Soccer
1 July, 2024
Falcons fade late in improved efforts
The Horsham Falcons under-12s and senior soccer teams faded late but showed more improvement in round eight of the South West Victoria Football Association on Sunday.
The under-12s kicked off first at Dudley Cornell Park against the Warrnambool Rangers Teal team and, in the first half, showed tremendous fight, courage, and skill even though they trailed by 0-2 at half-time.
They had plenty of opportunities at goal in the first half but couldn't convert.
They started the second half on fire, creating plenty of opportunities, but could not convert numerous shots on goal.
They were defending well, and it wasn't until the last ten minutes that they fell away, conceding three quick goals to lose 0-5.
Kaden Thomas and Breeze Bingarape were their best players in an improved performance against one of the top sides in the competition.
In the seniors, they played reigning premiers Warrnambool Rangers, whom they lost 21-0 in round two on May 12.
In a rough, physical game of soccer, they were more competitive, scoring the first goal through Sedat Aytar, who kicked two goals last week.
The Rangers started to get on top to kick three goals to lead 3-1 at halftime.
In the second half, the Falcons battled hard and defended many attempts, but the reigning premiers were too good, adding another five goals to win 8-1.
Club president Paul Barnett said a league representative called them on Sunday to commend them on their improvement.
"Someone from the league rang us today and was surprised how much we improved. We have players joining us from overseas and getting a few recruits, which also helps," Barnett said.
"We have improved as a team, and it is unbelievable how much improvement we have made in a short time.
"Last time against Warrnambool, they were moving down the wings and bombing it, and we had no answer. This time, we held the wings better, and they had to change how they attacked, so being able to frustrate them was a good sign."
"We are gaining more experience on the field, and getting more depth for the team is also a bonus."
The Falcons have a bye next week before returning to the pitch on July 14 against Warrnambool in Warrnambool.
The Horsham and District Soccer Club is holding a soccer school holiday fun day next Sunday at 12:00 p.m. at Dudley Cornell Park.
The club will consider running the program each school holidays for kids to try and have fun for a gold coin donation.
For further information, contact the club.