2nd September 2010
United books a berth

- Report courtesy of: www.portnews.com.au

PORT United overcame a spirited Old Bar Barbarians in the last round of the Football Mid-North Coast Premier League to advance to the semi-finals.

In front of a good vocal crowd, helping celebrate the club's 'Ladies Day', United deservedly won the match 4-2 to earn their first play-off appearance since 2004 in first grade.

In doing so, the outfit also completed an undefeated season at home with six wins and two draws from their matches at Dixie Park this year.

United went into the game knowing that a loss would see their campaign over and they were forced to work hard to secure the three points. Coach Greg Baldwin was expecting Old Bar, with nothing to lose, to throw caution to the wind with the intention of spoiling United's season and, at the same time, end theirs on a high.

And, this was exactly the Barbarians' attitude. Their coach later confirmed this was one of their better performances in an otherwise disappointing year.

In an entertaining first half, both teams had a number of chances with United's Matt Denham heading over the bar after just three minutes. Then Adam Breust received a corner but unfortunately headed it directly at the keeper.

Old Bar's first chance came after 12 minutes that forced a double save from Jack Symons in goal. The home side was beginning to dominate play with Damian Cross and Adam Woonton's speed causing considerable problems down the flanks. But, they were unable to break through and when Old Bar scored from a corner, some of the hosts' supporters were thinking "here we go again".

Andy Collins began to cause havoc among the Barbarians' defence with a shot just wide and then on the half hour mark he broke through to be one-on-one with the keeper, however he inexplicably passed the ball wide to an imaginary team mate. Ryan Moon got on the end of a wide delivery to head it into the goal, only for it to be called back for the narrowest of off-sides.

After the sustained pressure took its toll, United got the equaliser after a clever back heel from Moon set Collins free to knock the ball past the busy keeper. Several minutes later, United took the lead when a powerful shot from Woonton hit the woodwork and fell to the feet of Breust who capitalised.

Old Bar had one more chance before the break when two attackers broke the offside trap and found themselves with just Symons to beat. But, the last pass went behind the runner, which gave Symons and the defence enough time to scramble back and clear the ball.

The second half started in the worst possible way for United when Old Bar levelled after just one minute. In a confusing period of play, United's Gerard Howard went down injured and, with Old Bar in possession, the side's defence pushed up as normal. However, the ball was played to a Barbarian who was technically kept on side by the downed Howard, allowing the visitors to knock it past Symons.

Despite the home team's frustrations, the decision was not going to be reversed and again their season was on a knife edge.

United kept their composure though and took the lead only two minutes later when Breust headed home from a well-delivered corner from Collins. Matt Moore was introduced to the play and had an immediate impact almost scoring with his first touch. United was again beginning to dominate the game and Old Bar spent lengthy periods unable to get play out of their half.

Following numerous wasted corner opportunities in the last game against Camden Haven, United had been working on this at recent training sessions. The effort was rewarded when on the 65-minute mark Matt Denham met a corner with intent and pace to hit a powerful header back across the keeper to secure a two-goal lead and provide some comfort to the Dixie Park faithful.

United now tackles Great Lakes Wallis Lakes in the elimination semi-final at Forster this weekend.

Off field, Ladies Day proved to be a great success.
The club would like to thank all those involved with organising the day and to the sponsors Coffee on William, Milans Hairdressing, Organic Belly, Bluewater Bar and Restaurant, Sports Power and Discount Vitamins for supplying prizes.

In a day put on for the ladies, some even showed the boys how to do it with the traditional after match boat race being contested by Jodie Wade, Nicole Breust and Kerryn Lawrence. Despite a slight head start, the footballers' wives towelled up their Old Bar male counterparts.

- Report courtesy of: www.portnews.com.au

25th August 2010
Pressure now on Wildcats

- Report by Mick McDonald, courtesy of: Manning River Times

TAREE Wildcats have to beat Great Lakes next Saturday to secure third place on the Football Mid North Coast Premier League table.

This follows Taree's 2-1 loss to competition leaders Port FC at Omaru Park.
Next Saturday will be the final competition round before the start of the playoffs.

Two defensive lapses that allowed Port to score successive goals proved costly for the Wildcats. The teams were very closely matched in the opening half and Taree was first to score with Jackson Witts beating several players to find the goal. The Wildcats held a 1-0 lead until the break.

In the second half Taree was still playing well but a 10 minute period saw a couple of defensive lapses that allowed Port to score twice to take the lead. This shook Taree into action and they pushed forward and were unlucky not to score again to even the score. That would have been a better indication of the game.

Cody Chick was named players' player. He was deputising for the injured James Thomas.

