Inter - School Soccer

After much excitement, training and anticipation, our primary soccer team represented MCC at the Sunraysia South Division tournament for the first time ever on Wednesday, July 24th. With a win defined as great attitude, effort and system, they let the scoreboard take care of itself. The opening match nerves were quickly dispelled as five first half goals from four different players (Clark, Nelson, Christian and Noah) established a dominant lead. Four more goals in the second half resulted in a 9-0 victory over St Joseph’s Red Cliffs.

A fifth player (Mason) opened the scoring against Red Cliffs Primary School before Nelson completed a first half hat-trick to go to the break at 4-0. Six more goals in the second half, including a late one from Declan who had only been on for a minute, meant the team completed a 10-0 victory, with our goalkeeper Regan and his defenders John and Giovanni recording their second clean sheet in a row. The team was boosted by the surprise appearance of Mr Joel and the remainder of the Gimmel classroom who popped in over lunch to show their support!

Our wingbacks Noah, Levi, Lamar and Declan were critical to our system and they were seriously tested by some tricky players in a winner takes all final match against the combined forces of Cardross/Koorlong/Red Cliffs East. Although Nelson opened the scoring, a cross goal pass led to an equaliser which was soon followed by another goal leaving us 2-1 behind. Two goals from Nelson either side of half time restored our confidence, until a controversial free kick led directly to another equalising goal for Cardross/Koorlong/Red Cliffs East! Our defence was being stretched, and Regan came up with some big saves to keep scores level. A tense final ten minutes saw both teams unable to convert big chances, until Levi Kelleher blasted home the go ahead goal from outside the box, sending the fans into rapturous celebration! An eternal last five minutes eventually expired, with MCC holding on to win the match 4-3, and the tournament undefeated!

Congratulations to our team who qualify for the Loddon Mallee Region finals on Thursday, August 8 in Swan Hill. Many thanks to the parents and relatives who attended and supported our players! Special mentions to the players who were on the bench who were ready to play when called upon and did not complain: Isaiah, Malachi, Declan, Lamar and Noah. 

Summary

MCC 9-0 St Joseph’s Red Cliffs (5-0 half time)

Goals: Clark 3, Nelson 4, Christian 1, Noah 1

MCC 10-0 Red Cliffs Primary School (4-0 half time)

Goals: Mason 2, Nelson 6, Clark 1, Declan 1

MCC 4-3 Cardross/Koorlong/Red Cliffs East (2-2 half time)

Goals: Nelson 3, Levi 1