1st X1 Match Report

DUFF ROSE BOWL FINAL

FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE (2) v WAITARA (5)


WAITARA IN COMFORTABLE CUP FINAL SUCCESS

By ROBIN MARTIN - Taranaki Daily News | Monday, 15 September 2008


A classy hat-trick from John Fletcher guided Waitara to a comfortable 5-2 victory in soccer's Duff Rosebowl final against Francis Douglas Memorial College at the Merrilands Domain in New Plymouth on Saturday.

The veteran marksman's first strike on 36 minutes broke the deadlock after Waitara had failed to make the most of its early dominance.

Dead-ball specialist Malcolm Bourgoise found Fletcher unmarked in the box with a pinpoint free kick after the striker had checked his run. He placed his header back across the goal giving the stranded Francis Douglas keeper no chance.

The college side, which had started tentatively and was perhaps lucky not to have conceded earlier, sparked into life after going behind.

Tomas Mosquera got free on the right and his mishit shot was cleared scrappily at the back post as his strike partners stood poised to pounce.

Francis Douglas player-coach Ian McGrath also hit a series of threatening crosses after his side won a succession of free kicks, but Waitara weathered the storm and went to the break with its 1-0 advantage intact.

Already premier league champion, Waitara etched its name on the Rosebowl trophy after the interval with a double strike, which effectively ended the contest.

On 52 minutes Bourgoise, playing for the first time after a lengthy injury break, was again the provider and Fletcher the finisher. This time Bourgoise's free kick found the striker at the back post and he rose amid a pack of bodies to score with his head.

Just three minutes later, Josh Herlihy smashed home a half-volley, after the school side again failed to clear a Bourgoise cross.

In what had already been an entertaining match, it always looked likely there would be more goals, and Fletcher completed his hat-trick before the schoolboys got in on the act.

Andrew Crowe got Francis Douglas on the scoresheet in the 66th minute, much to the joy of its vocal supporters, when he shot under Waitara keeper Ocko Martens.

The school side rallied briefly before Jason Osborne scored from close range to make it 5-1 in Waitara's favour and end any hopes of an improbable comeback. To its credit, Francis Douglas never let up and its midfield enforcer Dom Squatriti was able to notch another late consolation goal.

For Waitara, securing the Duff Rosebowl and a second successive league title could mark the end of an era with several of its senior players expected to end their first team careers - that is if the prospect of a three-peat doesn't get the better of them.

HAWERA D won Soccer Taranaki's Nimmo Cup, beating New Plymouth side Peringa 2-1 in a tight game in the men's senior soccer final at New Plymouth's Merrilands Domain on Saturday. Grant White opened the scoring for Hawera D, with Kieran O'Neil equalising for Peringa just before the halftime break. Brant McDonald won it for Hawera D with a penalty goal late in the match.

1st X1 Match Report

NZSSFA National Tournament Week 2008 - Napier

11TH PLACE IN NZ AND GOLDEN BOOT FOR MOSQUERA!!

FDMC enjoyed a fantastic week of football and their most successful year yet to finish 11th in NZ and become the second highest ranked college team in the Central Federation behind Napier Boys. FDMC were inspired in new surroundings as they battled away with the top 32 teams in NZ at the highest ranking competition in the NZSSFA calender.

FDMC navigated their way through a tough Pool Group with a 1-1 draw against Wellington based, Tawa College, a 2-1 win against Shirley Boys High School and a convincing 3-0 win against Western Heights from Roturoa. Seven points was enough to finish first and progress into the knock out rounds playing for positions 24 to 9th.

Two games in one day on Wednesday, resulted in a very tense 2-2 draw against Rangitoto College from Auckland's North Shore, which FDMC bravely won 4-3 on a penalty shoot and progress into the Top 16 and a superb 2-1 win against Kings College (Auckland) in the afternoon catapulted them into the Top 12, playing for positions 12 to 9th.

In the semi final game against St Peters (Auckland), FDMC struggled to contain a very talented St Peters side and in a cagey first half squandered a number of chances to take the lead. Right on the stroke of half time, one mistake cost FDMC dearly and the team went into half time 1-0 down. A spirited second half performance was undone in a moment of controversy when the referee awarded a penalty for a dubious incident. They duly scored and played well to keep posession and frustrate a tired FDMC side who were lacking in ideas.

On Friday, FDMC played out the 11th and 12th place play off against St Pauls, Hamilton and edged a dour game 4-3 in the pouring rain. Goals from Morgan HALL, Aarron HUESSER and two from Tomas MOSQUERA secured a valuable win.

Tomas MOSQUERA scored a total of 8 goals and landed the Tournament Golden Boot to put the icing on the cake and round off a great week of football.

1st X1 Match Report

DUFF ROSE BOWL SEMI FINAL

FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE (3) V HAWERA (1)

FDMC STORM INTO THE DUFF ROSE BOWL FINALS!!

FDMC put in a first class performance to blast into the finals and set up a fairytale final against League Champions, Waitara. Three first half goals by Shane GARNER, Tomas MOSQUERA and Morgan HALL sealed the win and fired the team into history.

In a tense game against a very strong Hawera team, FDMC took an early lead courtesy of a sweeping move from right to left, finished with a sweet strike on the run by Shane GARNER. Hawera immediately hit back with a quality goal of their own to make it 1-1 but FDMC responded with a superb goal direct from the restart, Tomas MOSQUERA turning in a goal from close range to finish off a neat passing move down the right hand side. The swift response rocked the visitors and visibly took the wind out of their sails - from the ecstasy of scoring an equaliser to the low of conceding a quick second goal, FDMC took control again.

