THE Molong District Soccer Clubs Under 14 Falcons swooped in for victory on the weekend, claiming the Orange and District Football Association’s Division 2 grand final on Saturday morning.
The Falcons took on Orange Anglican Grammar School, or OAGS, in the match that was played at Sir Jack Brabham Park in Orange.
After a hard-fought season where that saw every player in the Falcons side grow and mature under the tireless efforts of coach Rachel Clarke, the sideline was packed and the stage was set.
With the wind at their backs in the first half, Molong started strong keeping OAGS camped in their own half with relentless pressure, which also led to some early shots on goal.
When the Falcons won an early corner, James stepped up and crossed it into the box, where Baxter pounced on a loose ball to send it into the back of the net for a 1 to 0 lead.
When Baxter made a great run from a through ball, he made the most of a second chance, footing the ball just out of the reach of the defenders, pushing Molong into an early 2 to 0.
With some strong defense across the back line, Lucas, Mitch, Flynn and Dax kept OAGS chances down to a minimum helping Mason keep a clean sheet for the first half.
With oranges consumed and the half time speech given, there was now only 30 mins left of what has been an amazing season for the Falcons.
OAGS were able to put on some early pressure as they took advantage of the wind at their backs in the second half, but again with a strong back line Molong were able to keep them out.
After several chances and some great saves by keeper Mason, OAGS were finally able to get a shot on target with a great strike that snuck in under the cross bar to bring OAGS back into the game.
With the score 2 to 1, it was a fight to the finish.
Molong was able to make several counter attacks which almost resulted in the first goal of the season for Isla as she narrowly missed with the ball scraping past the post.
With his tireless effort and non-stop running, Cooper made sure the midfield held tight as Molong wrestled for possession of the ball, keeping the pressure on OAGS.
With a couple of late free kicks to OAGS going over the bar, and a desperate clearance off the line by Mitch, Molong were able keep OAGS a bay, and when the referee blew the final whistle, pure jubilation rang out as Molong had brought home their first premiership.
Winners over OAGS 2 to 1.
It was the ultimate way to cap off a hard-fought season.
Special thanks to Molong District Soccer Club management, membership and players, as well as the sponsors for their hard work for making the win possible
A special thanks also goes to the players’ parents and guardians for their week-in week-out, support and commitment making sure the kids make it to training and the game each week.
Congratulations to coach Rach and manager Dean for their time and effort each week making this all possible for this great bunch of kids.