Meanwhile Taree's reserve grade secured a fourth place on the table with a 2-0 win over Port FC.
Michael Pickard and Jason Collier were the scorers.
Taree's reserve grade have continued to improve throughout the year to book a finals berth.

- Report by Mick McDonald, courtesy of: Manning River Times

24th August 2010
Minor Premiership to Port FC


PHOTO: Port Macquarie FC's Jackson Pett

Port Macquarie Football Club's Khodary Pharmacy sponsored Premier League side wrapped up the Premiers title with a round to go after securing a gutsy come from behind 2-1 victory over the Club Taree Wildcats on Saturday.

Port FC knew that a victory in either one of the two remaining rounds would secure the minor premiership. The result though didn't come easy and Port FC had to come from behind after Taree slotted home early in the first half.

Some sloppy play from Port FC led to a cheap turnover of possession deep inside Port FC territory and Taree quickly pounced, pushing the ball wide before shooting past stranded Port FC keeper Terrance Stafford.

The goal didn't immediately wake Port FC from their slumber either. Taree still managed to create a number of chances but were let down by the bumpy surface and accuracy. The same could be said for Port FC in front of goals in the first half.

The second half however, was much different. Port FC Coach David Toulson laid the law down at half time and the Port FC players responded.

Departing striker Joe Bignell worked tirelessly upfront and was rewarded with a goal early in the second half after some hustle and bustle inside the Taree 18 yard box. Bignell somehow managed to force the ball along the Taree bye-line under the attention of two defenders before driving the ball past the Taree keeper to level the score at 1 all.

Not long after and strike partner Matt Edwards again showed his class by turning his defender before unleashing a powerful shot goalwards. Unfortunately for Edwards the Taree keeper had advanced off his line and managed to get a hand on the shot. Despite this, the ball ricocheted up in the air and back towards goal before the alert Bignell tapped the ball in before a Taree defender could clear the danger to send the small number of travelling Port FC supporters into raptures.

To Taree's credit they began to chase the game, pushing players forward in an attempt to crack the Port FC defence. Port FC were not giving up the 2010 Premiers tag that easily and the defensive trio of Dylan Baker, Scott Spokes and Captain Brad Spokes repelled every attacking raid Taree could muster.

Young Jackson Pett came into the left sided midfield for the injured Troy Mountain with Paddy Coelho shifting into the centre of midfield. Pett was excellent for Port FC and worked tirelessly up and down the left flank providing Coach Toulson with some selection headaches coming into the finals.

Unfortunately for Port FC reserves the day wasn't as memorable. The side went down 2 nil to a solid Taree outfit and will now need to defeat Port Saints in the last round and hope other results go their way to qualify for this years finals.


- Report by Terrance Stafford, Port FC

20th August 2010
Minor Premiership on the line


PHOTO: Port Macquarie FC's Joe Bignell winding up against Lakes last round

A victory in tomorrow's Premier League fixture for the Khodary Pharmacy sponsored Port Macquarie Football Club over Club Taree Wildcats at Omaru Park, could see the local side wrap up the minor premiership with a game to spare.

Although the side sits only 1 point ahead of Macleay Valley Rangers (MVR), MVR have the bye in the last round and can therefore only take another 3 points out of tomorrow’s clash against the fifth placed Camden Haven Redback's who will be looking to secure their place in the finals series.

Regardless of other results, Port FC go into tomorrow's game quietly confident having won their last three games which included a 6-2 home victory against Taree only a fortnight ago.

The side is however, missing defender Toby Glover through suspension and midfielder Jordan Morris is also unavailable. All rounder Ibbi Khodary and influential playmaker Troy Mountain are also in doubt for the clash and a decision will be made on Saturday regarding their fitness. Khodary hasn't played since the sides 3 nil defeat to MVR in Round 14 due to a neck injury and Troy Mountain suffered a training injury during the week.

The side is still confident that the current playing roster can do the job and will look to send off all rounder Joe Bignell with a win. Bignell has been a powerhouse for the side this year and has filled in in goals, in defence and more recently as a strike partner with Matthew Edwards.

Bignell's all round ability and presence will be sorely missed by the side who will hope that the injury list will quickly dwindle to cover his absence.

Tomorrow's opposition Taree, currently sit in third place on the competition ladder should also go into the game confident of being able to overturn the recent defeat to Port FC given their result on Sunday against MVR. Taree have had the wood on Macleay in recent games and their catch up match on Sunday was no different. Down two nil, Taree rallied in the second period to fight back for a share of the spoils.

This result shows that Taree are not a side to be taken lightly, particularly in front of their home crowd and Port FC will have to play to the best of their ability to ensure that the minor premiership is wrestled off current holders MVR.