As the first half came to a close, FDMC had more territory and posession which they converted into a third goal, scored by Morgan HALL, who once again showed his class and calm manner in front of goal. At 3-1 going in at half time, there was still much to play for but a controlled and disciplined performance kept Hawera at bay and only restricting them to a few half chances.

As the game came to a close, FDMC had further chances to extend their lead but they failed to convert leaving them comfortably in control and through to the Duff Rose Bowl Final for the first time ever.

1st X1 Match Report

DUFF ROSE BOWL QUARTER FINAL

FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE (3) v Woodleigh (2)

FDMC SURVIVE A FRIGHT AS THEY EDGE A DOUR ENCOUNTER!!

FDMC won their quarter final match against a spirited Woodleigh who battled hard to frustrate the home team and when they scored a late headed goal to make it 3-2 they had everyone on their edge of their seat.

FDMC looked flat from the start, unable to display their normal high level of energy or fast flowing tempo to their game. Throughout a poor quality game on a very bumpy pitch, Woodleigh offered nothing really from open play that looked like threatening the home team's defence, but FDMC struggled to gain any fluidity to their game with a lack of movement, poor passing and option taking.

In a dour, scrathcy game that seemed to fuel the enthusiasm of the visitors, it was a moment of real magic that opened the scoring when Morgan HALL scooped up a poor clearance from a corner kick and drilled a superb shot from the edge of the penalty box into the top corner of the net leaving the Woodleigh goalkeeper with no chance.

The home team went in at half time 1-0 up and searching for some inspiration that might inject some life into the performance but the second half continued to drift along with neither side taking a grip on the game. Woodleigh levelled the score from a corner kick, mid way through the second half with a thunderbolt header, from an unmarked player and this seemed to be the jolt that FDMC needed. A sweeping move down the right, resulted in a superb cross to the far post and Andrew CROWE nipped in front of his marker to guide a header home and restore the lead.

Domenico SQUATRITI latched on to another good cross from the right to steer home the third and at last FDMC enjoyed some breathing space in a very scratchy game. With nothing to lose and about 10 minutes left on the clock, Woodleigh threw a number of players forward in an attempt to salvage the game and forced a number of set pieces and corner kicks that put the home side under pressure and they were rewarded for their efforts when they scored another header that took a wicked bounce of the bumpy ground into the roof of the net.

The last five minutes of the game proved to be very edgy as Woodleigh gambled even further in pursuit of an equaliser looking to take the game into extra time but FDMC held their nerve to see out a game that will certainly not go down as a classic.

FDMC can now look forward to the Semi Final next Saturday as the team seek to extend their dream run this season and earn a unique place in the Duff Rose Bowl Final to be played at Yarrows Stadium on Sunday September 14th.

1st X1 Match Report

FDMC Central Finance (3) v NPR (1)

Ending on a high note ...but it aint over just yet!!

FDMC Central Finance put in a commanding performance to comfortably win 3-1 against local rivals New Plymouth Rangers and end their league season on a high and can look forward to taking some good form in to the Quarter Final of the Duff Rose Bowl next Saturday.

NPR started brightly and played some neat football through midfield without actually penetrating the defence or creating clear cut chances and it was the home side who had to work hard to contain their opponents. After the initial flurry of play in the opening 15 minutes the game started to settle down and FDMC began to hustle well and turn over more posession. They used the ball well and threatened well down the left hand side with Andrew Crowe dazzling down the left hand side and combining well with Morgan HALL and Tomas MOSQUERA.

With NPR contesting every decision that the referee made, the game became niggly and disjointed but the home team continued to play with much more purpose and it was Tomas MOSQUERA who opened the scoring with a clinical finish inside the box. The lead was stretched moments later when a long ball over the top from MCGRATH sent MOSQUERA scampering down the right wing and a superb ball to the near post was tucked away in a flash by Morgan HALL. MOSQUERA missed a golden opportunity to add to his goal tally but missed an easy chance with the goal begging.

FDMC went in at half time with a comfortable lead and in total control of the game and they started the second half with the same level of intensity. With most of the NPR players continuing to contest every decision made by the referee the spirit of the game was severly tested and FDMC maintained their discipline well. FDMC always looked comfortable on the ball and with some fluid passing movements they were able to stretch their opponents on a number of occasions and were unlucky to not add to the two goals in the first half.

NPR looked for inspiration from the bench and made three substitutions in an attempt to change the flow of the game, but it made little difference to a determined home team. NPR grabbed themselves a life line when they scored from a quickly taken free kick with fifteen minutes left, catching keeper Stefan WALSH off his line but it was probably the only real chance that they had created all game. It spurred FDMC into action and with the away team tiring quickly, Andrew CROWE and Morgan HALL linked well to create two golden opportunities to score. Both were unlucky to see good chances just creep past the post with the keeper beaten. It was left to Morgan HALL to wrap up the game with his second goal five minutes from time and seal a well deserved victory and a dominant performance.

An excellent performance that leaves FDMC three points clear in second place above rivals Hawera, who have yet to play their final game against Eltham - Hawera needing to win by a four goal margin to steal "Runners Up" in the league. The joy and relief of signing off with a commanding victory also gave the home team their first ever Senior Cup win, as they secured the Challange Trophy for 2008, that they first won on April 5th, in their opening game of the season against back to back Champions, Waitara Football Club. The college looks forward to having their name engraved on the impressive piece of silverware for ever and a day!!

