Goals galore in junior Raiders clashes

Led by captain Riley Frazer, the local team was put under pressure from the start, with Golden City scoring early in the game. Peaches Starritt and Jack Millar impressed early, defending solidly and using their considerable pace to outrun their opposition.

Despite the Vikings’ best efforts, Golden City continued to make the most of every opportunity, scoring twice more to take a commanding lead at the end of the first half.

The second half saw the momentum shift the Vikings’ way, with forwards Aarav Bhatia and Shewan Silva attacking early, looking for opportunities to score.

Fast moving Sophie Millar was never far from the action and Cameron Peirce was a standout with his strong kicking through the centre.

Jesse Nye and Caden Saunders were also solid in defence, frustrating Golden City when it attempted to move the ball to their scoring end.

The hard-working Enrique Dos Santos was finally rewarded for his efforts, setting up a brilliant goal that was delivered by Silva. Despite the Vikings having control of the ball most of the second half they were unable to capitalise when it counted, with Golden City taking the win 4 -1.

Under-12 Border Raiders vs Strathfieldsaye Colts

Border Raiders met Strathfieldsaye Colts at Jack Eddy Oval on a sunny Saturday. The Raiders started fast and with the coaches asking for them to press high, it quickly resulted in a goal from Matty Maxwell to start proceedings.

The forward duo of Tommy Quirk and Jack Gibson then combined for what was one of the goals of the year, with Gibson crossing a precision ball from the left wing and Quirk making no mistake with the finish.

Strathfieldsaye continued to fight hard, but the defensive unit of Xavier Stewart, Oscar Dawson and Alex Attalh, ensured any potential Colts attack was repelled quickly.

Tommy Quirk added another goal just before half-time after some tough midfield work from Edik Jegan. After half-time the Colts came out strong and surprised the Raiders with a quick goal. The Raiders re-focused to add another goal to their tally.

Jack Dunne completed his goal keeping duties and entered the striker position with immediate effect, setting up Gibson for a fantastic goal.

Daniel Barry kicked his first goal for the season — a great reward for his hard work in the midfield — and the crowd was on its feet.

The hard-running Billy Quirk worked tirelessly throughout the day, ensuring the Raiders stayed on top. The Raiders finished victorious 6 -1.

Under-16 vs Golden City Eaglehawk

Saturday saw the Border Raiders take on Golden City Eaglehawk at Moama. The Border Raiders started slowly, allowing an early goal through.

The defence of Matt Whyte, Aiden Bruffell, Mason Bayley and Charlie Mundie then stood up and controlled the game, thwarting countless attacks.

Blade Bawden in goals stopped any chances that got past the defenders until Golden City received a penalty and scored. Seb Jouault-Thomas received a penalty just before half-time, scoring so the team headed into the break 2-1 down.

Some inspiring words from coach Darryl Brown had the Border Raiders come out firing in the second half. Asha Davies, Brayden Hull, Jye Dos Santos and Lottie Pickles dominated possession through the midfield, leading Seb to score a hat trick.

The Border Raiders led 3-2 with 20 minutes to go. Golden City then fought back hard, breaking through the defence twice to get ahead 4-3 with just minutes remaining.

A defensive master class led to a quick counter-attack and Jye scored to level the game at 4-4 just before the final whistle. This was an outstanding effort by the team, especially as they only had 10 players available for the game.

Any new or interested players are always welcome. Training is held from 5:30pm at Jack Eddy Oval on Thursdays.

– All reports contributed