Port FC first grade squad – Terrance Stafford, Scott Spokes, Brad Spokes, Dylan Baker, Luke Buckley, Paddy Coelho, Matt Ramm, Matt Edwards, Joe Bignell, Dilly Prestergard, Troy Mountain, Jackson Pett, Adam Howell and Toby Glover.


- Report by Terrance Stafford, Port FC

20th August 2010
Rangers record run ends at five

- Report courtesy of: www.macleayargus.com.au

KEMPSEY Retravision Rangers premier league side missed out on taking the club's sixth straight minor premiership with a draw to last year's premiers Taree Wildcats.

The club is still in the hunt to finish in second place and play its first semi final at home. Rangers still need to get a result from the last game against Camden Haven. They finish the second round off with a bye in which they receive no points.

Last Saturday Rangers took on Port Saints at Dangar St and had a convincing 6-0 win. Goal scorers were Paul Thurlow, Steve Morn and doubles to both Potter brothers Sam and Andrew. Thurlow also came away with the Great Northern Hotel player's player award.

Sunday saw Rangers travel to Taree in a replay of last year's grand final. In a game the team should learn a lot from, Rangers held all the cards in the first half leading 2-0 at the break. Jeremy Masters and Andrew Potter were causing all sorts of problems up front and the rest of the team followed suit.

In the second half Rangers dropped right off the pace and let Taree back into the game. Taree received a penalty, which keeper Col Willis saved, only to see the rebound land in front of the Wildcats striker. Ben Riddel made a great effort to stop the shot but in the process fouled the Taree striker and another penalty was awarded. Taree didn't miss the second chance and 10 minutes later they levelled the scores after a goal mouth scramble.

Rangers held on and the 2-2 draw ended hopes of retaining the minor premiership.

It's smelling roses in reserve grade with the team flying high and still undefeated. Saturday saw a 5-1 win against Port Saints followed by a 1-0 win on Sunday.

Goal scorers for the weekend were Mitch Fuller, Jarrod Smith, Baylin Shepard, Jamie Pyne, Sam Millar and Adam Worthy. Reserve grade as well a number of junior teams have finished with the minor premiership with the club more then happy with the year's results to date.

This Saturday Retravision Rangers take on Camden Haven at Laurieton. Camden Haven is sitting in fifth place and need a win to hold that spot. Kick off for reserve grade is 1.15pm while first grade is 3pm.

- Report courtesy of: www.macleayargus.com.au

20th August 2010
Saints go down

- Report by KEVIN SINCLAIR, courtesy of: www.macleayargus.com.au

KEMPSEY Saints Football Club played last year's grand final winners Taree Wildcats on Saturday.

After a largely forgettable first round encounter Saints were determined to do better this time around. With only three games to go in its first season in premier league the squad was also determined to finish on a positive note.

First grade looked the part from the start with the midfield combination of Jason Fisher, Alistair Sinclair and Jarryd Oram matching it with their southern rivals. This time around the truer bounce of Eden St and the extra space compared to Taree's Omaru Park meant the locals were in this one all the way.

Toby O'Brien was given more room out wide and capitalised with some outstanding attack but still played his usual solid game in defence. Saints were unlucky about 15 minutes in when a clearance from their box struck a Taree forward and fell between two Saints defenders to give Wildcats an easy chance to put the visitors 1-0 up.

Saints weren't to be intimidated and continued to follow the plan of a short passing game. Shaun Fraser struck late in the second half, from about 30m out, when he put a dipping ball high into the corner of the Taree goal. Half time 1-1.

Saints questioned the officials about a Taree forward continually coming in to receive the ball from an offside position but this appeared to backfire with the second half starting with six penalties to Taree. With the wind behind them and that sort of possession it was hard for the locals to get out of their half.

Frustration grew with the penalty count and then erupted when stopper Dain Summerhill finally took exception to the constant baiting from the Taree striker. A Saints player who came into the melee was given a red with Summerhill and the Taree attacker given a yellow each.

Saints still felt confident with 10 men but a soft goal to Taree put them up 2-1. Saints continued as they started and remained competitive, unfortunately Summerhill got a second yellow and Saints found themselves with nine men for the third time this season. Sheer numbers took their toll and Taree put one away from a very forward position, in which even the Taree attacker stopped awaiting the flag, blowing the score out to 3-1.

But Saints certainly weren't disgraced. One of the best on field was veteran midfielder Fisher who continues to get better as the season progresses and could well still be playing when recently born son Dane Fisher plays seniors in 2025. Player's player was shared between Sinclair and Fraser.

