Warkworth football team rises to occasion

 

The Warkworth A.F.C Women’s team didn’t go into the Second Division Cup tournament as favourites against season leaders Glenfield Gazelles, but that didn’t stop them coming away with the silverware.

Last month the side, which has had mixed results this season, grabbed a 1-0 win as the cup competition came to its climax at QBE North Harbour Stadium Domain Four.

“It felt amazing to win and it was great for our coach and supporters,” player Sue Lester says.

“When Ashley scored her goal, we knew we could do it.”

On its way to the final, the team beat Hibiscus Coast 1-0 and Takapuna 2-0.

“We were quietly determined to dent the pride of a team that hadn’t lost a game all season going into the final.”

Sue says one of the biggest challenges this season was getting a full squad together, mainly because of family commitments and injury.

“We were fortunate to have a stand-in goalkeeper and a full squad of players for the cup final.”

As it stands, the side is set to finish in the bottom third of the standings in the regular competition, with one match left to play against Birkenhead at Shoesmith Domain on September 4, 10.45am kick-off.

“It’s been a season of highs and lows.

“We go off to a great start winning our first two games but, unfortunately, couldn’t maintain it for the rest of the season.”

Sue says the team is grateful for the great support it has had from the sideline.