Pullar Builders Whakatane vs Rotorua United

Pullar Builders Whakatane have drawn 0-0 with Rotorua United.

Playing at home meant the Federation Challenge Shield was up for grabs so Whakatane needed to secure at least a draw to keep the shield.
It was possible that this was in the minds of the players as they started the game much better than in recent weeks.
On paper these two sides were evenly matched and this was shown as the game progressed. Whakatane were able to play the ball around and managed to create several first half chances but Rotorua were doing their best to keep up with the play and made a couple of runs at goal themselves. Fortunately the finishing by Rotorua was not enough to threaten the homeside goalkeeper who only had to pull off a couple of saves throughout the match. Credit to the Whakatane defence for keeping the shots at a minimum.

At the other end of the field Whakatane were able to create several chances of their own but again the shots were not going in and so at half time the scores remained 0-0.

The second half began and the wind got even stronger. This had to be taken into account as many long and high balls were simply being blown off the field. Whakatane kept up their attack and won several corner kicks which were unable to be converted. Some clever passing made the way for more chances at goal but again either the shots were not on target and/or the Rotorua Defence was desperate in their tackles. Credit to the Rotorua goal keeper who managed to keep out the pressure and earn himself man of the match.

Towards the end of the match Rotorua showed determination as they created more chances but also let themselves down with the final pass or attempt at goal. 

The game ended with no score and both teams now sit even in third place on the table although Whakatane have a game in hand.

Whakatane's player of the day went to Birthday boy Werner Rechsteiner.

Next week Whakatane will defend their shield at home to Otorohanga.