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Steve Upfold posted on June 02, 2009 15:14
The women's first team were beaten 3-0 by league-leaders Lynn-Avon United AFC at Ken Maunder Park on Sunday.
The Maroons met and competed well with a team, full of Auckland Football age-group representative players (nine of 11 starters), in good form who have scored a handy 23 goals in their six games while conceding only two.
The home side played some neat football through midfield but for the most part the Maroons held their shape well and when Lynn-Avon did score, the goals were easily preventable.
Their first went in almost direct from a well-struck corner while Lynn-Avon's second goal came in exactly the same fashion.
The Maroons had chances to get back on level terms before the break with Sarah Holmes shooting just wide after a quick Nicole Kraakman switch while Holmes also found the Lynn-Avon keeper with a left-footed effort later on in a crowded penalty area. Nicola Birch also put an effort just wide from the edge of the box.
The final goal of the game came in the second half through a mix up at the back which presented the home side with a five-yard tap in.
Sarah Smith, a centre back by trade, made her debut for Pukekohe between the sticks when 'keeper Renee Ezekiela was forced out through illness.
Sarah did a superb job - with less than 24 hours notice - which included a couple of very good reaction blocks in the first half. Rose Kraakman worked tirelessly for the cause up top and with a touch of luck may have had a goal as a reward.
But player of the day honours went to Hayley Smith who forced mistakes from her opponents through some hard work off the ball and showed a good deal of composure on it when under pressure herself.
Pukekohe's next match is against Eastern Suburbs at Madills Farm on Sunday. Kickoff 11am.
Details:
Pukekohe AFC 0-3 Lynn-Avon Utd AFC (half: 0-2)
Pukekohe: Sarah Smith, Donna Withers, Lana Morris, Tania Shaw (Alex Titterton 55'), Kelly Wisnewski, Nicole Kraakman, Leanne Dodd (capt), Sarah Holmes, Hayley Smith, Nicola Birch (Kirstin Davey 65), Rose Kraakman.