when we meet them in the finals

Mike Lloyd

Coach

NORTHERN STORM - MATCH REPORTS

Senior Mens

Round 15 – against Boambee

First Grade – report by Colin Scully

I couldn’t make the first round game when Boambee beat us 5-3 on their home ground but I just couldn’t imagine that they would beat us on our home turf in the second round. To say that everyone was shocked with the result is an understatement. Nothing went our way including the refereeing decisions.

Regardless of being down 2 nil at half time the players and coaching staff were of the belief that Storm played the better game in the first half and were confident of bouncing back. A chance to convert a penalty in the early moments of the second half was missed. The lads seemed to lose momentum and Storm’s formation was lacking as players appeared to take it upon themselves to play “catch up” footy which meant the gaps opened up time and time again. Yes we were missing players through injury and suspension and some were endeavouring to recover from the flu. This simply highlights the need for depth of talent.

The ladder really tells the story for this season - in particular the “for and against” tally of minus 1 – we have been unable to score many goals and have conceded far too many goals – simple as that lads.

I am also amazed at the continuous stop start game – free kicks galore – Boambee finished with 5 yellow cards and Storm 1 yellow and a red. This is ridiculous.

Three games remain lads and anything can happen. Good teams have lost games all season when they have been expected to win. Let’s really dig deep and enjoy our football.

Northern Storm 0  Boambee 3

Man of the Match was awarded to Jarrad Swan for a tireless performance.

Our next match is against Orara at Orara on Saturday 26^th July – Reserve Grade kicks off at 3pm and First Grade at 5pm – bring your winter clothes – you will need them. See you there.

Match Report Round 15 Men’s Reserve Grade Northern Storm vs. Boambee

A tough game today at the Cove for our boys with cold howling winds. The lads new it would be a close game and were ready for the action. The first half we played with the wind in our faces making it difficult to keep the ball forward but in the 4^th minute of the half a cross from the winger Paul Malith had Salvador and Jade scramble. Jade Porter got a foot on the ball and scored his first goal for the year well done Jade. Boambee kept up their attack but the storm held them out with some great defence. The Storm would counter attack only to be repelled by the Boambee defence what a great tussle the first half was.

In the second half the game was much the same but the Storm seemed to lose a bit of structure in the mid field making it difficult to go on the attack and in the 15^th minute a cracker of a goal from Boambee number 16 Hank Bus levelled the score after a Laps in concentration from the Storm defence following an interchange. I believe this game was just what the Storm needed they showed today they can play a full 90 minutes and keep attacking till the final whistle.

This is the true grit we will need to take into the finals a never give up attitude the lads showed today they have got it. Man of the match today is David Poverello well done Dave. Special thanks this week to young Cooper Poverello for attending the game 1 week after being born he is our number one supporter a true stormer thanks Dave and Amy. We would also like to thank Widdow and his wife Linda for the help with the bbq and clean up at the end of the day. Well done to Boambee for a great 1 all draw see you in the finals.

Report by Trevor Jones.

U/9 HURRICANES ROUND 14  –V-  THE WOOPI SHARKS.

WOW, what an entertaining game kids.  One of the best games seen this year and a great tussle.  The Hurricanes showed some good open play early, I think as a result of some intense drills during the week about getting into space paid off.  Even though there was a strong wind against us in the first half the team kept control and didn’t allow the Sharks to get in front.  The backs demonstrated some real class and Sam was great in Goals.  The second half was much the same which saw both teams score a few goals.  In the end it was an even affair and a close contest.  I think the Hurricanes had more opportunities overall but it was one of those days where the bounce of the ball didn’t go our way. Nonetheless both teams did very well and all the parents were getting involved cheering along.  It is always fun to play the Sharks as they are also a good team and a supportive bunch of parents.

A special mention this week goes to Fletcher for strong defence and passing and to Charlie for a great all round effort.

Coach Scott, even though a bit grumpy today, was very pleased with the performance and the way the team have been listening at training.

Thanks from the Hurricanes Match Reporter.

PS HAPPY BIRTHDAY Match Reporter from all the Hurricane parents and players.

Junior Presentation Day

Saturday 6^th September

Moonee Tavern

10am til 3pm (time slots to be confirmed later for each age group)

 

Senior Presentation Night

Saturday 6^th September

Plantation Hotel

5:30pm – 9:30pm

 

Sunday 20^th July – Men’s games at Korora

We take on Boambee with our Reserves side pushing for a top of the table finish, and our Premier League team looking to cement a spot in the top 4. Please come along and support your club, it will be a great day out with quality football , BBQ & full canteen facilities

NORTHERN STORM - MATCH REPORTS

Senior Mens

Round 14 – against Coffs Tigers

First Grade – report by Colin Scully

Well it doesn’t get any easier lads. This was a very tough and physical match handicapped by the officials. A very stop-start match and far too much time arguing with the officials which is a waste of time.

Having been denied a goal in the 4^th minute of the first half by Dan Keam the Storm lads “lost it”. Storm had to wait until the 20^th minute of the second half before finally getting the goal they deserved – scored by Grant Scully.

The good points are that when we did play the ball along the ground and kept possession we were all over the opposition but not enough of this was on display today. The running off the ball and effort put in by Dan Keam, Brendon Myers, Matt Latham and Michael Turner was emormous.

The sad point was the sending off of Brendon Myers – what can be said about that the officials – nothing, absolutely nothing. This is certainly not fair officiating. Things like this can destroy a footballers dreams.

Northern Storm 1 Coffs Tigers 0

Man of the Match was Michael Turner who played his heart out today.

