YDS down 3 Kings Elk Hider at George St!

Once again it was a changed squad that arrived at a wet George St to entertain 3 Kings Elk Hider. With some players being away and others  unable to make it at the last minute, we were looking short in numbers, having the bare 11 to take to the field. Fortunately, Michael Coster volunteered to sit on our bench and I changed just in case! 3 Kings, however, were in a worst state, arriving with just 9 players for the kick off.

Once again, AFF had given us a referee, who promptly told Coster and Harrison to lose their 'skins' due to them being the wrong colour for their shirts/shorts. That done, the game kicked off as the rain stopped. Getting into the 9 man Kings team, we were surprisingly lacking in penetration, attempting to get into a rhythm of flowing football, but not achieving it. Then, as the midfield began to take control of the game, we were given a guilt edge chance to score from a lovely run down the right. In came the cross, but Dale was unable to capitalise and hit the ball high from inside the six yard box. Still, with Dale and Shane Mooney having a fairly free run in midfield and Dylan and Adam making some intelligent running, we were stretching Kings. Shortly afterwards, Kings were up to 10 players and this actually appeared to help us out as we controlled the first half. However, although we were controlling the game, we were still missing that spark to set us off. That was, until just before half time when Shane Mooney went on a mazy run across the edge of the Kings penalty area. On hitting the ball, it seemed to be going slow and wide, but crept into the bottom right corner and Waiuku were 1-0 up! Not the best strike but they all count and it took some of the pressure off.

Half time came and we talked about the lack of communication on the field and which had cost us possession a few times in the first half. That done, we started the second half. With the defence solid and giving little away, we were looking comfortable but still wanting that second goal to kill off any comeback from Kings. Up pops Dylan to provide it. All credit to him as he ran his socks off throughout the match and was rewarded when he chased yet another ball down towards the Kings keeper. As the keeper attempted to clear the ball with a thunderous kick, it resulted in it hitting Dylan just below his ribs and nearly knocking him down. However, Dylan wants that leading goal scorer's title and his determination was clear as he not only managed to stay on his feet but then chased the ball as it headed towards the open goal with both the Kings keeper and a defender giving chase. However, Dylan got there first and hammered the ball into the net. 2-0!! This seemed to take the wind out of Kings and it was obvious they were now tiring. We also had problems though, as Scott was brought off after suffering a dead leg from one of his meaty challenges earlier in the game. On came Coster, moving into midfield as Harrison slotted into left back for Scott. Soon afterwards, another flowing move gave Dylan the chance to double his tally and he did with a simple tap in. 3-0! Shortly after that, Adam Moorhouse got himself onto the score sheet with a deserved goal and Waiuku were 4-0 and looking value for money. However, a timely reminder came just before the final whistle about concentration, as a mix up in defence gave the ball away to Kings, who struck a powerful shot past Ryan in goal, ending the scoring at 4-1. Ryan stood no chance with the goal and he was disappointed none the less.

Overall, I think this was the YDS's best performance to date but as always, there is room for improvement. Man of the match was again a hard choice, with Dylan once again a serious contender. However, this week went to Shaun Morris in the defence, who was strong, aggressive and composed throughout the game.

There is no game next week for the YDS, but are next away at Uni Mt Wellington on 30 Apr, KO. 1pm. Thanks as always to the supporters and to Coster for helping us out (and to the 3rds for allowing it!).