Whakatane Development vs TePuke

WhakataneVisique’s performance against Te Puke 2nd XI was typified by the pugnacious indominatable performance of Mitchel Dakin. Playing in a position which was totally alien to him he proceeded to badger harass and eventually out play his opposite number - a performance for which he received the “Man of the Match” award.
Whakatane Visique travelled to Te Puke without the luxury of selection from a full squad – 8 players from the young squad were unavailable. The selected team included all remaining players and  both coaches. Many players were asked to play out of position – the omens prior to the start of play were not good.
 Whakatane Visique  then ground out a scoreless draw which was exciting from start to finish. The game flowed from end to end with both sides failing to be clinical in front of goal. Upfront Rob Connolly and Daniel Sharpe had the best opportunities – both players managing to scrape the wrong side of the upright  - 4 inches away from what could have been match winning goals.
The real plaudits for the day must go to the rock solid defence. Three of the back four had never previously played in defence! They were remarkably effective against a physical Te Puke attack . Throughout the game they never gave quarter to the opposition.
“The youngsters gave 100% today. Large questions were asked of them and they responded by performing out of their skin. I am so proud of them” says Ian Finch, the coach of this young development team. “If they continue to develop at this pace they will be a very competitive unit by the middle of the season”
Next week the team travel to play Tauranga City United at Links Avenue Mount Maunganui.Again they will have to lift their game to snatch some points from a team who have a reputation for playing good football.
“I have no doubts this young team will bring it’s A game to the Mount next week. Perhaps they will have a little luck and bring home their first win of the season”