Our next match is at HOME  on Sunday, 20^th July - Storm play Boambee at The Cove, Korora. Reserve Grade kicks off at 12pm and First Grade at 2pm.

For First Grade this match could well decide which team goes through to the semis. It will be a cracker of a match so PLEASE come along and support the lads as they fight to attain a spot in the semis.

 

 

Match report round 14 men’s reserve grade Northern storm vs. Coffs Tigers.

The Storm played some great football our attack on the right side was terrific and in the second half we switched to the left catching the tigers by surprise with a great game from Salvador Wamara on the wing. John Paul playing left back had good control and was feeding the ball down the left flank with ease. The score should have been a lot closer however a brilliant goal keeper’s game from Adrian Keegan denied the tigers at least 3 goals Adrian gets the man of the match today well done mate. For the Tigers you guys played a good game and were a bit unlucky at times keep your heads up I am sure you will make it a lot harder next time we play.

 To all the Storm players well done boys. We still need to work on team spirit and stop the arguing with each other. Instead of criticising our own players look at yourselves first. There isn’t a player in our team who is perfect everyone makes mistakes it’s how we deal with it that counts. And arguing is not the way we should be patting players on the back and encouraging them to be better players. Guys we are for weeks away from the semi’s this nonsense needs to stop. Let’s put the happenings at the end of the last game behind us and concentrate on our main goal of being the grand final winners for the year 2014.

U/9 HURRICANES ROUND 12  –V-  THE BLIZZARDS.

We were not let down once again with the clash of the big guns from the U/9’s. The Hurricanes started well and took control of the game with some great open play.  There were heaps of one-twos and long passing by the Hurricanes which dominated the game.  That didn’t last long as the Blizzards fought back and the competitiveness was very evident between both teams.  In the end the Blizzards came out a little in front but boy was it a great game.  Once again the team played hard but respected each other and their friendships.

A special mention this week goes to Knox for a brilliant goal keeping display and to his sister Jazz for a great overall effort.   The kids also commented that it was good to have the regular oranges back after a couple of weeks without them..........!

Coach Scott was pleased with the way both teams played and didn’t see too much wrong anywhere in the performance.   

Thanks from the Hurricanes Match Reporter.

 

NORTHERN STORM - MATCH REPORTS

Senior Mens

Round 13 – against Maclean

First Grade – report by Colin Scully

The first half was very ordinary from both sides apart from 2 fantastic saves by Mitch Weeden who backed it up with another top save in the second half.

The only goal of the game was scored in the 24^th minute of the second half by Jamie Kennedy.

We need to keep the ball on the deck lads. Far too much high ball. Not enough retention of the ball and our passing game needs to improve heaps. On a number of occasions players were kicking the ball without even looking to where they were kicking the ball or to whom.

Having said that, there were some highlights of the game. None better than the through ball to Jamie Kennedy and his cross to Dan Keam who unfortunately was unable to find the back of the net.

We must treat every game from now on as a Grand Final lads – we need to up the intensity but at the same time we must “relax on the ball” and let the ball do the work. Possession is the key as is patience. Take the time to “hold” the ball and find our player’s feet and we will win more games.

Northern Storm 1 Maclean 0

Man of the Match was Mitch Weeden – well done Mitch.

Our next game is Saturday 12^th July - Storm play Coffs Tigers at Polwarth Drive.

See you there.

 

 

5/7 vs Coffs United

We began the game strongly, creating plenty of good chances up front and putting a lot of pressure on the United defence, with Achol on the left and Liana up front working in well. However, as has been the case many times this year, our opponents were the first to score, against the run of play. United got one up with a good finish after some loose marking on a corner. The game evened out a little after that, and after a mixup at the back we let another goal in to go 2-0 down. Just before half time Achol won a penalty after being cut down in the box. Kodie stepped up to take the shot, and finished it off at the 2^nd attempt. 2-1 at half time and it was clear the way we were playing we had plenty of goals in us if we continued with our game plan.

We dominated the 2^nd half, with Jess & Monique at the back of midfield constantly shutting down United and our attack running all over the Lionesses backs. Aimee & Kodie were combining really well, with Holly & Achol making great runs out wide. Kodie finished off 2 great through balls to get us up 3-2, and then scored a great individual goal for 4-2.

United then got one back as we had a couple of injured players on the bench and were struggling for fresh legs in defence. The Storm didn’t panic though and continued to dominate the attack, until the final goal came with 10 minutes remaining. A fantastic and deserved 5-3 win. Many thanks to our super subs for helping out, particularly Kodie who finished with all 5 goals. Also a great effort from our match officials who really enforced the rules and let us play football.

Player of the match was Achol with a brilliant effort in her first run on the left wing, and also special mention to Ainsley who slotted into the attacking midfield role very well.

Mike Lloyd

Northern Storm vs. Maclean

Well the big push for the finals started today. The storm needed a win and that’s what we got today beating Maclean 2 goals to nil. The game was played at a furious pace with both teams playing great football a penalty in the 16th minute by Maclean in there box seen Daniel Anyjong score the Storms first goal. The first half ended with a win up for grabs for both teams.

Man of the match we have two this week firstly Jayden Kachel  he copped a hard hit in the head mid way through the game but came back and played a great game in the backs a position he doesn’t normally play. And not to forget Jade Porter his game and organising the mid field has been fantastic it has made a huge difference to our team. Thanks this week to Wendy and Robyn in the canteen and Craig for line marking.

Remember Lads Winners Are Grinners