A BIG THANKS TO ALL OF THE PLAYERS, PARENTS, COLLEGE STAFF AND SUPPORTERS WHO HAVE MADE THIS YEAR THE MOST FANTASTIC SEASON OF FOOTBALL AND HAVE ENABLED THIS TO BE SO MEMORABLE IN MANY MNAY WAYS!!

1st X1 Match Report

Eltham (4) v FDMC (7)

A valuable win but still leaking goals!!

FDMC responded perfectly to a recent dip in form and rattled seven goals past a very physical Eltham team to get back on track. 5-0 up at half time and coasting the team must have thought that the job was done and conceded four quick goals in a bizarre 10 minutes of play that saw Eltham fight back and give FDMC a real scare in a game that demonstrated the very best and worst of this talented young team.

Some superb football carved open numerous early chances for the away team and Thomas SMITH opened the scoring with an excellent low drive into the corner of the net from the edge of the box. Fluid passing movements and excellent running of the ball led to a second for Tomas MOSQUERA which was quickly followed by a third from close range. At 3-0 down Eltham responded through frustration with some very heavy challenges and it was there wreckless tackling that nearly had a player sent off and ultimately led to a penalty kick. Morgan HALL kept his cool to slot home the spot kick and in a half of great play Tomas MOSQUERA rounded of his hat trick in style.

With the game won, or at least so it seemed, FDMC made a number of changes at half time and pushed forward in the early minutes of the game. In a surreal 10 minutes that followed Eltham found themselves in some good attacking positions and scored not one, but two, three and four goals in quick succession - with nothing to lose and throwing players forward they were able to catch the FDMC midfield ahead of the ball time and time again and exploited their numerical advantage to great effect. 5-4 and the game was back in the balance, but with great resolve the young players responded well and played with more shape and discipline as the game went on.

More steady at the back, Aaron HUESSER, Thomas SMITH and Andrew CROWE had more of a platform to play from and they started to combine well with the striker. It was CROWE who seized on a mistake by their keeper to slide home the sixth goal and give his team some breathing space. Morgan HALL rounded the keeper to add a seventh and by the end of the game FDMC had restored their authority and recorded a well deserved victory.

1st X1 Match Report

Peringa (3) v FDMC Central Finance (2)

FDMC SLUMP TO ANOTHER DEFEAT

On another wet and very gusty day for football, FDMC slumped to their third defeat in Round 2, handing back the initiative to Hawera in the race to secure runners up.
Against a Peringa team who offered little more than an impressive will to win, FDMC were certainly the better side but gifted their opponents two goals through a comedy of errors and some individual mistakes. Football proving once again that unless you stop conceding goals at one end, you are building on sand, no matter how potent your potential at the other end.

FDMC started well and played some good football in the first half, rarely threatened at the other end in open play and comfortably controlling posession and territory. The hugely impressive Shane GARNER was playing with a real buzz down the left hand side and teased the opposition with intricate skills, build up play and pin point crosses into the box. Midfield dominance resulted in several half chances before Rory GARNER scored the opener with a superb header from a corner kick, timing his run to perfection and nodding the ball home.

Out of nothing, a mistake by Stefan WALSH gifted Peringa an equaliser, as he came to collect a looping ball on the six yard box and misjudged it completely only to see the ball bounce into an empty net. FDMC soon established the lead once more when Morgan HALL pounced on to a wicked defelction to slot home the teams second and order was restored - it seemed.

Again out of nothing, Peringa grabbed a second equaliser when the dangerous Leighton DEARDON somehow skipped through two tackles, when seemingly well covered by a number of defenders to smash home a rasping shot from just inside the box. To their credit it was a very well taken shot that left goalkeeper, WALSH with no chance.

The second half of the game followed the pattern of the first in terms of territory and posession but FDMC increasingly failed to press home their advantage and take a number of golden opportunities to bury the game. Poor finishing, incorrect option taking and a "bit of luck" assisted Peringa's dogged defence but the increasing frustration was evident for all to see.

Peringa made only a few breaks into the FDMC half during the second half but as the game went on it was starting to look like they were more likely to score out of the two sides. DEARDON went close twice as the FDMC defence was at sixes and sevens time and time again. The inevitable happened with five minutes to go as three defenders and the goalkeeper suffered a moment of madness that cost FDMC the game and gifted the home team with a narrow win.

It was nothing more than FDMC could have expected given the fact that they seemed incapable of defending with any level of consistency and made significant errors that proved to be costly. Being the better team and playing the better football was no consolation as the team continues to find that winning formula that served them so well for so much of the season.

Back to the drawing board at training this week and some adjustment required to the attitude of the squad, who will need to turn round their current form fast if they have any hope of cementing second place and looking forward to a good run in the Cup.

1st X1 Match Report

FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE (2) v Inglewood (2)

A point gained!!

FDMC Central Finance gained a valuable point in their quest to maintain second place in the league, as near rivals Hawera suffered a rare home defeat to Peringa. But they will probably reflect on a missed opportunity to extend the gap after a very dubious penalty decision that cost FDMC a deserved win as they were held to a 2-2 draw at home against fourth placed Inglewood.

Facing possibly the worst playing conditions this seasons, both sides were reluctant to take the field but braved gale force winds and freezing rain to play the game. FDMC won the toss and elected to go with the wind in the first half and quickly established a territorial advantage. Playing to the conditions, FDMC Central Finance were able to put great pressure on their opponents and it was only a matter of time before they scored with a well taken goal by Morgan HALL. Further chances fell to Tomas MOSQUERA and Dom SQUATRITI but it was not until captain Stephen KIBBY drove into the box that the home team were rewarded with a penalty as he was cruelly taken out off the ball. Morgan HALL stepped up to calmly slot the ball home and extend the lead.

