THE Gloucester Scorpions under-14s finished their season with a 4-1 semi-final loss to Taree Jaguars last Saturday.
The Scorpions started strongly, matching Taree for possession and creating several opportunities to break into the final third.
Taree were also dangerous, finding space down both flanks and creating some threatening positions early in the match.
Gloucester struck first through Eli Soupidis, who latched onto a terrific long ball from Max Dellsperger.
Soupidis showed great determination to chase down the ball before finishing the move with a well-taken shot.
Taree responded almost immediately, finding an equaliser after the Scorpions were caught ball-watching.
Gloucester worked hard to regain control through the midfield but struggled at times to move the ball quickly enough to escape the congestion in the centre of the park.
A number of turnovers proved costly, with Taree finding the back of the net again before half-time.
The Scorpions went into the second half still in the contest but needed greater urgency, quicker passing and more attacking pressure to get back into the game.
Taree extended their lead in the second half and, despite several changes and a determined effort from Gloucester, the Scorpions were unable to apply enough sustained pressure.
Dellsperger, River Cowley, Peter Clinch and Soupidis all had opportunities in the second half but could not find the finish they needed.
The final score was Gloucester Scorpions 1, Taree Jaguars 4.
The result brings an end to an impressive 2026 season for the Scorpions, who finished with nine wins, four losses and one draw to secure third place on the end-of-season ladder.
The team made significant progress throughout the season, with players developing both individually and as a group.
The campaign included a number of strong wins, challenging matches and valuable lessons as the young squad continued to develop.
The Scorpions will now turn their attention to next season, with registration information and trial dates for travelling teams to be announced through the club’s social media channels and website.
The club has also thanked the players, supporters, parents and volunteers who contributed to the team’s season.
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
