Gloucester Scorpions away to Wingham Warriors

THE Gloucester under-14s travelled to Wingham last Saturday to take on the Warriors on their own turf.

Coming off a 1–0 loss to Wingham just three weeks earlier, both teams knew this would be another big test with the finals fast approaching.

Wingham’s backline once again proved why they are arguably one of the best defensive units in the competition. From the opening whistle, they worked hard to close down Gloucester’s central attack, forcing the Scorpions to play out wide, where the attack repeatedly broke down and possession was lost.

The Warriors’ midfield was equally impressive, connecting passes with ease and positioning themselves well to make life difficult for Gloucester.

Time and again, Wingham pushed through the middle, while Gloucester relied on some secondary pressure from behind to win the ball back and launch another attack.

Unfortunately, the pattern continued – possession would be regained, only to be quickly lost again or forced wide.

In the middle of it all, Dean Freeman and Max Dellsperger worked tirelessly in central defence, making several important interventions to keep the Scorps in the contest.

The deadlock was finally broken just before half-time. Wingham made a strong run down the right wing and Gloucester were a little slow to react, allowing the Warriors’ winger to close in on goal and finish brilliantly from a tight angle.

At half-time, the message was clear: the Scorps needed more from the midfield, with better positioning and sharper passing combinations required to break Wingham’s defensive structure.

Unfortunately, the second half followed much the same pattern.

Gloucester struggled to hold possession for long enough to build sustained attacks, while Wingham continued to apply pressure and control large periods of the game.

Eli Soupidis was shifted out onto the wing and began to find some joy, running at the Wingham defence, cutting inside and looking to create chances with shots and crosses.

He managed to create a few opportunities, but Wingham’s defence was equal to the challenge, repeatedly getting in the way at the crucial moment.

Peter Clinch was given the difficult job of controlling the midfield for the entire game and deserves plenty of credit for a strong performance all over the park.

He worked hard defensively, tried to move the ball forward and continued to battle right until the final whistle.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough. Wingham eventually found their second goal through another dangerous central run, sealing the win and giving the Warriors a valuable edge heading into the finals.

Well done, Wingham – you’ve certainly set the bar high this season, and our two games against you have been entertaining, competitive affairs. We look forward to seeing how both teams finish the season.

The Scorps play their final game of the regular season at home next Saturday against Taree Wildcats, kicking off at 9am.

Come down and support the boys as they head into the finals.

By Trudy SCHULTZ