Inglewood grabbed a goal back just before half time when FDMC failed to clear a free kick played into the six yard area and in the confusion that followed, the ball fired off two players to land fortuitously at the feet of an unmarked player who slotted it home.

Turning round into the wind and rain in the second half, FDMC started the brighter of the two sides and stretched their opponents immediately with some dazzling work by sub Andrew CROWE, who linked well down the left with Morgan HALL and Tomas MOSQUERA. The first chance fell to Rory GARNER who brokje through on the right hand side and took the ball into the penalty area but he scuffed his shot wide of the post in a real let off for Inglewood. The second half was evenly shared but Inglewood did not look like they had the ability to score against a resilient defence.

As the game looked likely to end in a hard fought win for FDMC they suffered a cruel blow as the referee awarded a penalty to the visitors in a situation that remains a mystery to everyone - including the Inglewood team. In a 60 / 40 tustle between two players, in favour of FDMC defender Geoff ANDREWS, he found himself first to the ball and cleared it long towards the half way line. Everyone reacted to the development of the game except the referee who blew his whistle and pointed to the spot - there had been no appeals for a penalty and it dealt a huge blow to teh home side as they converted the spot kick.

Further chances to win the game fell to Tomas MOSQUERA who saw a couple of chances just creep past the post but the damage had been done and in the end all of the players seemed happy to return to the changing rooms for some shelter.

One point gained - yes, but it felt like two points lost and the disappointment was evident. Sweetened only by the Hawera result, FDMC now face three more league games to hold on to second spot and one more home game to claim the Challenge Trophy. They face a very tough game away to in form side Peringa next week.

1st X1 Match Report

Waitara (2) v FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE (0)

FDMC Central Finance handed the initiative to their title rivals, Waitara with a 2-0 defeat away from home but the Champions elect did not have it all their own way.

Some heavy early tackles from both sides set the tone for a fiesty encounter and it was Waitara who took advantage of posession and territory bombarding the penalty box with a succession of crosses and free kicks. Keeper Stefan WALSH was on hand to deal with a number of early chances well and saved superbly to deny the experienced striker John FLETCHER on two occassions. The build up of pressure was eventually rewarded with a very well taken goal from close range but therafter the home team struggled to maintain their dominance.

FDMC played their way back into the game with some very tough defending and incisive passing on the break but failed to make any in roads into a very well organised home defence. Tomas MOSQUERA toiled hard in a lone striker role but looked less effective without fellow striker Morgan HALL, who had withdrawn himself from the game shortly before kick off, due to illness. The lack of support up front made it difficult for the away team to sustain any real pressure but MOSQUERA nearly latched on to a pin point free kick to slide home an equaliser mid way through the half.

Good work from young Thomas SMITH in midfield supported superbly by the return of team captain Stephen KIBBY gave FDMC a solid base to play from and further chances were created for Shane GARNER and a long range effort by Ian MCGRATH whistled past the post. As half time approached the game sat evenly balanced at 1-0 and settled down into an intriguing contest.

The second half witnessed one of FDMC's best performances of the season as they quickly took control of the ball and enjoyed long periods of both territory and posession. Using width whenever possible, Rory and Shane GARNER tormented their opponents with some simple passing and clever movement and the more they received the ball the more the away team threatened an equaliser. Supported by both full backs in attack, Jaden HAREB and Sam SUTTON gave another dimension to the attack which really stretched Waitara to the limit but some good goal keeping kept the scoreline at 1-0.

It was Waitara's turn to play on the break in the second half but they only managed to threaten on the odd occassion as FDMC tightened up their team backline and put a stranglehold on the game. Keeper Stefan WALSH again denied John FLETCHER from close range and kept FDMC's hopes alive with a magnificent instinctive save. But Stephen KIBBY and Thomas SMITH continued to be emmense in midfield, winning every ball and using it wisely.

The home team were definately starting to feel the pressure as they argued amongst themselves, received two bookings for dissent and were very lucky not to have Eddie SMITH sent off for violent conduct after a blatent off the ball incident involving Domenico SQUATRITI. Despite losing their shape and facing real adversity, it was the experienced Champions who were able to dig deep and somehow just hang in there.

The best chance of an equaliser fell mid way through the half as a searching ball from deep fell to an unmarked Domenico SQUATRITI, who superbly took one touch and slipped a delightful through ball into the path of MOSQUERA. He proceeded to round the last defender and slide the ball into the net - only to be ruled off side.

With time running out for FDMC, they continued with a sense of urgency in attack as they searched for that elusive equaliser. In the last ten minutes Waitara used all of their experience to play cleverly on the counter attack which had the FDMC team scrambling back to clear their lines. With 5 minutes to go, Waitara finally got the bit of luck that they were looking for as a header at the backpost from a very dangerous corner took a wicked deflection off player coach, Ian MCGRATH and flew into the top of the net.

Waitara's ecstasy was apparant for all to see as they finally edged a thrilling game and realised the importance of grabbing a second goal which not only secured them three points but effectively handed them the title. Needing three points from their remaining four games to clinch a second successive league title, Waitara should be credited for their beligerent consistency, tough defence and threatening attacking football.

