Round 7
With heavy rain in the South West, and a lazy 100mls of rain falling in Margs from Thursday, it was a cold, wet and muddy affair for most of our teams. Our pitches were the worst hit, but luckily were deemed playable. Hopefully we get some sunshine this week to dry things out for this weeks game’s!
U7 Falcons
On a very cold, wet and windy day the Falcons headed to Busso to take on GMAS Giants. The pitch was in perfect condition allowing both sides to run freely and score great goals. The team kept running despite umbrellas and jackets flying over the pitch as we were all reminded what a down south winters day is like! Every player deserved player of the day today but special shout out to Estelle and Finn.
U7 Ninja’s
Rain, Resilience & Rapid Goals – Ninjas vs Busselton Recap
Anticipation buzzed around game day planning early this morning as a severe weather warning swept across the southwest coast. But the stormy skies and thick rain were no match for the determined Ninjas, who travelled through it all to face off against their Busselton opponents.
Despite the weather, the pitch was in exceptional condition—slick but solid—and we had just the right number of players, including one sub, to kick off a fun and action-packed morning of soccer.
Captains Mack and Leo F had the honours, leading their sides with energy and focus. Busselton came out with a strong defensive game, putting real pressure on the Ninjas throughout the first half. But that didn’t hold our crew back. Goals came flying in from Mack, Eli, Vinnie, and others boosting team confidence and opening the field for everyone to shine.
The game wasn’t without its bumps—literally. Oli copped the biggest smack to the face with the ball but showed huge bravery, staying committed and carrying on. Mack also took a hard hit to the nose. No blood, just a brief pause—and both boys were right back into the action.
Henry’s defensive game continues to impress—week by week, he’s becoming a wall no one can get past. Vinnie was exceptional, setting things up perfectly for our newer teammates, offering support and encouragement all game long.
Players of the Day - Eli earned the honour for his consistent efforts all season, along with his humble and smart approach to the game. And Mack stood out to both coaches—not just for his gameplay, but for his noticeable attitude shift and major improvement on the field. It was great to see him stepping up and returning to his sharp skill set from last season.
While spirits were high and affirmations were flowing, both coaches pointed out one area to improve: ball accuracy. With a bit of fine-tuning, this team is ready to level up again.
We’re pumped for Wednesday’s training session—slippery surfaces, rapid drills, and a laser focus on accuracy. Let’s bring the energy and keep the momentum rolling!
Thanks for watching – Go Ninjas! ⚽🌧️🔥
U8 Messi Kids
On a wet and windy day, Messi kids played Dunsborough warriors in a hard fought muddy affair. Some great persistence in very trying conditions saw Margaret River triumph. Player of the day went to Quinn who scored a couple of goals. A special thanks to Trey who refereed and encouraged both teams in the rain.
U9 Legends XI
The wet conditions on game day didn’t stop a great match from unfolding, with both teams putting in an amazing effort despite the rain and slippery field.
Moose opened the scoring early, slotting in the first goal and giving the team a strong start. The early lead set the tone for a competitive and evenly matched game. Both sides worked hard in the tough conditions, keeping it tight throughout with some strong defence and midfield battles.
Hutch played a key role in attack, scoring two impressive goals and bringing the game back to 3–3. His efforts gave the team a real lift and kept the pressure on right to the final whistle.
George was awarded Player of the Day for his consistent effort across the field. He worked hard applying practice drills, had great game awareness and compassion for fellow players.
Overall, it was a solid team performance in difficult conditions. Everyone dug deep and played their part, and the match finished in a well-deserved draw
Player of the Day went to George for applying practice drills to the game, great game awareness and compassion for fellow players
U9 Mavericks
Battling the elements was all part of the fun for the match between MUSC Panthers and FMR Mavericks at Churchill Park on Saturday. Rain certainly didn’t hamper proceedings and the Under 9s looked like they were having a lot of fun! Otis Clifford earned himself POD and is excited to get to Scoops to use his voucher.
U10 Strikers
The rain held off for most the match as the Strikers went up against the BCFC Possums at Churchill Park. The Strikers had a new game plan going into this match and from the first whistle, it was like watching a much more senior team despite having no subs. They were all spreading out and moving the ball around the pitch beautifully. In the 2nd half of the match, the team work and passes from the Strikers put continual pressure on the oppositions defence and goals resulting in scoring 3 amazing team-effort goals. At the end of the match, Coach Dane, said the team played and worked so well together that everyone deserved the player of the match.
U10 Dragons
This week the Dragons travelled to Busselton to play the GMAS Braves. It was a cold, wet and wild Saturday morning of football - the joy of winter sport! After a challenging match last week, the Dragons came back today with a renewed sense of focus and their performance was much more like the Dragons we have come to know.
The first half was off to a quick start with the Dragons hitting the back of the net early on. Our midfield worked tirelessly to control the pace, linking up well with both defence and attack. The Braves tried to keep pace and had a few shots on goal but every one of them was skilfully saved by the keeper.
