SOCCER
Gunnedah’s under-8/9 soccer team returned home as champions from a recent gala day hosted by the Moree Soccer Club.
With Australia caught up in soccer-mania as the World Cup is underway, our own budding soccer stars were marking their mark in the sport in challenging conditions.
The six-a-side competition saw Gunnedah claim three wins and take out top place in its group.
Their success sent them into the grand final against the other group winner and winning 1-0.
Coach Paul Hickman praised the boys for their determination.
The team of eight, which includes two substitutes, was slowly whittled down to just six players.
“The boys really dug in deep,” Hickman said.
“The other teams you’re playing at a carnival … they bring out their best players.
“It can be a challenge.”
Hickman was particularly delighted with the boys’ determination.
“It was really good to see,” he said.
“Being a player down is tough enough, let alone two.
“I saw them a few times sucking in a deep breath.
“They really toughed it out.
“They all played really well and are starting to gel as a team.”
Hickman said the gala days are great for the players’ development.
“We want to build a strong team for the future,” he said.
Gunnedah typically travels to other regional centres for the gala days.
At the weekend it also hosted its own gala day, which was well attended by junior soccer associations from across the region.
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