However, FDMC can be proud of the part that they played in an exceptional game of football between argueably the two best teams in the league. They now see themselves adjusting this seasons targets to taking second place in the league, getting to the Duff Rose Bowl Final and holding on to the Challenge Trophy that they won on day one of the season. Still much to play for!!

1st X1 Match Report

FDMC Central Finance (3) v FC Western (2)

MORGAN HALL GRABS A DESERVED WINNER!!

FDMC Central Finance faced tough opponents in FC Western, who were obviously bouyed with the confidence of a shock 3-0 away win aginst Inglewood last week and following their first defeat of the season it was the home side who had everything to prove.

After some heavy downpours, the pitch was holding up well but still presented both teams with a challenging environment to adapt too. FDMC edged there way into a game that started brightly enough but saw a number of early exchanges that set the tone for a niggly first half of football. The home team played tentatively and although competing well, seemed to lack the ability to impose themselves on the game.

Patches of neat football in midfield led to a number of opportunities to open up the visitors defence but they failed to exploit good attacking opportunities and lacked that trade mark killer instinct in the last third. Despite not really being troubled in open play, it was the visiting team that took an early lead by latching on to a rebound from a corner kick that goal keeper Stefan WALSH failed to hold on to. FC Western extended their lead from a direct free kick minutes later and could count themselves extremely fortunate to be 2-0 up going into half time - a scoreline that certainly did not reflect the run of play.

With a mountain to climb in the second half, FDMC turned up the pressure immediately and took control of the game in every area of the pitch. In the centre of midfield, Lance MOLYNEAUX and Domenico SQUATRITI dominated posession and used width to stretch a quickly tiring FC Western team. Penetrating movement and swift attacking options created a significant period of pressure and it was Domenico SQUATRITI who exploited an opportunity to grab the first goal with a well taken header at the back post. It was SQUATRITI who was instrumental again in a second goal, seeing his header come back off the cross bar for MOSQUERA to convert - only for the latter player to be mysteriously jusged off side.

Domenico SQUATRITI had a hand in setting up the equaliser moments later when he won a great header in the penalty area that fell into the path of MOSQUERA, who made no mistake sliding the ball into the corner of the net. Sam SUTTON started to influence the game more and more as he joined in a number of attacks down the left hand side and he put in a sequence of testing crosses that FC Western just managed to scramble away.

The pressure really started to tell in the last 15 minutes and because FC Western lacked posession and territory, it seemed only a matter of time before they conceded again. After some neat build up play in midfield, involving a number of players, a through ball fell to Morgan HALL who dashed between two defenders to slot home the winner from close range - just reward for a very controlled and dominant second half performance.

FDMC Central Finance bounced back brilliantly to win a game that could have easily slipped away and in doing so retained the Challenge Trophy and secured another three points. The team also maintain second place, four points clear of Hawera in third place and eight points clear of Inglewood in fourth.

Next week will see the eagerly awaited top of the table clash away to Waitara in a game that FDMC must win if they are to apply any real pressure on the current league leaders and give themselves an outside chance of gaining top spot.

1st X1 Match Report

HAWERA (8) v FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE (4)

One of those days.....

In a whirlwind start to an extroadinary match, which saw a flurry of goals at both ends and a remarkably open game as the second and third place teams in the league clashed in the opening game of Round 2.

FDMC Central Finance started well and played some really superb attacking football which saw them take an early lead courtesy of a trade mark Tomas MOSQUERA goal that saw him easily round the goalkeeper and side foot in to an empty goal. The lead was short lived as Hawera hit back, firstly missing a very dubious penalty but scoring immediately from the resulting corner.

FDMC Central Finance grabbed the lead moments later from a spectacular strike by MOSQUERA after he powered a long range shot into the top corner of the net. Hawera drew level moments later for the second time in 10 minutes from another corner kick exposing slack defending by the away side.

At 2-2. both teams thought that the game might settle down into a pattern but it was not going to comform to expectation and it was Hawera who grabbed another quick two goals, courtesy of another dubious penalty and a well taken goal. 4-2 down and yet playing some scintialting attacking football, FDMC Central Finance continued to push forward and continually exposed the Hawera defence with superb passing moves. Rory GARNER latched on to a rebound to steer the third goal home just inside the far post and leave most people breathless after a seven goal first half feast.

FDMC Central Finance came out firing in the second half and continued to play some exciting and penetrating football that created some early chances and it was Andrew CROWE who took full advantage of a through ball to gallop past a helpless defence and cooly slot home the fourth and equalising goal. Immediate pressure on the home team followed as FDMC Central Finance pushed forward, which earned a quick corner. In keeping with the matches theme, Hawera cleared the resulting set piece and went straight down the other end and scored, exposing some naive and casual defending.

5-4 and here we go again. Only this time Hawera immediately started to exploit the gaps in behind the two wing backs and in a 10 minute spell of pressure they grabbed three quick goals taking full advantage of two more glaring individual errors and so it was the home side who eventually made some headway in a quite extroadinary match.

Heads down and pride hurt FDMC Central Finance played out the final 10-15 minutes with real passion and continued to attempt to play some really good football. With nothing to lose at this stage, it was to their credit that the players stuck to the principles that has served them so well this season and they piled pressure on the home team until the last whistle.

Lessons to be learnt about keeping your shape, doing the basics right and sometimes accepting that it is not going to be your day - the team suffered their first loss this season against a powerful Hawera team who adapted better to the conditions and finished superbly well. The defeat still leaves FDMC Central Finance in second place, one point clear of Hawera and seven points clear of Inglewood in fourth place.

