We had huge numbers at Thai Sikh Stadium for Domestic 9 and the grass was longer than ever, -it was like playing on a Southland cow paddock- but at least it was soft underfoot. It was great to have so many of the women’s team back in action and given the large numbers we decided to let the Cubs have another crack at beating the seniors.

As always the Cubs played with courage and intensity and again they came close to victory. Hooey played down back for the Cubs and had another strong game. Rutty battled through a half with his sore knee before the pain forced him from the field and Mani led from the front with his trademark pace and fitness. The Cubs had more shots on goal but were just not accurate enough, kicking thirteen behinds. The highlight of the day was unquestionably Benz’s first ever goal for the Tigers. She received the ball just outside of the center square, went for a run, steadied herself and kicked through the ball beautifully. It sailed over the head of the last defender, took a lovely bounce and rolled end over end right through the middle. The crowd erupted, the Cubs got around her and it was a moment to treasure for one of the Cubs most promising young players.

Pez had a day out, kicking four, although J-Mac would probably like to claim the one Pez snatched from the air right on the goal line. Pez’s best goal came in the second quarter. He was chasing down the ball that was heading for a behind, Hooey was tracking back in defense but just couldn’t get there before Pez got his boot to it and slid it through on the tightest of angles. It was a beauty of a goal.

It was a great day all round as we build towards the Asian Champs at the end of the month. 

Go Tigers!