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Thunderbirds Division One

Round 13

Thunderbirds Vs Helensburgh
Drew 1 - 1

Although this was a great match and probably the team's best effort so far this season, it will still be the one that got away. The day was perfect for football cool and sunny, by some quirk of the draw we faced Helensburgh again at home and as an added bonus were allocated the No. 1 ground for the first time this season. The match started in typical fashion with the team going on the offensive immediately, and early on could easily have been a goal up when a shot from Megan Arthur caught the upright and rebounded just clear of the gaol. After this scare Helensburgh increased the tempo of the match and began to apply pressure on our defense, but a well organised defense and some great work in goal by Kahlia Lane kept them scoreless. At the other end Helensburgh's constant pressure meant there limited opportunities for attack but the forwards made the most of the few opportunities. Although it seemed a long time coming the referee eventually blew half-time and the team went to the break for the first time this season without having conceded a goal.
The seconds half was more of the same as Helensburgh again pushed forward but without success. The effort seemed to be telling on the opposition as they appeared to be tiring and at the other end attacking opportunities. became more frequent. Eventually about mid-way through the half Kirsty Lunney latched on to a pass near half-way out sprinted the defense and put the ball past the goalie. Having secured the lead the team then went all out to put the match beyond doubt and although there were plenty of opportunities they just couldn't get in that decisive shot. At the other end Helensburgh roused themselves for one last effort and with 10 minutes left on the clock broke through for the equaliser. The last 10 minutes was hectic as both teams pushed forward for the winner. Despite a great effort the team had to settle for a draw.
This was a great team effort and it would be unfair to single out any individual player, they can all take a bow.

Kirsty Lunney finishes off her run from half-way to goal - for more match photos click here or on the pictures above

Round 12

Thunderbirds Vs Kiama
Lost 0 - 5

The sign were not good on arrival at a cold, wet and deserted Kiama sports field. The school holidays meant that our game was to be the only match of the day. Once again numbers looked like being a problem, as the match kicked off there was only reserve on the bench, though the arrival of another player not long after the match started doubled our reserves. However, as the match progressed old injuries resurfaced to thin out our numbers. To make things more difficult this was an improved model of the Kiama team we met earlier in the season. This team bolstered by players not available in the earlier match proceeded to test us across the field. Despite being stretched at times the team were generally able to keep the opposition in check, but lapses were punished as the scoreline demonstrates.
Up front Kirsty Lunney and Lilly Jones worked well to build promising attacks, but as in previous weeks that final touch for a goal eluded them. In mid-field Rhiannon Hughes was constantly busy as the state of her shirt demonstrated at the end of the match. At the back Bree Henderson, Isis Joyce and Clare Ward were as solid as ever. Overall, another good team effort without luck in attack or defence.

Round 11

Thunderbirds Vs South Coast United
Lost 0 - 3

The old cliche about a "Long Hard Competition" is starting to ring true for the team. The match started in perfect conditions and with three reserves the team had every reason to feel confident as they took the field. Unfortunately, things started to unravel fairly quickly. First defender Clare Ward pulled a muscle and although she tried to run it out it didn't respond and by mid-way through the first half she was out of the game. Meanwhile other players started to succumb to old injuries they were carrying and by half time the reserves' bench had become the casualty ward. On the field the team were able to match the opposition, but despite the best efforts of Kirsty Lunney, supported by Danika Wilkinson, Jessica Hampton and Jessica Thicknesse, they just couldn't convert scoring opportunities into goals. At the back our defense, although somewhat disjointed as players succumbed to injury or illness, was able to hold out the opposition and only an untidy goal mouth scramble saw them open the scoring.
The second half saw the coach worked as hard as the players as he tried to balance the need for various players to rest or recuperate while keeping 11 players on the field. On the field the team continued to match the opposition and despite conceding two more scrambled goals continued to press forward looking for scoring opportunities which did come but just couldn't be converted. Kirsty Lunney's perfectly placed cross from out wide struck the crossbar, Megan Arthur broke through and beat the keeper only to have the shot hit the upright and finally Megan broke though a second time only to have the referee call time - it just wasn't our day. In the circumstances this was a great effort from the team and hopefully with rested players next week we can make a better showing against Kiama.

