Steve Upfold posted on August 11, 2008 21:05
In their first game in three weeks, the ladies first team were beaten 2-1 by Fencibles United at Bledisloe Park on Saturday.
The home side created more than enough chances in both halves to win the match but a lack of sharpness in the final third left the door open for the visitors who eventually closed it in the final quarter.
The first half ended goalless despite the best efforts of the Maroons - Nicole Kraakman struck the crossbar and two by-line cut backs sailed across the Fencibles six-yard line without getting the necessary touch.
Fencibles opened the scoring early in the second half after some hesitant defending at a corner let the ball spill to an unmarked player six yards out and she thankfully smashed it into the roof of the net.
But the Maroons absorbed that blow and went up a gear as they created a couple of chances which they couldn't finish before they did get back on level terms.
After some good hold-up work from Nikki, Sarah Holmes released Rose in behind the Fencibles back four and the speedy striker made no mistake in rounding the 'keeper and tucking home.
From that point the ladies looked likely each time they ventured into the opposition defensive third - and Rose did have a well-struck shot tipped over the bar - but again couldn't find the crucial touch or the correct option when it was needed to kill the game off.
They paid for that with under 10 minutes to go when a Fencibles striker found enough space in the area to get a shot on target which Catriona got a hand on but couldn't keep out.
Yet another one-goal loss for the team but it's hard to be too annoyed when the Maroons played some lovely team football against a good side who have had some good results against the top sides in the league.
Player of the day went to the entire team with everyone involved contributing to a good team effort.
Next up is Lynn-Avon United at Bledisloe Park on Sunday at 11am.
Details:
Pukekohe 1 (Rose Kraakman) Fencibles 2 HT: 0-0
Pukekohe: Catriona Bennett, Kelly Wisnewski, Lana Morris, Tania Shaw (Sarah Wild 35'), Kelsey MacDonald, Leanne Dodd (capt), Sarah Holmes, Nicole Kraakman, Kirstin Davey (Toni Holmes 45') Nicola Birch, Rose Kraakman.