Reserve grade were also determined to put up a good show. With a new line up forced by Saints finally having numbers the side got away to a shaky start. They conceded one early and it looked as if another was inevitable.

A reshuffle saw them settle but Taree still got another against the run of play to go 2-0 up. Saints got one back through the continually improving Matt Clarke to make it 2-1.

The second half was Saints reserves at their best with Clarke and the slow starting Jake Johnston finishing the game with some outstanding play. Hardworking midfielder Sam Preston again impressed as did wide man James Rossiter. Final score Taree 3-1.

Player's player was Jake Johnston.

With two games to go the feeling in the squad is positive. Saints play Port Saints away this week and the final round is at home against Camden Haven.

- Report by KEVIN SINCLAIR, courtesy of: www.macleayargus.com.au

17th August 2010
Port FC grinds out win


PHOTO: Port Macquarie FC's Dilly Prestergard on the attack

The weekend's premier league action between competition frontrunners Port Macquarie FC and Great Lakes was a vital clash for both sides. Port FC have got one eye on the minor premiership whilst Great Lakes were looking to secure a finals place.

Unlike the last time the two sides met in which Port FC blew away Great Lakes in a scintillating first half of football, the first half of this fixture was very evenly matched. Both sides created goal scoring opportunities only to be denied by some resolute defending and great goal keeping.

Port FC's striker Matt Edwards fashioned himself a great opportunity in the first half only to be denied by a full stretch dive from the Lakes keeper. Winger Matt Ramm was also in the thick of the action after Dilly Prestergard played a lovely ball in behind the Lakes defence, unfortunately for Ramm though he wasn't able to chip the keeper.

Despite the nil all score line at half time, the Khodary Pharmacy sponsored side were confident of taking the three points available. A strong wind was blowing behind the side now and it only took 3 minutes for Port FC to find the back of the net through defender Brad Spokes.


PHOTO: Port Macquarie FC's Brad Spokes celebrates his goal

Great Lakes had given away a free kick about 35 yards out to the right of goal and Port FC lined up its tall timber Edwards and Joe Bignell for the aerial assault. Unfortunately for Lakes though the ball was deftly curled around the 4 man wall by Spokes and past the stranded goalkeeper after a slight touch from a Lakes defender.

Despite the deftness of touch shown by Spokes, Edwards lined up the next Port FC free kick, this time from 35 yards out and right of the goals and he very nearly demolished the entire goal structure. Going for power, Edwards sent the ball hurtling towards the Lakes goal only to see the ball bounce off the crossbar and almost into orbit.

Despite some late pressure from Lakes, Port FC held on to their slender 1 goal advantage to take all three points.

Port FC knew that only victory would be sufficient to continue their premiership run. Competition heavyweights the Macleay Valley Rangers had the ability to take over first spot on the competition ladder on the weekend with victory over Port Saints on the Saturday and Taree Wildcats in their catch up match in Taree on the Sunday. Rangers, took all 3 points on Saturday against Port Saints with a convincing 6 nil victory but squandered a 2 nil half time lead to draw 2 all with Taree on the Sunday.

This result leaves Port FC in first place on 34 points with two competition games remaining. The first away to Taree and the second at home to Port Saints. Victory in either of these two games will see Port FC clinch the minor premiership for the first time since 2004 given that Rangers still have to take the bye in the final round.


- Report by Terrance Stafford, Port FC

17th August 2010
United back in Finals picture with impressive win

UNITED BACK IN FINALS PICTURE WITH IMPRESSIVE WIN

First Grade: Port United 3 Camden Haven Redbacks 0

The Port United first grade team have kept their semi finals chances alive with a gutsy 3-0 win over fellow finals contenders Camden Haven Redbacks on Saturday at Dixie Park in round 16 of the Football Mid North Coast Premier League. United went into the match knowing even a draw would mean the end of their 2010 chances, such was the tightness of the point scores with six teams still in contention.


PHOTO: Go ahead goal - Adam Woonton gave United the lead straight after half time

In a dominant second half performance, United scored three unanswered goals to ensure their season continues to at least the last competition weekend. The home sides injury woes continued pre game with Matt Moore ruled out after re-aggravating a back injury at training on Thursday night. Jarred Kohler had suffered a broken nose two days earlier but he bravely took the field while Ryan Moon was left on the bench to further rest his recovering ankle.

The open stages of the game produced a tentative affair from both sides as they cautiously kept possession trying to move the opposition around. After ten minutes the game started to open up and the first real chance came when the Redbacks keeper had to leave his box to get to a ball in the corner where he turned possession over to United's Trent Saville who advanced along the goal line only to have his shot turned away for a corner from a defender who had scrambled back to the near post.

