MATCH REPORT

FDMC CENTRAL FINANCE ARE OFF TO A FLYER!!

FDMC Central Finance got off to the best possible start, reversing the earlier pre season defeat, with a stunning 3-1 away win against 2007 League Champions, Waitara Football Club and in doing so also claimed the League "Challenge Trophy" for the first time ever. The team will look forward to defending the local football equivilent of the "Ranfurly Shield" when they face NPBHS at home next week.

Shane GARNER put the team in front with a superb left foot strike from just inside the box after 10 minutes as FDMC Central Finance settled themselves in to the game. The goal sparked Waitara into action and they soon equalised with a well taken goal from a corner kick. A serious injury to regular goalkeeper, Stefan WALSH, forced an unlikely change which saw the introduction of regular outfield player, Andrew CROWE as his replacement. After a nervous few minutes, the team battled hard to contain their opponents and went in 1-1 at half time - very much in the game.

The second half saw early chances for both sides to take the lead and a combination of poor finishing, desperate defending and the abscence of luck kept the score even until Tomas MOSQUERA latched on to a defence splitting through ball to split the Waitara defence and calmly tuck the ball away for a 2-1 lead. Further chances presented themselves as FDMC Central Finance soaked up the continued pressure, choosing to hit Waitara on the break with some effective counter attacking play. It was this "tactic" that caused Waitara real difficulties to defend against and yet another strong run from Tomas MOSQUERA was rounded off with an inch perfect through ball for fellow striker Morgan HALL, who made no mistake in sliding the ball past the oncoming goalkeeper.

That goal with ten minutes remaining in the game sealed a perfect victory, as FDMC Central Finance never looked like they would relinquish their advantage from then on in. It was the perfect start to the league campaign and yet another impressive performance that extends their excellent pre season form.

Picture inset of FDMC Central Finance "Man of the Match" - Andrew CROWE, who was outstanding as a make shift replacement goal keeper and he opitomised the team spirit which was the basis for an outstanding win.