UNDER 8s By KIM FLACK It was a day of wind and rain, but thankfully no thunder, when Euroa Under 8s Thunder took on St Luke’s. Five keen Thunder players, plus Tommy who filled in, lined up ready to have fun, get muddy and, of course, kick the ball. Toby made some impressive saves in the first half. He worked hard to clear the ball through the mud. Darcy dribbled it forward and passed to Patrick, who booted his first ever goal. Noah kicked and dribbled wide, pushing the ball forward by giving it some air. Max blocked many of St Luke’s attempts to approach the goals, clearing it out wide to Noah. Toby made some strong kick outs in the middle of a tight knit cluster of muddy shin guards, finding Tommy and Darcy, who trapped the ball and passed it on to Noah, Max and Patty. Tommy swapped into goals for the second half, while Thunder’s enthusiasm saw many throw ins and corners almost result in more goals. Both teams showed great spirit, effort and sportsmanship. Thunder were relentless in their chasing, running and tackling. It was tough going in the wet conditions, where Patrick seemed to thrive. Well done on your award. We are looking forward to the derby next weekend, where Thunder will verse Lightning. UNDER 10s By DAN GODSMARK After two weeks off playing games, Under 10s Thunder faced Shepparton Blaster Greens. Unusually, the weather forecast was correct, with rain and heavy conditions greeting players and supporters. Kick off started with strong play and great field position. Even the umpire found herself in the firing line, getting hit with some powerful clearing balls. William H was making up for lost time, sweeping across the midfield to give our forwards a couple of half chances. Will C and Rowan managed to intercept some loose balls and rebound back. Against the grain, Ritchie made some solid saves, but one snuck past him to get the Blasters on the scoresheet. With rain teeming down, players were rotated in and out, trying to find the right combination. Teddy finally found space for Thunder’s first goal. At half time, Joseph bravely put his hand up to be the next goalkeeper. In the second half, Thunder conceded a few more goals as the kids started to run out of puff and endurance from the relentless rain. Anakin found himself in space and made some nice passes. Owen played his role in the back half, while Hunter and Max pinned down the defence. The kids ended up going down 5 to 1 but kept their heads up the whole time. Thank you to Dave as he and the family head off on their overseas trip. They will be sorely missed. UNDER 12s By HAYLEY ROWAN In cold and wet conditions, Euroa’s under 12 boys returned from a four-week break with fire in their boots, facing off against Shepparton City, who had edged them out in their last meeting. With no substitutes and two fearless recruits, Charlotte and Ruby from the under 12 girls, Euroa were able to field a full side. The match was a masterclass in energy, grit and teamwork, with every player holding their position like a seasoned professional. Jasper kicked off the scoring spree, followed by Charlotte’s classy strike. Luca added a beauty before Charlotte sealed the deal with her second goal. The final score was 4 to 1 to Euroa. It was a brilliant team effort from a determined group eager to finish the season strongly. Awards went to Luca, Harry, Charlotte and Ruby.