Andy Collins was next to go close for United when a powerful shot was deflected just wide. United's goalie Jack Symons then returned the earlier favour when he failed to clear the ball when he was way wide but the rushed shot from the Redbacks was too high. Adam Woonton was beginning to have an impact and he showed a sign of things to come when a shot from just outside the box forced a diving finger tip save that brought another corner.

On the 30 minute mark Camden Haven had their best chance of the half when a perfectly placed cross forced Symons to tip it over the bar. The sides went to the break locked at 0-0 and United's coach Greg Baldwin stressed the need for continued patience with the their buildup.

In just the first minute after the restart home fans were jubilant when Damian Cross played a neat ball in behind the defence for Andy Collins to chase down and cross to Adam Woonton arriving to head the ball home. Just 5 minutes later Woonton was again involved when he broke free down the left flank and cut into the box where he turned a defender who stuck a leg out bringing him down leaving the referee no choice but to award a spot kick that Tony Raymond calmly put away.

From then on Camden Haven had trouble getting back into the game as United's defence comfortably dealt with any attacks mainly forcing them into long shots that never really threatened. United were taking advantage of the Redbacks structure falling away and kept their defence busy with a number of attacking raids. The game was put out of the Redbacks reach after 75 minutes when another cross from Collins was fumbled by the keeper for Saville to pounce at and head in for United's third.

Understandably Baldwin was happy with the result saying afterwards "It was just about our best second half performance of the year and quite an improvement on previous weeks".

The only disappointing thing for Baldwin was the number of corners they had, none of which converted or posed threats to the opposition goal. United now have a week off with a bye next weekend after which their fate will be clearer. Either way their last game at Dixie Park on the 28th against Old Bar will be a must win affair.


RESERVES SHARE POINTS YET AGAIN  

Reserve Grade: Port United 0 Camden Haven Redbacks 0

In the Football Mid North Coast reserve grade encounter, Camden Haven came to Dixie Park knowing a win was really needed to make the semi finals and United knew a win would secure second position.

But it was not to be for either side as they played out a 0-0 draw, United's seventh draw of the season.


PHOTO: United's Gerard Howard skips past a Redbacks opponent

For United, they felt they should have won it as they had several more chances then the visitors but just couldn't find the back of the net when the opportunities were presented. Matt Lacey was the first to threaten after 15 minutes when Simon Filipek made a good run from fullback to pass inside but the shot went wide. Then just 2 minutes later Filipek repeated the effort this time setting up Ronan Dooley (back from injury) who also shot wide.

Steve Lawrence was having his first game back from injury after several weeks and his attempt at a free kick showed it when he sent it quite wide. Filipek was again in the play when he got forward to meet a cross that he headed down to Lewis Barton who played in Nathan Wade but the shot went over the bar.

At the break coach Jono Toombs called for more intensity and someone to finish but it was more of the same in the second stanza. Early in the half Lacey crossed in to Brodie Collins who also missed the target.

On the 55th minute, Dooley cleverly worked the ball away from his marker in the box but his shot was blocked by a covering defender. With 10 minutes remaining Lacey bought out the best save of the game from the Redbacks keeper. The stalemate was confirmed when Collins again shot just over the bar in the final minute.

With a bye this weekend, United will have the chance to secure second spot on the table when they host last seasons Grand Final opponent Old Bar in the final round. The Barbarians have been climbing the ladder, so may even help United in their cause when they face third placed Great Lakes Wallis Lakes in a catch up match and then again this weekend.

- Report by Justin McIntyre, Port United Secretary

13th August 2010
United host Redbacks in do or die clash at Dixie

UNITED HOST REDBACKS IN DO OR DIE CLASH AT DIXIE

Port United's finals hopes go on the line tomorrow in round 17 of the Football Mid North Coast Premier League first grade competition at Dixie Park. Their opponents, the Camden Haven Redbacks sit just a point ahead of United in fourth position so are also walking the tightrope and face a difficult trip to Dangar next weekend to face Rangers.


PHOTO: Youngster Jarred Kohler, a key player this season for United

For United, win and their semi final chances are still alive, lose or draw and their season is over with a bye to come next weekend. They have found themselves in this position after only collecting seven points from a possible eighteen in the second round of fixtures after a promising start to the season. They have gradually slipped down the table from first place early to fifth position and with only one more game against the struggling Old Bar side to follow in the last round, anything less than three points tomorrow will see the end to their campaign.

On the positive side for the hosts, they are unbeaten at Dixie Park this season and the players are confident of continuing this trend in front of their home crowd. Despite the wet weather this week, the team trained twice and coach Greg Baldwin is happy with the build up and intensity shown for this crucial match.

