158 Soccer Under 16A Soccer 2019 got off to a promising start with two spectacular goals scored by Calvin Davis and Qhawe Mafika within the first half of the opening fixture against Hilton College. Unfortunately, the glory was short-lived: a lack of focus and poor strategic discipline allowed Hilton College to score twice within the last ten minutes of the match to equalise. After five games the team had only recorded a single victory against Hillcrest High School. Half-term allowed the boys to reset and rethink their game plan. Beating Westville Boys’ High School 2-1, after losing to them by the same margin in our previous fixture was undoubtedly the turning-point, and highlight, of the season, where a last-minute goal ignited a three-match winning streak against teams that were arguably superior in both strength and skill. The boys’ commitment and discipline in playing to their strengths and a clearly defined game-plan, proved to the defining feature of the latter half of the season. It was also the reason the team were ultimately able to turn their efforts into tangible success on the scoreboard. Special mention goes to the leadership provided by captain Chris Henwood. His positive attitude, continual on-field words of encouragement, and sheer commitment on defence spearheaded the team’s efforts to reverse their fortunes after a dispiriting start to the season. Incredible saves by goalkeeper Matthew Jacobs were also often the catalyst the boys needed to pick up their game. The team’s perseverance and dedication through setbacks and defeats was immensely encouraging ultimately. Results: Played 9, Won 4, Drew 2, Lost 3 Mr Jonathan Waldburge r Coach U16D Soccer
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