Matakana rise to reclaim ROSA football title

The Matakana FC men’s team has claimed the Rodney Otamatea Soccer Association Open Grade title for the first time in at least five years.

The team grabbed top spot with a 2-1 win over title rivals Quik Auto Wellsford.

This put them five points clear on the ladder, with one round remaining.

Team organiser Sam Williamson says it was great to win the season going into what he knew would be a tough match.

“Wellsford have a lot of depth and are the team to beat, so getting on top in what was a close game was really exciting,” Sam says.

When Mahurangi Matters went to print, Matakana had won nine of its 13 season fixtures, with one remaining game against Warkworth.

“We started off with a hiss and a roar this year and tapered off towards the end of the season, but did well to hold on to the lead,” Sam says.

“Our strength was the way we linked up on the field and gelled as a team.”

Sam also noted having more players return this season helped strengthen the side, while four new team members also proved to be strong.

“Looking forward, recruitment of players is our biggest focus to build this side. With the growth in the area, I think we can achieve that.”