1st X1 Match Report

DUFF ROSE BOWL CUP - 1st Round

FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE (11) v WOODLEIGH DIVISION ONE (0)

A superb performance to exercise the demons of last weeks defeat aginst NPBHS and a stunning four goal brace for Morgan HALL.

In a game where the gulf in class was evident from the kick off, it quickly became a game in which the quality of our own performance would be influenced entirely by how the players applied themselves. The early signs did not look good as in form striker Morgan HALL squandered three clear cut chances to score in the first five minutes as a series of simple passing sequences opened up a helpless Woodleigh defence.

However, it was not long before the floodgates opened and FDMC Central Finance found themselves five up at half time. Goals from Morgan HALL, Jaden HAREB, Stephen KIBBY, Tomas MOSQUERA and a penalty from Sam SUTTON rounded off a fine team performance.

Three substitutions at half time saw the introduction of Thomas SMITH, Shane GARNER and Lance MOLYNEAUX and in a seemless change to the first half, FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE quickly stamped their authority on the game. Changing to an attacking 3-4-3 the home team just had too much quality passing and movement for the desperate Woodleigh team and an avalanche of goals followed. Morgan HALL added a sublime hat trick to his first half goal, taking his personal tally to four and other goals came courtesy of Shane GARNER, Stephen KIBBY and a late penalty that was tucked away by the very cold and under used goalkeeper, Stefan WALSH - reward for his cold climate endurance!!

The referee blew his whistle with 10 minutes left on the clock, calling a day on an emphatic performance and a superb first round win in the Duff Rose Bowl Cup. There seemed little point in continuing a game that was in reality finished by half time and rubbing salt into the wounds of our plucky visitors was indeed a pointless exercise.

FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE have set themselves a target of reaching this years final and look forward to resuming their campaign when they play their Quarter Final game at the conclusion of the league program in eight weeks time.

1st X1 Match Report

NPBHS (4) v FDMC (3)

EVERY CLOUD HAS A SILVER LINING!!

On a bitterly disapointing afternoon, which saw FDMC throw away a commanding 3-1 second half lead, it was later confirmed that they will make the National tournament after all courtesy of a wildcard for the Central Region. In the heat of the moment, it will be no crumb of comfort for many of the players as they look back on a game that they should have won.

In an evenly contested opening to the game, both sides took the initiative early and both defences were tested. FDMC threatened the most with Tomas MOSQUERA and Andrew CROWE spearheading the attack and creating a number of half chances. NPBHS replied at the other end looking dangerous from set pieces and corner kicks - showing signs that they would continue to be a threat in this area. It was just before half time when Andrew CROWE pounced on a corner kick that was not properly cleared and stabbed home the first goal of a frantic game. Tyson BRANDT grabbed an equaliser moments later when he found himself unmarked in the six yard box from a routine free kick that FDMc failed to deal with.

1-1 at half time and playing into a stiff breeze, FDMC went looking for another goal and Andrew CROWE popped up again to score his second from close range. In a period of dominance, Tomas MOSQUERA added a third mid way through the second half and at that moment NPBHS looked dead and buried. FDMC contained their opponents well for the next ten minutes and looked comfortably in control of the game as they passed the ball well and stretched the game at every opportunity.

On a rare forage forward NPBHS earned a corner kick which they duly scored from and the goal seemed to lift their dampened spirits. Sensing a comeback it was the home teams turn to pile on the pressure and in a five minute spell they had a series of corners that FDMC struggled to deal with. Tyson BRANDT popped up to head home his second of the game and hand a lifeline to a fortunate Boys High team.

With 5 minutes to go, a mistake or a poor decision was going to change the game in an instant and it was unfortunately both that cost FDMC the game. A hopeful through ball from midfield stretched the FDMC defence and as the NPBHS forward raced after the ball, the outstanding Thomas DRAVITZKI made a valient attempt to win the ball on the edge of the penalty box, but found himself a fraction late as he made contact with the player. A foul certainly, but the referee saw fit to red card DRAVITZKI and award NPBHS with a penalty from his position on the half way line.

Amazingly the game seemed to stand still for an eternity as he trundled his way towards the penalty box, paused to inspect any number of slide marks in the mud and pointed to the spot. Tyson BRANDT used all of his experience to step up and tuck away the spot kick giving NPBHS the most remarkable of come backs and a last gasp win.

At the final whistle, the feeling of disappointment was evident as the home team whooped with joy, realising how lucky they had been to come back from the dead and so the magnificent season long run without a loss comes to a bitter end.

A magnificent achievement in itself and i suppose an inevtiable consequence of our own success - the pressure of maintaining that run. It is not the defeat that now matters but the manner in which the players respond and with such a great group of individuals, i am certain that they will return to winning ways in style in their next game on Saturday.

1st X1 Match Report

ELTHAM (0) V FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE (3)

DING DING ROUND ONE!!

On another pleasant afternoon in South Taranaki, FDMC Central Finance strolled to another three points in a very comfortable 3-0 win against Eltham.

After a hard sequence of games and facing an opposition who were looking to gain a point to ensure their survival in the Top 8, FDMC Central Finance thought they would be in for a hard fought contest but the home team offered little to convince the neutral that it would be a fire cracker of a game.

Eltham huffed and puffed for the first 10 minutes but lacked any real quality to trouble a controlled FDMC team that gently eased their way into the game. Playing good football in patches and exploiting spaces behind both full backs, FDMC slowly took a hold on the game that they never looked like losing. In form striker Tomas MOSQUERA nodded the away team in front with an excellent headed goal from a superb cross by Aarron HUESSER and they should have extended their lead when Morgan HALL blasted a volley over the cross bar from close range shortly afterwards. Further chances to add to the lead fell to Shane GARNER, Stephen KIBBY and Aarron HUESSER but all failed to convert from close range.