The story of the match plenty of close chances but no goals. For more match photos click here or on the picture above

Round 10

Thunderbirds Vs Balgownie
Lost 1 - 3

With round 8 postponed, round 9 a bye and no matches over the Queen's Birthday weekend its been nearly a month since the last game. Obviously, after the extended break we would have preferred something easier than Balgownie, who won the earlier encounter 7 - 2. Despite this it turned out to be a great match. It started really well when early in the match Kirsty Lunney burst through to surprise the Balgownie keeper and slip the ball past her for the first goal of the match (Picture below). The early setback seemed to stun Balgownie who struggled to get back into the match as our defense proved more than capable of holding them out. It wasn't until right on half-time that they finally found a gap and were able to equalise.
The second half was more of the same as our defense in particular put in a great effort to frustrate the opposition. Up front we continued to press forward when we had the chance and Kirsty Lunney came close a couple of times. In the end a couple of well worked corners proved the difference as Balgownie took and then stretched the lead to eventually take out the match. Given the extended break, lack of training and slippery condition of the field this was a great effort and a clear indication of what the team is really capable of, hopefully there will be more of it in the coming weeks. Its hard to pick out individuals in this game but worth mentioning for great efforts were Bree Henderson, Isis Joyce, Rhiannon Hughes and Clare Ward.

Kirsty Lunney send the ball off for the opening goal of the match - for more match photos click here or on the picture above.

Round 7

Thunderbirds Vs Dandaloo

Lost 1 - 11

This was a match we really hoped would be postponed, but unfortunately a last minute swap saw the team taking on Dandaloo at Lakeside's home ground at Kannahooka. Not a happy hunting ground for the team in junior days. We were down to almost bare metal for this match with only one reserve to take on an experienced and well drilled team. Despite all this he game started well as an early attacking move saw a shot on goal fumbled by the keeper and Megan Arthur was too quick for her putting the ball into the net for an early 1 - 0 lead. Unfortunately, it was about then that the ran started and persisted on and off through most of the match. Either the early goal or the rain seemed to act as a stimulant on Dandaloo as they lifted themselves and started scoring goals. Not that they had it all their own way as the team stuck to their task despite the mounting scoreline and were able to frustrate the opposition for long periods of the match. Just to make our day right on half time goal scorer Megan Arthur suffered a knee injury that put her out of the match leaving us to play the second half with the bare 11 players. Overall the scoreline isn't a good indication of the match as the team were able to hold out Dandaloo for considerable periods during the match forcing them to play their very best to get past our defense, while up front the team was able to challenge the Dandaloo defense but just didn't have the luck to add to the score.
This was a great team effort as everyone played out the match and forced the opposition to work hard for their goals. Special mention goes to Isis Joyce and Clare Ward, who despite still learning the game put in great efforts in defense and to Ellie McNeill who was all over the ground and judging from the colour of her shirt at the end of the match on the ground a fair bit as well.
No pictures this week as the camera isn't waterproof.

Round 6

Thunderbirds Vs Dapto

Lost 0 - 5

At the risk of sounding repetitious this was another match where the score doesn't reflect the play. For large parts of this game the team was more than a match for Dapto, but lapses in concentration cost us dearly, especially in the first half. The game started badly as an early lapse saw Dapto jump out to an early lead. The team were able to settle and took the match to Dapto with some enterprising play but were unable to get that decisive finishing touch, that might have made a lot of difference to the game. As it was Dapto was able to capitalise on lapses and quickly ran in another three goals to go to the break four up.

