Thunder under 8s fire up in second last match

UNDER 10s By DAN GODSMARK In the last regular game of the season, the Thunder had it all on the line. Coach David was back from his overseas trip, and the kids welcomed him with open arms. Facing Shepparton SC Black, the team knew they were in for a tough game, having played them previously. Teddy volunteered as goalie and was instantly under pressure, with the opposition giving him a headache. To his credit, he conceded only three goals before swapping with Anakin mid half. Through the midfield, Will C was his usual determined self, running through walls. Hunter kicked a remarkable goal, possibly goal of the year. Applying pressure to a defender, he inadvertently swiped the ball loose, which sailed over the defender and the goalkeeper’s head into the back of the net. After all the effort, it was a well earned goal for the team. Will H was constructive in defence, sweeping through the back half and giving the team some relief. Teddy moved up front, and Ritchie kept trying to find space, looking threatening. A change of halves and goalkeeper allowed Max to use his big kick to gain field position. This half, the team conceded only two goals. Owen started to find confidence down back, stepping in and redirecting the opposition. Bradley ran freely and showed great intent whenever he was around the ball. Hudson and Rowan always made valuable contributions. The team and parents are looking forward to seeing the kids progress next season. UNDER 8s By KIM FLACK In the second last match for the Euroa Thunder, the under 8s took to the pitch with an enthusiastic full side. Skylah was under pressure early as goal keeper, with St Mels moving the ball forward from the first whistle. Noah and Patty settled in defence and found their groove, running back to offer passing options and help return the ball into the Thunder’s attack. Speaking of attack, Max was on fire. He slotted the first goal for the Thunder and soon after added a second. Isaiah performed some great stopping and passing in the centre, keeping the ball moving forward. There was a huge number of corners for the Thunder, taken by Noah, Patty and Darcy. Will kicked a fine goal to bring the Thunder’s total to three, sparking some fun celebrations by the team. Just before half time, Darcy and Max took turns dribbling the ball forward, where Will shot and scored the Thunder’s fourth goal. The half time oranges were demolished, with Patty taking a turn in the keeper gloves. The message for the team was clear, ‘Stop. Then dribble, pass or shoot.’ The second half saw Toby and Skylah up forward, taking chances at goal. At one stage, the Thunder linked up four consecutive passes, bringing pride to coach Julio. Patty moved the ball wide whenever it came near the Thunder defence, with Will and Darcy driving it forward for Isaiah and Noah to attack the goals. Skylah and Max nearly scored, with the crowd growing louder as the Thunder got close. The final whistle blew, with awards going to Toby, Darcy and Isaiah. This Wednesday will be the final training session, featuring a Parents v Players event.