DIAL A TONER PRESEASON CARNIVAL

Last Saturday heralded what looks to be another exciting season for women’s football in the region. The Dial-A-Toner Pink Ribbon carnival unveiled new look teams, welcomed new players and coaches to the league and displayed quality football.

The first games started in misty rain but that failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the Under 14s as they took to the park for the first time in 2009. The junior sides played a round robin competition, with the Wanderers claiming victory at the end of the day. A round two 2-1 victory over close rivals Villa, who were triumphant last year, edged Wanderers to the top of the ladder and they remained in that position, winning the remainder of their matches in the round.

Senior games were contested in two groups, with the winners of each group to meet in the final. A clerical error saw a worthy City team ineligible to compete in the final and the second placed team in Group 1, Wanderers, stepped up to meet the leader of Group 2, an undefeated Palace.

Local breast cancer survivor Tracy Bald was on hand to toss the coin for the final. This poignant moment served to remind everyone as to the fundraising objective of the day, which raised in excess of $300 due to a raffle and player, referee and business donations.

Having already played three games throughout the day, players took to the park in what proved to be a marathon match. Whilst Palace surged forward time and time again, the resolute Wanderers repelled the attack each time. It was just sheer determination by Wanderers defence that seemingly broke down the skilful Palace play and the scoreless game was taken to extra time. Still deadlocked after a further 10 minutes, the match was again to be decided on penalties as it was last year. It was a tough initiation for Palace’s novice keeper Bec Hillyer, who stood tall in goal and saved twice. An experienced Maddy Fry stepped up for Wanderers and also claimed a couple of saves. In the end it was new Palace signing Jenna McCormick who sealed the final result to claim the lead and the silverware.

With trial matches this weekend, the final preparations will be put in place for the start of season 2009 on 2nd May.

The popular Junior Development Squad will rejoin fixtures on Saturday afternoons at 1pm, with trainings on Mondays from 5pm until 6pm at Blue Lake Sports Park under the guidance of new coach Althea Inglis. All girls between 5 and 10 years of age are welcome to join.