This week’s fixture against Bay Olympic saw us up against another top-of-the table team for the second week running.  Unfortunately, the intention of making the most of our 16-man squad came to an abrupt end before the kick-off as the opposition would only agree to the use of three rolling subs.  A bit of a disappointing decision at this level of football when players have committed themselves to putting their time and effort in, but then are not able to get a game.

The first half saw us concede a goal early on (nothing unusual there), but the team then settled down to repel further attacks and put pressure on the opposition defence.  Late on in the half a collision with an opposition player saw goalkeeper Jamie Clarke nursing an injured collarbone, but continuing to play on.  Half-time saw us go in 1-0 down, but hopeful of converting opportunities into goals.

The second half saw the Bay Olympic team step up a gear and an early counter-attack saw them score within minutes of a goalscoring opportunity for us at the other end.  Jamie also had to leave the field through injury and was replaced by Mike Thomas in goal.  Despite battling hard for the rest of the half our players were unable to break through the Bay Olympic defence and the opposition team put another three goals in the back of the net to end the game in a disappointing 5-0 defeat for Pukekohe.

Player of the day was Mike Thomas, for two critical goal-line clearances in the first half and for playing out of position in goal during the second half when Jamie had to go off.

Thanks to Steve Fabrello and Lee Du Maurier for refereeing the game and also to our supporters for their support from the sidelines.  Special mention for the guys who didn’t get to play, Geoff Dodd and Mark Ellis – full games for both of you next week, so make sure you’re feeling fit!

Also, good luck to Jamie who is moving up to the Reserves from next week.  Thanks for all your efforts between the sticks this season.  Anyone wishing to volunteer for the now vacant goalkeeping position please let me know!

Team: Jamie Clarke, Mike Thomas, Matt Green, Shane Harneiss, Blair Mason, Dale Austin, Jim Hey, Tom Shakeshaft, Donald Fleming, Anthony Kwan, Jesse Bleeker, Petru Musta, Dave Wadeley, Tony Wisnewski

Goalscorers:

Final Score: Pukekohe 0 – Bay Olympic Konini 5

Next Fixture: Away v Clevedon, Saturday 17th May (2:45pm)