NAMBUCCA went into the North Coast Football men’s 2nd division grand final at the weekend full of confidence after a string of positive, team performances. They knew a similar effort against Corindi would produce the goods.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Coach Dan Flack opted to sit out as the 17th man with the remaining 16 players fully fit and primed for a tough, physical battle. What ensued was expected as it was an intense affair from the outset. Nambucca opened the scoring after Mark Williams made a penetrating run through the heart of the Corindi defence to unleash a left-footed shot to perfection, wide of the keeper.
Carlos Justo toiled in midfield and created headaches for the defence with some dazzling footwork and footballing skill, drawing a succession of fouls in dangerous positions. Unfortunately none could be converted. Andy Gaterell, playing on the right midfield, found himself in an advanced position on numerous occasions and peppered the keeper with shots from outside the box.
It was Williams again, however, who doubled his and the team's tally with another trademark run, resulting in another calm finish past the keeper. 2-0 at the break and Strikers with the impetus.
Nambucca looked to kill the game off early on in the second half as they continued to push forward with attacking raids from Ethan Hocking, Clay Urquhart and Nick Hickey. Isaac Hodnett came on to offer pace.
Andy Cannon's presence in central midfield was crucial in thwarting any Corindi attack and if anyone looked like getting through, the defensive trio of Romy Hewson, Brad Wilkes and Shaun Snowded, were on hand.
The final whistle blew and it was the Nambucca Strikers coming out victorious 2-0. A fantastic and well-deserved result for the team and the club. A special thank you to all who came to support the lads on the big day.
This Saturday is bonus round where the Strikers travel to Grafton to take on Majos FC in the NCF Zone Final between the north and south divisions. Kick of at 3pm at Rushforth Park.
Congratulations to Dan Flack, Brad Hodnett and all the lads for a wonderful effort.