"The guys are absolutely focused and know nothing less than a victory will be acceptable to the club and themselves" he said. Trent Saville gets another chance up-front after an impressive performance against Port Saints last start and finding the net regularly in reserve grade. Young Jarred Kohler has been a real find in midfield for United and he has proven to be a handful for every opponent who has tried to mark him. "Jarred is such a talented and versatile player, he is so confident on the ball for such a young player" Baldwin added.

Injury clouds still hang over Matt Moore, Ryan Moon and captain Tony Raymond but Baldwin is confident the depth in the club will cover them if they are unavailable come Saturday. United are well aware of the Redbacks playing style and know they will have to more than match their intensity.

The match kicks off at 5pm and United players, supporters and juniors are invited to come along and cheer on the team in their quest to secure the vital three points from this match.

First Grade Squad (from): Adam Breust, Andy Collins, Damien Cross, Matt Denham, John Goodman, Jarred Kohler, Ryan Moon, Josh Moore, Matt Moore, Tony Raymond (c), Trent Saville, Jack Symons, Adam Woonton


HIGHFLYING UNITED TAKE ON DESPERATE REDBACKS IN RESERVES

Like the first grade encounter, the Football Mid North Coast Premier League reserve grade match between Port United and Camden Haven Redbacks has a lot at stake as well.

While United seem almost assured of finishing in second position, the Redbacks will be in danger of missing out if they can't grab the points at Dixie Park.


PHOTO: United's Lewis Barton was on target against Redbacks in Round 7

Sitting three points outside of the top 5, the Redbacks will try and turn around a 4-2 loss to United in round 7 in Laurieton. Just above them, Port FC face a tough trip south to Wallis Lakes whilst Old Bar have the bye so victory will very much keep them in contention for finals football. Last time out, the Redbacks took the lead before youngster Lewis Barton leveled and goals to Travis Bishop, Neil Bruns and Blake Johnston completed the win for Port.

For United, Ronan Dooley looks to finally have gotten over his troublesome achilles injury and will make only his second start for the club. The experienced Steve Lawrence is also a chance to play after also being sidelined for several weeks. Out for United are Rod Gibson and Peter Goonan.

Coach Jono Toombs has seen his side drop their level at times and has stressed the need to get back on track with the semi finals beckoning. "We've been a little out of sorts at times, but our great early season run which included 6 wins in a row has us in a good position leading into the finals. We've allowed teams to be in games when we should have put them away on a number of occasions so it's important we address that now before the big games at the end of the season" said Toombs.

The match kicks off at 3.15pm at Dixie Park following the Men's Saturday League match which is a local derby between United and Port FC Cobras which gets underway at 1.20pm.

Reserve Grade Squad (from): Nathan Attwells, Lewis Barton, Cody Boylen, Neil Bruns, Brodie Collins, Ronan Dooley, Simon Filipek, Ewan Fraser, Tarun Freestone, Gerard Howard, Matt Lacey, Steve Lawrence, Stephen Pham, Nathan Wade (c)

- Report by Justin McIntyre, Port United Secretary

13th August 2010
Port FC look to continue form

The Premier League action continues this weekend with the Khodary Pharmacy sponsored Port Macquarie Football Club travelling south to Forster to take on Great Lakes Wallis Lakes tomorrow in Round 16 of the competition.

The last time the sides met in Round 7, Port FC blew Great Lakes away in the first half with four unanswered goals before conceding two late goals to finish 4-2.

Great Lakes currently sit in sixth place on the competition ladder on 21 points, 10 points behind league leaders Port FC. Great Lakes however, have a game in hand at home to local rivals Old Bar Barbarians.

Despite a very strong start to the season Great Lakes recent form has waivered. Last weekends catch-up round saw them lose 5-nil at home to Macleay Valley Rangers and before that the bye, a 5-nil victory over Kempsey Saints and a 2-all draw with Camden Haven Redbacks at Laurieton.

Port FC on the other hand have started to hit some form after their bitter 3-nil defeat to MV Rangers. Since this defeat Port FC have piled on the goals winning 7-nil over Kempsey Saints and 6-2 over Taree Wildcats.

The recent strike pairing of Matt Edwards and Joe Bignell has played a large part in the recent boost to the Port FC goals for tally. Bignell had a hand in almost every goal in both the recent victories and scored twice against Taree. Midfielder Luke Buckley has also continued his amazing run of goals and is now averaging a goal a game.

The side isn't however, growing too confident. "Macleay Valley Rangers are sitting 2 points behind and have a game in hand away to their bogey side, Taree Wildcats. Macleay do however, have the bye to come and this is why we need to take all 9 points on offer from the remaining 3 rounds", Coach David Toulson commented.