Mindful that only 1-0 up at half time the home team still had a "fighers chance" of snatching an equaliser, FDMC imposed themselves on the game early on and snuffed out any sort of renaissance that Eltham had in mind. Frustration crept in as the team struggled to find the second goal that they deserved and it was surely only going to be a matter of time before they got it.

Morgan HALL played exceptionally well up front linking well with Tomas MOSQUERA and bringing others into the game. Indeed he came in for some very rough treatment from a robust if not a little crude Eltham defence and he was unlucky not to grab a goal when a snap shot in the penalty box was cleared off the line. Moments later, it was MOSQUERA who grabbed his second goal, latching on to a scrambled clearance after a blatent foul on Morgan HALL that would have ultimately led to a penalty if MOSQUERA had not converted the rebound.

The cushion of the second goal allowed FDMC to play with more freedom and attacking flair and with Andrew CROWE causing problems down the left flank a third goal was likely and it was man of the match Morgan HALL who stole a march between two Eltham players to lob the ball past the oncoming goalkeeper and seal a three goal victory.

An important and comfortable win whcih signals the end of Round 1 - a superb first half of the season and comfortably in second place, three points behing Waitara. FDMC will now enjoy a well earned rest next Saturday as the remaining catch up games are played out and look forward to their first round game in the Duff Rose Bowl the week after that.

1st X1 Match Report

NZSSFA NATIONAL LOTTO TOURNAMENT QUALIFICATION

PNBHS (1) v FDMC (1)

FDMC earned a valuable point playing away against a very strong PNBHS team in their quest for automatic qualification to the NZSSFA National Tournament. In the second of the three round robin games, FDMC faced a massive challenge as they visited a college that have regularly finished in New Zealand's top ten rankings and have been Super 8 Champions five times in the last six years.

FDMC took an early lead through a well taken goal by Shane GARNER, only to allow the opposition back in to the game 10 minutes later conceding a soft goal from a very tame long range shot. FDMC played a very tactical game from the start, adopting a version of the basketball half court press theory, by allowing their defenders to receive the ball from their goalkeeper deep in their half at all times and dropping back to just inside the half way line.

Inviting them to have the ball deep without applying pressure, with a view to either forcing them to play long or play it short into a very condensed midfield area was an attempt to get them to play in a way in which they were not comfortable. As soon as the ball was played short the midfield players applied constant pressure in numbers to disrupt and quickly turn over possession and when they went long it was generally an aimless ball. It was a tactic that worked well allowing FDMC to really unsettle their opponents and play on the counter attack with great effect.

It took 70 minutes before either the PNBHS defenders or their experienced coach, Steve Burnley worked out that to combat this system, one of their defenders had to bring the ball out from the back and commit a midfielder before off loading the ball and by this time they had grown increasingly frustrated as they continued to waste possession on a regular basis.

As expected the home team applied real pressure in the latter part of the game in an attempt to snatch a win but a combination of good goalkeeping and wasteful shooting ensured that FDMC held out to claim a heroic draw and pick up a valuable point to add to the win against Wanganui High School.

A draw or win against NPBHS on the 25th June will see FDMC qualify for the National Tournament by right for the first time in their history.

You can access match images by cut and pasting this weblink into your browser:

http://www.pnbhs.school.nz/1stxivsfrancisdouglas.html?g=73&p=1

1st X1 Match Report

FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE (5) v MOTOROA (4)

IT NEVER RAINS BUT IT POURS - LITERALLY!!

In driving rain and dreadful conditions FDMC Central Finance got back to winning ways in a close encounter that should have been dead and buried at half time. Another four goal brace by Tomas MOSQUERA and a superb strike from Rory GARNER sealed the win.

It was the home teams turn to strike early for a change and in a 20 minute spell they found themselves carving open the Motoroa defence at will and scoring four outstanding goals. Playing with confidence and desire to take advantage of a troubled Motoroa team, it was FDMC who played some of it's finest football this season. Domenico SQUATRITI and Morgan HALL also went close to adding to the scoreline with surging runs from midfield in a half of total dominance. Motoroa managed to grab one goal back just before half time to slavage some pride but they found themselves well and truly backs to the wall.

With a spectacular win on the cards, FDMC Central Finance took the field in the second half against a fierce wind and lashing rain and failed to really get out of second gear. With nothing to lose Motoroa stepped up their efforts and soon grabbed a second goal mid way through the half. Another by MOSQUERA made it 5-2 but in the spirit of the game it was not over yet.

Motoroa grabbed a third to make things more respectable for them but FDMC were guilty of missing a number of clear cut chances in the last 10 minutes to finish off the game and boost their goal difference. Typically, it was Motoroa who were not finished yet and they awarded a late fourth goal from a goal line clearance that was judged to have crossed the line.

Never a dull moment it seemed as the full time was called on a game that was like a typical blood and guts Cup game - a great spectacle for the die hard fans who braved the weather but not one to analyse. A great win that retains the Challenge Trophy and keeps the team a clear second in the table, three points behind Waitara and unbeaten this season.

1st X1 Match Report

St Johns (2) v FDMC (4)

MOSQUERA REIGNS SUPREME!!

Tomas MOSQUERA stole the attention once more as he grabbed four first class goals in the second half of the annual sports exchange at St John's in Hastings.