The second half was a much better affair as our defense tightened up and held the opposition out for most of the half. Up front the team continued to play aggressive entertaining football that should have been rewarded, but they just couldn't find the back of the net. Eventually late in the game a messy scramble in the goal mouth saw the ball cross the line for an additional Dapto goal. Overall it was frustrating on the sideline to see the team's dedication and determination go unrewarded and I'm sure the players are even more frustrated. Still over the last few weeks they have shown enough skill and determination to expect to be rewarded fairly soon. On the bright side the team added to its numbers with Bree Henderson joining the team and having her first run. Bree had played in the Women's Third Grade team last year, now the Over 30s, but an injury over the summer delayed her return.

Attacker Lily Jones appears to have send the ball down for a strike, but this is football not 10 Pin Bowling - for more match photos click here or on the picture above.

Round 5

Thunderbirds Vs Fernhill

Lost 1 - 8

It may seem strange looking at the score, but this was a great improvement on the team's performance the previous week. The opposition was an experienced team formed around the nucleus of a very successful junior team coupled with talented older players. On the day they were well organised and more than a bit lucky as several of their goals came from long range shots that could have easily gone anywhere. For our part the team was much more cohesive in this game and were able to develop attacking plays, unfortunately the Fernhill defense was well drilled and was generally able to turn away our attacks. Nonetheless the team did manage to get some shots at goal, including a well placed free kick from Jessica Hampton that just skidded over the crossbar. At the back our defense was much better organised and apart from a lapse at the start of the match were able to turn away direct attacks. Unfortunately Fernhill had the skill and some luck in being able to use long range shots to get behind the defense and even score a few goals.

On the up side despite the constant pressure all the players gave their best and player the game out to the finish. Their persistence was rewarded late in the match when Lily Jones copied Fernhill and placed a well aimed lob into the net. At the back Carla Funnel, Clare Ward and Isis Joyce were tireless as was Ellie McNeill and Megan Arthur in the mid-field and Kirsty Lunney and Lily Jones up front.

Goal scorer Lily Jones beats the Fernhill defense - for more match photos click here or on the picture above

Round 4

Thunderbirds Vs Helensburgh

Lost 0 - 4

Even had one of "those days", when nothing goes right. This was it for the Thunderbirds. Passes just missed their target, shots went everywhere except in the goal and our defense struggled to contain the opposition. To add to the problems the unseasonally hot weather had continued adding to the teams problems. The first half went reasonably well despite the problems the team was having in coordination their play a combination of determined defense and some great saves by keeper Kahlia Lane kept the team in the match despite going a goal down. In the second half Helensburgh took control of the match and were able to run in another three goals despite the teams best efforts. Overall this is a match best forgotten. However, there were outstanding performances from Kahlia Lane in goals and up front Kirsty Lunney never stopped trying.

Kirsty Lunney in action against Helensburgh - for more match photos click here or on the photo above.

Round 3

Thunderbirds Vs Kiama

Lost 2 - 3

The rivalry with Kiama continues but this time in the rural setting of Jamberoo. Fortunately everyone was able to find the ground, eventually. The day was unseasonably warm and promised to be energy sapping, it was fortunate that we had an almost full contingent of reserves. As they have been in the past Kiama were determined opponents who pressed from the start and kept the defense and keeper busy. But the team was able to contain them and push back, mounting our own attacks that stretched the Kiama defense. The early phase of the match was a back and forth affair with the ball moving quickly from one end to the other, interrupted by frequent player interchanges from both teams. About mid way through the half Kirsty Lunney made a break down the right side drew in the defense and crossed in for Megan Arthur to open the scoring. The team maintained the lead for most of the half with lots of ball movement and interchanges the order of the day. But towards the end of the half Kiama struck back to even up the score, making it 1 - 1 at the break.