In the second half, the Dragons continued to play tactically and were able to spot gaps in the Brave’s defence and used that to their advantage. We saw some very impressive runs and crosses, and nearly scored from a corner kick!
It was a fun match, with the Dragons seeing how much their gameplay improves when they communicate and work cohesively as a team. Our player of the day was Leighton, who kept a clean sheet in goals in the first half and then came out on fresh legs in the latter half of the game and scored a few goals and all with a smile on his face. Thanks to Yahava for the generous gift.
U10 Serpents
The Serpents faced off against fellow Margaret River side the Wasps in torrential rain that turned the pitch into a treacherous slip-and-slide battleground, but despite the challenging conditions, the Serpents showed admirable resilience and held their own against their local rivals. Thiago stepped up, volunteering to take the goalkeeper's gloves for the first half and producing a string of crucial saves, while Sasha found her stride as the match progressed, maintaining composure throughout the game. Both players' outstanding contributions were recognised with joint Player of the Day vouchers from Two Cracks Coffee. Keep it up Serpents!
U11 Roos
The boots were muddy before kick off! A wet and wild game this week. The Roos played at home against the DTFC Stingrays. The ground was muddy but everyone did their best in the cold conditions. The best advice to the players…. If you want to keep warm - run! A great game the Roos kept up a great defence in the second half. Thanks to Bianca for the half time oranges and also Di, Bianca, Pat and young Betty for lending a hand in the canteen! Player or the day was Annabelle congratulations and a nice voucher for the club canteen!
U11 Storm
U11 Storm proudly wore their yellow shirts onto the muddy soccer pitch this week with a wet and windy game against Capel Wolves. Storm are showing their training is paying off with mastering the simple stuff and finishing the game in style. Our POD was Sunny Nilsson-Linne for doing a great job in the middle.
U12 Breakers
The Breakers scored early in a tight match against the DTSC Fury. The Fury came back in the second half to seize the win. Isla is back in the game after a year off to take out POD along with Will who impressed with accurate passes under pressure. Thanks to Two Cracks Coffee Cowaramup and Sons of Naples for the vouchers.
U12 Stars
A tough and well fought game against the well drilled BCFC Blades, despite the torrential rain and strong winds.
The Stars tried their best and showed great team work even when the score was against them, they kept going and showed a great fighting spirit. Typified by Freddy Dargue who shone in goal, making some outstanding saves. He will enjoy a treat from Two Cracks Cafe in Cowaramup.
U14 Warriors
It was a very cold and wet match today against the Vasse Cobras and it took the Warriors a little while to warm up and get into it. The Cobras scored 3 goals early in the first half and looked to be running away with it. The Warriors came back fighting though with a beautiful play down the pitch from Declan to Angus who got around the defenders and scored from the wing making the half time score 3-1.
The second half the Warriors came out strong. They maintained possession for the majority of the half, keeping the ball up their attacking end with lots of shots on goal. There was a foul in the box that led to a missed penalty early in the half. Later there was another foul in the box and Declan put the penalty away easily in the bottom left corner. In the end, the Cobras defence proved too strong and they kept the final score to 3-2. Angus was named Player of the Day for his contribution to the match.
U15 Tigers
In freezing cold and wet conditions, the Tigers took on the strong GBFC Seasiders in what turned out to be a fast-paced and fiery match. GBFC started off with intensity, scoring three early goals before Alex broke through for the Tigers to get them on the board.
Despite the rough weather, both teams showed determination. The Tigers kept pressing forward and created multiple chances, but GBFC’s keeper, Ewen, was rock-solid, denying shot after shot. Millie gave Tigers fans something to cheer about with a brilliant goal that snuck behind the keeper, bringing the score to 2-6.
The game was physical, with tensions running high, resulting in two penalties. Luca gave the Tigers their third goal with a stunning strike over the keeper’s head. At the other end, Riley was nothing short of heroic, diving and blocking shots all match long. He showed courage and commitment, putting his body on the line and making save after save.
Although the Tigers went down 7-3, they played with heart and teamwork. Riley was deservedly named Player of the Day for his outstanding goalkeeping under pressure. A tough result, but a performance full of grit and spirit from the Tigers. Riley Sanderson with a Sons of Naples voucher.
YL Blaze
We left the dark clouds behind us to head to Buss, where the sun was out. Unfortunately that didn’t last long, so this match report is bought to you from the car!!
We had a couple of shots early on but saved by the Seasiders keeper. Then a great passage of play gave us our first goal.
Seasiders slipped round our defences to get a shot off. Henry had a great dive, but the ball went just past his fingertips to equalise the score. Seasiders soon scored again.
Another great show of teamwork gave Sonny a shot, but it was just wide and over.
Scarlett’s tackle game was strong with some great sliding tackles throughout the game.
