153 1st Team Soccer 2019 was a difficult season for the Kearsney 1st XI. A series of injuries to crucial players compounded by a lack of experience contributed to the winless season. Only three players from 2018 returned this season, which meant most of the other were players earning their first caps. The season started with a pre-season tournament hosted by Maritzburg College during the July holidays. Kearsney led the hosts for most of the opening game before conceding a late penalty, which was initially saved by Jordan Baker in the Kearsney goals. A draw against Clifton followed losses to DHS and Northwood. This point enabled Kearsney to qualify for the Bowl semi-final, which was lost to Westville on penalties, after a 1-1 regulation scoreline. Defensive lapses plagued the regular season, and most games saw close encounters which could have ended either way. Set-pieces proved problematic, especially the zonal defence system employed for corners and free kicks. The team enjoyed good possession during games, but poor finishing cost them at vital moments. The lack of a natural left-footed midfielder meant that most of the attacks came up the right flank proving too predictable for opposition defences. Despite this, the boys demonstrated character, fighting each game to the final whistle. I want to thank the boys for their dedication despite the run of poor results this season. They turned up for practices prepared to work hard and played their hearts out during each game. I wish the Grade 12 players well in their future endeavours and hope the young men who remain at Kearsney learn from this year and apply themselves better for the 2020 season. Thank you to Mr Wayne Amos for his dedication to soccer as a sport, and his tireless efforts and support this year. Results: Played 14, Lost 10, Drew 4 Mr Dean Mood l e y Coach SOCCER 1ST TEAM Back row: Connor Tierney, Jack Hayes, Christopher Kiggen, Clayton Yeatman 3rd row: Noah Laurēnz, Menzi Mhlungu, Matthew Hind, Matthew Horn, Lefa Motshele, Gregory Whitehouse 2nd row: Thomas Painting, Mandiza Zama, Neels Volschenk, Ryan Meaker, Phiko Tyeso Front: Luke Gibbon, Mr Dean Moodley, Jordan Baker (Captain), Andrew Watt (Vice-captain), Mr Wayne Amos, Joshua Barrett Absent: Kamo Bikwane Soccer Sponsored by Dr SM Naidoo (NMK Orthopaedics), Javhar and Javashkaar Naidoo (Grade 9) and family.
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