After a rest in the shade the second half kicked off for more of the same. As in the first half the match see-sawed from one end to the other as both sides created opportunities but eventually it was Kirsty Lunney who was able to break through to put the Thunderbirds back in the lead. The team then pressed hard to close out the match but despite some close calls from Chekobi Clements and Lily Jones they just couldn't get the ball in the net. And, as often happens it was the opposition who made the break instead as Kiama struck back to again even the score. The heat was taking its toll as the players started to tire but were still able to hold out Kiama until the last minute when a scramble in a packed goal mouth allowed a Kiama player to find a path through the legs to goal.

Despite the score overall the match was encouraging. We're continuing to score goals and be able to play constructive football both in attack and defense. The team's ranks were further bolstered by Tara Johnson who has completed her summer duties. Up front Chekobi Clements' booming shot on goal surprised everyone, including herself I suspect. The whole team gave their best despite the trying conditions, once the weather cools and the players get a bit more match fitness they will be a match for any team in the competition.

Kirsty Lunney sends the ball toward the net for the second goal - for more match photos click here or on the photo above.

Round 2

Thunderbirds Vs South Coast United

Drew 2 - 2

Having lost their first match the team went into Round 2 against South Coast United determined to show what they were capable off. The ranks were bolstered by the return of Carla Fennell and the signing of Lily Jones from last year's Under 18 First Division. Not having a junior club South Coast were an unknown quantity but the team started well and seemed capable of containing them. As the match progressed it was shaping up as a fairly even contest as both sides created scoring opportunities but were unable to finish them off. Finally mid-way through the half a corner from Ellie McNeill landed perfectly for new starter Lily Jones, who slotted home the first goal of the match. The rest of the half followed the earlier pattern as both sides searched for openings but could convert opportunities. Still it was satisfying to go into the break one goal up.
The second half kicked-off around midday with the temperature ominously warm. The team quickly settled in to a routine covering well at the back and pushing forward at every opportunity. Their aggression paid off when Kirsty Lunney made an incisive run down the right worked her way around the defenders and shot cleanly for our second goal. With a two goal lead the team attempted to consolidate, but the heat began to take its toll. As the team tired the opposition rallied and were able make up the deficit with two late goals finishing the match 2 - 2. Despite the scoreline this was a great improvement on our pervious match and bodes well for future games. It was good to see Carla Fennell back on the field and new starter Lily Jones made an instant impact with the first goal. Of the "regulars" keeper Kahlia Lane had a great game while Ellie McNeill, Megan Arthur and Alex Pritchard ran themselves into ground.

A few last instructions from the coach before the team goes into action for more match photos click here or on the picture above.

Round 1

Thunderbirds Vs Balgownie

Lost 2 - 7

The transition from Juniors to Seniors started when the match, belatedly, got under way at Balgownie. The match started well despite the lack of training over the last couple of weeks. The team settled in and was playing constructive football and seemed capable of holding the opposition. Unfortunately, a lapse in concentration gave Balgownie the opportunity to pounce and two goals in the space of a few minutes changed the match. With the advantage on their side the opposition continued to press and were rewarded with a further goal deep into the half. To their credit the team didn't lose heart and continued to look for attacking opportunities. Late in the half they were rewarded as first Kirsty Lunney and then Alex Pritchard (picture below) took advantage of errors by the Balgownie goalie to score the teams first goals of the season to go to the break down 2 - 3.
Although the scoreline looked promising at half time in the second half the heat, injuries and lack of training took its toll and Balgownie took control of the match eventually adding another four goals. Despite the final score the team showed enough skill and determination to expect that they will get better results as the season progresses. At the back new players Clare Ward and Isis Joyce are settling in well and are both showing a talent for defense. Our other new recruits Kirsty Lunney, Chekobi Clements, Rhiannon Hughes and Jessica Thickness all settled in well. It was also good to see Emma Blacklaw, still recovering from illness, and Carla Fennell and Alicia Chin at the game to cheer the team along. Next time they'll give them more to cheer.

Alex Pritchard puts away the teams second goal. Click here or on the photo above for more photos