A corner in our defence goals. Header by Sid gave Kade great run up the pitch but not able to convert. Digby took a long shot, but saved by keeper. Scarlett had another great tackle in the box. We had another shot, but went just wide. A Sonny-Poom combo came close, but not close enough.
Second half
2 more of our shots saved. William solid in defence. Digby and Charlie chasing down the ball. Sonny making runs and creating opportunities. Kai moving the ball around well. Then a long high bomb went over Henry’s head to give them another goal.
With 15 mins to go, we finally got our second in the net. A few minutes later we got our third, but it wasn’t enough and the clock ran out giving the Seasiders the win.
Poom got “Tackle of the Day” and Scarlett awarded Player of the Day for her awesome form, great tackles and performing at her peak.
YL Wanderers
A wet one for sure and Busselton brought their Thunder!
The game had to be moved to accommodate the weather, so a slippery game was always on the cards. It didn’t dampen the Wanderers’ spirits though, Ryder Gillick receiving a through ball soon after the game started. While he sprayed that one, it gave the message of things to come and hopefully an end to the rain puns! Sure enough, a few minutes later, Saxon Tromp slotted one with precision from a similar ball. 1-0
Saxon and the rest of the midfield trio,T aj Prendergast and Oliver Lawrey, didn’t take long to dominate the centre of the park. Taj particularly, creating a lot of time, through change in direction.
Jay Grant seems to have a huge amount of space out wide in the first half, showing great positional responsibility and patience.
Ryder started to see more opportunities, gaining in confidence to take players on - happy to fire a shot with his left club, but not quite landing yet…
Finally, Jay gets a run, links with Ryder, a little breakdown, then back in control, out to Stirling Wolfe-Kermode (Stirlo) and back to Ryder, but a spinning ball disrupts the finish. Then, there goes a rocket from Sax at 30m out. Didn’t miss by much. Momentum is building…
Some very nice midfield interplay, holding possession, then as it gets messy when the ball is sent further up, Saxon takes his opportunity. 2-0
The FMR backline starts taking a more active role in the possession game, looking very comfortable with the ball at their feet and drawing the Busso team out from their camp.
Despite the goals, there remains opportunity to improve accuracy in the final third. That said, Busso are defending well, in large numbers, so perhaps more that the Wanderers are struggling to adapt to their 5:4:1 formation. No shortage of shots, but they just look rushed.
Busso’s #7 sets off on a great run down the left of centre, but Noah Churchill treats him to some perfect defensive technique, slowing the play down until the cavalry arrived.
As play moves back up the other end again, Ryder sprays another from near the penalty spot, but soon after is treated to some quick ball work through the middle to Stirlo, equally quick touch to Ryder providing time for a nice finish. 3-0
He almost followed it with another soon after, an excellent ball across the 6yd box from Zane Smith, but timing was just a touch out.
———Half time——-
Several interplays from FMR turning to little, but Busso’s first opportunity in the second half was quality, creating mayhem in the FMR backline, a nice turn and shot sending Lucas into a dive. It didn’t miss by much!
Ollie gets a couple of Corner Kicks, both aided by the wind this time. The second creates an opportunity for Reef Lange to slot quickly and cleanly once the ball went to ground. 4-0
As the heavens drop and Kris Gillick is seen cowering in the crowd under his umbrella, a fantastic phase of play from Lucas in goal, through Cohen in the back, Ollie in the midfield, delayed the pass for Taj, Ryder and Jay to receive through the middle. Ryder grabs it with a first time finish. Sic goal! 5-0
There was another end to end sequence a little while after. No goal this time, but the boys are certainly enjoying their space by moving the ball quickly and accurately now.
Busso attacking with overloads (4v3, 5v4), but closed down relatively easily given the potential. FMR defensive line looking extremely confident and composed.
Running on to a ball in the centre of the park, Sax delivers the ball to Jay on a platter. Jay shows worthy respect of the ball which was given and finishes quickly. 6-0
Stirlo takes a Corner, uses the wind and comes very close, hitting the crossbar and spitting out to Saxon, who nails the Saxtrick! 7-0
Taj weaving in and out like a crochet blanket is brought down just outside the 18yd box. Taj and Sax line up to take it. Saxon shapes the left, running in, but fakes as Taj also runs in and hits a rocket with his Right! 8-0
Sax with a pinpoint ball through to Ryder’s shot, which is bumped well by the GK, but Xavier Braithwaite has made his way up the pitch on the counterattack to finish cleanly. 9-0
The boys are having fun, despite the weather. Lucas makes his way up from GK for a corner, timing his run, but it’s out of reach - the ball continues through as Cohen turns and throws a Bicycle - what a Goal!! 10-0
One of the final plays breaks down, Zane looks up as he enters the box. Nothing on, so he seizes the opportunity and just sends it! 11-0
POD awards recipient was our defending backline, and all received recognition. Xavier, Noah and Cohan. Congratulations. That’s the game. Time to get warm and dry!