Despite being in the drivers seat for the minor premiership, the side has one eye on the larger prize, a grand final victory.

Coach Toulson remains focused and is concentrating on this weekends encounter. "Without looking too far ahead, I have noticed the intensity lift at training over the last couple of weeks. I think the boys realise that they have the chance to go all the way this year but, to do that, they have to win on the road this weekend. Great Lakes are a competent side across the park and if we don't bring our A game, they will punish us."

The first grade squad for this weekend is: Terrance Stafford, Scott Spokes, Brad Spokes (c), Dylan Baker, Luke Buckley, Trot Mountain, Paddy Coelho, Matt Ramm, Dilli Prestergard, Matt Edwards and Joe Bignell.


- Report by Terrance Stafford, Port FC

10th August 2010
Wildcats Tamed

Port Macquarie Football Clubs Khodary Pharmacy sponsored Premier League side maintained their strong home season form on the weekend taming the third placed Club Taree Wildcats 6-2.

Going into the catch up round, Port FC were sitting in first place on 28 points, 2 points clear of Macleay Valley Rangers (26) and 4 points ahead of Taree (24). A win to Taree and the race to the minor premiership would have been open for all three teams with three rounds to play in the regular season.

This was however, not the case.


PHOTO: Luke Buckley, Port Macquarie Football Club

Despite a solid start from Taree including two early one on one chances which Port FC keeper Terrance Stafford manage to snuff out, the away side, wearing Port FC's alternate yellow strip, never really got going.

Port FC on the other hand appear to be playing into some form at the right time of the season and it only took them 20 minutes to open their account.

Port FC's first goal came through a brilliant piece of improvisation from young Paddy Coelho. Coelho was fouled 10 yards inside the Wildcats territory and realising that the Taree defence had gone to sleep quickly played the free kick through the middle into the path of an unmarked Luke Buckley who swept the ball past the Taree keeper and into the back of the net.

Ports second goal also came from a free kick shortly after. From almost the same spot Coelho had just taken his free kick Scott Spokes stepped up to curl a ball towards the now alert Taree defence.

The cross was aimed for Port FC's big frontmen Joe Bignell and Matt Edwards however, Luke Buckley managed to sneak in behind Edwards, glancing the ball down and just wide of the keeper to get his second goal for the game and taking his season tally to 13.

Joe Bignell then chimed in with two goals of his own. The first coming through some excellent lead up play in the midfield & the 2nd coming off the back of strike partner Matt Edwards' shot, which was too hot for the Taree keeper to handle with Bignell picking up the scraps for an easy tap in. Port FC now lead 4 nil.

Knowing that the side had previously been in this strong position before at half time only to slacken off in the second period, coach David Toulson let the side know that it would not be tolerated and that "The side must finish strongly to take all advantage into the return fixture in a fortnights time".

And, unlike the last time the side lead 4 nil at home, the side came out firing and the fifth goal was in the back of the net within five minutes from kick off, this time through Matt Edwards.

Port FC weren't finished here though. Midfielder and Port FC man of the match Dilly Prestergard put himself on the score sheet after some excellent control, determination and trickery got him in behind the Taree defence before sending a shot into the bottom left corner of the net.

Taree did however, begin to trouble the FC defence late on in the game. Substitute striker Ricky Campbell returning from injury came on for Taree late in the half and managed to cause some nuisance up front for Taree.

His first foray came from a strong head on goal from a Taree cross. The shot was however, tipped just wide of the post by FC keeper Stafford diving to his left. The ensuing corner however, wasn't dealt with by the Port FC defence and the ball curled high and around the keeper and high onto the upright before hitting the shin of Campbell and into the back of the net.

Taree then got a second with practically the last kick of the game after another shot was pushed wide by Stafford. This time though, the Taree player found himself unmarked and unchallenged, striking the ball sweetly on the volley and into the top corner.

The result leaves Port FC in first place on 31 points with Rangers still nipping at their heels 2 points behind on 29 after their 5 nil trouncing of Great Lakes at Forster on the weekend.


- Report by Terrance Stafford, Port FC

3rd August 2010
United ease past Saints at muddy Findlay


PHOTO: Impressive performance - United's Trent Saville strikes on goal

UNITED EASE PAST SAINTS AT MUDDY FINDLAY

First Grade: Port United 5 Port Saints 0

Port United took the First grade honors over Port Saints in round 15 of the Football Mid North Coast Premier League. The players were confronted with a very wet and muddy Findlay Park pitch and it was immediately obvious that it was going to be very difficult to play football of any quality. Despite a less than convincing first half and dealing with the atrocious playing conditions, United finished with a comprehensive 5-0 victory on the back of a much improved second half performance.

