Youth Girl’s grand final winners

WHEN the Gippsland Soccer League attempted to reboot the Youth Girls competition, only three clubs were able to produce teams in this division. 

In the interest of developing the sport for junior girls in this region, Wonthaggi United scraped together a team from its U14 and women’s players and the competition was able to run. 

The had a rocky start to the season, but overtime as their confidence grew so did their strength as a team.

Playing with limited numbers each week, due to player availability and regular COVID interruptions, the Wonthaggi Girls under Kaye’s expert coaching, managed to secure a spot in Sunday’s Grand

Final against a powerhouse Leongatha team.

Wonthaggi kicked off and immediately pressured the Leongatha defence with Billie once again dangerous up forward.

Wonthaggi was in control of game, with a strong Leongatha attack shut down by an amazing block by Wonthaggi’s youngest Daisy. 

Ania and Heidi as always, took full control of the defence line repeatedly closing the door on Leongatha. 

New players Indy and Kesan were brilliant, showing their skills on the wing. Unfortunately, it wasn’t long before a quality corner proved the winner for Leongatha giving them a handy 1-0 lead at the halftime break.

Wonthaggi didn’t give up in the second half and with 5 minutes left in the game, mid fielder Scarlett converted a Leongatha free kick to a brilliant long aerial ball over the keepers head to score the equaliser for Wonthaggi. 

Faith in goals for Wonthaggi was strong all game, confidently handling the high-pressure position. 

Despite several attempts by Wonthaggi, scores were level when the final whistle was blown.

With the game going into extra time, Wonthaggi had the opening kick-off and used it well. 

With only seconds on the clock Macy brilliantly danced around the Leongatha defence to give Wonthaggi a 2-1 lead. 

Both teams fought hard but with limited time on the clock Wonthaggi was able to hold the score and secure victory.

Club President Marion Bals said, “This is a terrific win for our Girl’s, our Club and our supporters. 

The Youth Girls competition is so important for the development of female soccer in our region. Bring on next season.”

Wonthaggi’s Scarlett Evans was a very deserving recipient of the game MVP. 

Not only did she score the equaliser but she controlled the mid field for the whole game.