On a bitterly cold day and on a poor quality playing surface, it was the home team who made an early statement of intent, playing with passion and considerably more effort and enthusiasm. Their endeavour led to a deserved goal, with Mitchell Dick latching on to a neat one two on the edge of the box to drive the ball home from 12 yards. In a half that the home team largely dominated, frustration was creeping in to FDMC's performance and they failed to gain any control in the match.

Trailing 1-0 at half time after putting in a performance to forget, everyone was looking for a positive response and it was MOSQUERA who led the way. A much more competitive and energised FDMC team gained early control and started to pass the ball better, enjoying territory and posession for the first time in the game.

Morgan HALL and Stephen KIBBY dominated midfield in a manner that gave the team much more impetus and MOSQUERA started to stretch the home defence with several surging runs. The first goal was an exquisite lob, leaving the oncoming goalkeeper stranded, the second a clinical finish on the volley from inside the six yard box after good work down the right, the third was a well taken low shot to the far corner of the goal and the fourth was a superbly taken one on one with the goalkeeper - MOSQUERA doing well to maintain his composure and cool head under the pressure of a heavy challenge from the last defender.

The home team took advantage of a late defensive error that gifted them a second goal but it was too little too late and did not overshadow the increased level of performance, the quality of the goals that we scored or the second half dominance that was finally reflected in the end score.

1st X1 Match Report

Inglewood (3) v FDMC Central Finance (3)

FDMC rise like a phoenix from the flames!!

FDMC Central Finance turned adversity up side down with a thrilling second half performance that saw the team score three brilliant goals, rescue a valuable point and remain unbeaten this season.

In this eagerly awaited top of the table clash, FDMC Central Finance started much the brighter of the two sides and strikers Tomas MOSQUERA and Andrew CROWE looked dangerous right from the off, as both went close to scoring with three good early opportunities.

But the early momentum slipped allowing Inglewood to enjoy far too much space and time on the ball, which allowed the home team back in to the game. Inglewood found themselves two goals up, as Craig ADAMSON and midfielder Casey BECKETT capitalised on some casual defending. ADAMSON added a third goal just before half time to really pile on the pressure and for the first time this season, FDMC Central Finance found themselves staring down the barrell of a heavy defeat.

A frank half time discussion led to a simple decision for the team; roll over and die or roll your sleeves up and play for pride. It was a blunt message that needed a positive response and to the players credit there was an instant change in attitude and performance. A ferocious re start saw an energetic FDMC Central Finance attack from the first whistle to the last. An early opportunity just went wide of the goal as Tomas MOSQUERA latched on to a ball in the penalty area but MOSQUERA made ammends moments later with a simple header at the back post, finishing of a sweeping move down the left and a suprebly delivered cross by Shane GARNER.

A sense of hope and urgency lifted the team immediately as they bounced back in to life and spurred on by Domenico SQUATRITI and Morgan HALL in the middle of midfield, FDMC Central Finance pressed and hurried the home team at every opportunity. Winning more of the ball and most importantly closing down the space that the home team had enjoyed in the first half, Corey SUTTON added a second goal with a spectacular long range effort that left the goal keeper stranded - game on.

Restoring pride was quickly replaced by a real opportunity to get something out of the game. Midfield dominance saw the team pass the ball well and through Rory GARNER on the right and Shane GARNER on the left the away team started to stretch the play at every opportunity. Incisive through balls from the creativity of Morgan HALL and Domenico SQUATRITI caused endless problems for the Inglewood defence and it was FDMC Central Finance who grabbed an inevitable equaliser with another fine goal by Tomas MOSQUERA.

Fitness and the collective will to win took over mid way through the second half as the away team looked to "grab victory from the jaws of defeat". Both sides battled hard in the last 10 minutes to snatch that elusive fourth goal and the best chance to seal a win fell to the magnificent MOSQUERA once agin, but he was unable to keep his composure on a one on one with the goalkeeper.

It was the classic game of two halves; from the depths of despair to the heights of ecstasy, this team showed tremendous character and magnificent courage to respond in the way that they did. Not only did they restore a sense of pride but they secured a valuable point and maintained their unbeaten run this season in a game that they ironically should have won.

The team looks forward to the last two remaining fixtures of Round One and a return to winning football in coming weeks.

1st X1 Match Report

FDMC (2) v Wanganui High School (0)

FDMC took care of a routine win against Wanaganui High School in the first of three round robin games in the regional play off games to gain entry to the Lotto Premier NZSSFA tournament, held in Napier in September.

In their quest to play against New Zealand's top 16 elite school teams, FDMC gained a valuable three points but failed to deliver a really convincing performance or convert a number of chances that should have resulted in a more emphatic scoreline.

Goals in either half from Tomas MOSQUERA and Morgan HALL masked a performance that at times left everyone very frustrated and it did little to settle the nerves. Another fine performance from goal keeper, Stefan WALSH ensured a valuable clean sheet, which also included a terrific penalty save mid way through the first half.

Wanganui High School put in a determined performance and from time to time they were a real threat on the break, exposing a lack of dominance in defence by the home side. But FDMC proved to be the better of the two teams and created enough chances to win the game by six or seven goals. Andrew CROWE hit the cross bar, MOSQUERA and HALL both squandered good goal scoring opportunities and the visiting goal keeper made some exceptional saves.

A satisfying win but the team will know that they will have to significantly raise their performance in the next two games against PNBHS and NPBHS on the 11th June and the 25th June respectively and hope that the lack of goals scored does not harm their chances should it come down to goal difference.