United had to call upon four regulars from reserve grade with Trent Saville, Brodie Collins, Gerard Howard and Matt Denham filling the void for the unavailable players. Tony Raymond (captain), Ryan Moon, Matt Moore, Ronan Dooley, Damian Cross and Sam McLean were all absent leaving the squad depleted, much like the earlier season encounter against Saints that United won 4-2.

In a dour first half it was United who had plenty of possession but were unable to really get any genuine shots on goal with a combination of a slippery surface and the Saints dogged defence keeping them scoreless. Any shots on goal lacked power in the conditions and the biggest threat at both ends was from potential goalie fumbles of the slippery ball.

The first real chance came after twenty minutes when Adam Woonton shot just over the bar for United. Saints managed to get out of their end on a couple of occasions and on the half hour mark had their first chance when a poor clearance from the United defence was intercepted but again the shot at goal lacked any venom. Saints best chance came shortly after from a free kick that required United keeper Jack Symons to tip the ball over the bar. United then went close when Andy Collins got on the end of a free kick but he forced his shot wide. Then just five minutes before the break it looked like Trent Saville would open the scoring but he slipped over getting to the ball with an open goal begging.

United's half time talk saw the players frustrated with their efforts on goal but the need for patience was reasserted. Right from the restart they looked more dangerous and composed and after several more attacks they were rewarded when a cross from Woonton was inevitably fumbled allowing Brodie Collins a simple tap in. From here on it became a procession of United attacking raids and numerous shots on goal. Fullback Josh Moore went all the way down the left flank and crossed to Collins for his second.

Saville was enjoying numerous chances and he was finally rewarded when he pounced on a rebounded shot from Andy Collins to make it 3-0. The conditions were making it very difficult for Saints as they were rarely able to clear the ball from their end and could do little to prevent United running at will. Saville was dragged down when he looked like getting his second and from the ensuing penalty, Jarred Kohler hit the crossbar but in the melee that followed he redeemed himself to score United's fourth. United's best goal was the final one of the match after a cross from Brodie Collins was finished by a diving header from Adam Breust to round out a 5-0 mauling over their cross road rivals.

Saints remain winless after the result and they have a match coming up against the second last placed Kempsey Saints on the 21st of August which will give them the chance to avoid bottom spot. The victory for United see's them in fourth place however teams around them do have games in hand. They now have a week off with their attention turning to the potentially season defining clash with Camden Haven in two weeks time (Saturday 14th) at Dixie Park.


PHOTO: United's captain, Nathan 'Happy' Wade scored a brilliant long range goal with minutes to go

HAPPY STRIKE RESCUES POINT FOR UNITED  
Reserve Grade: Port United 1 Port Saints 1

In the Football Mid North Coast reserve grade encounter between Port United and Port Saints at Findlay, the tenacious Saints side went close to causing a major boil over when they almost protected a one goal lead until the last minute. It was a match where the second last placed Saints were not expected to trouble the second placed and minor premiership chasing United. However a stunning strike from distance was required from United's captain, Nathan 'Happy' Wade with moments remaining to save his side from an embarrassing defeat.

United went into the game very much under strength with a number of players unavailable for the match as well as four key members, Trent Saville, Brodie Collins, Gerard Howard and Matt Denham being required by a depleted first grade squad. In extremely difficult muddy conditions, they managed to be their own worst enemy with Neil Bruns and Rod Gibson missing point blank headers from excellent deliveries from Matt Lacey and other shots on goal being well saved or going just wide or over the cross bar.

Even at half time, United felt confident a goal was coming and on 57 minutes it came, but it was an own goal from a Saints free kick that deflected off Cody Boylen's back onto Bruns face and into the goal. This spurred the tenacious Saints on and they kept United at bay who were getting panicky at being behind.

With one minute left, Wade saved his teams blushes when he scored a spectacular goal from just outside the centre circle with a perfectly placed shot over the keeper that dipped just under the crossbar. Wade then almost stole the show when in the dying seconds he had the last shot of the game (which was goal bound) but it went agonisingly wide for United from a deflection.

There was to be no fairy tale ending for either side with United also unlucky with two good penalty shouts in the dyeing minutes going unrewarded. The 1-1 draw see's United in second spot, three points behind ladder leaders MVR and six ahead of the third placed Wallis Lakes outfit (both of which have two games in hand however). Whilst the Saints edge away from the bottom of the table to be four clear of the winless Kempsey Saints.

- Report by Justin McIntyre, Port United Secretary