Several of our junior teams ‘turned on their staunch’ against some fierce competition last weekend on two stunning sunny Masterton days.
It’s often said the Douglas Villa junior football tournament in Masterton is the one to prepare for in our region and it didn’t disappoint!
It was clear all the Upper Hutt teams across all the grades had turned up with plenty of resolve and fought hard throughout a hot day, to their very last game of the playing season.
The 10th Grade Premiers won their grade showing grit against their favourite foes Waterside Karori FC – playing through to a sudden-death goal, after a dead-locked penalty shoot-out, following a demanding draw in normal time.
The 12th Grade Tigers entered the 13th grade draw to push themselves even further this year. Playing their first ever 11-a-side game they quickly adapted after a nervous start and won two games with a determined attitude.
12th grade manager, Denise Hunter, said she was especially proud of the Tigers as they found ways to match the opposition’s skills even though they were clearly the smaller side.
“It was impressive to see them never give up and really play as a team. Their sportsmanship, encouragement and determination towards each other really carried them all throughout the day.”
That echoed all the Upper Hutt teams at the tournament. Passing, passing and creating opportunity. Staunch to the end.