Soccer
5 August, 2024
Junior Falcons continue to soar
In round 11 of the South West Victoria Football Association, the Horsham Falcons under-12 soccer team celebrated their third win of the season against Hamilton at Dudley Cornell Reserve.
It was a tight first half. The Falcons stayed in the game, conceding only one goal, which Sam Packman scored.
In the second half, the Falcons fixed up their passing and communicated more, which enabled them to get on top.
Kaden Thomas kicked a goal to level the game. Lachlan Sweeney then hit the scoreboard for the Raiders before Thomas kicked another goal to level the scores.
Breeze Bingarape kicked the sealer, delivering the Falcons their third win of the season.
Caleb Dickerson-Williams was outstanding as a goalkeeper, showing tremendous improvement since he took the role five rounds ago.
Noah Talbot coached the team and praised the entire team for their performance.
"In the second half, we looked more comfortable with the ball at our feet after we tidied up our passing and communicated more," Talbot said.
"Our attackers stepped up and helped bring the game home. Everyone held their head up high and played well."
Talbot highlighted Caleb Dickerson-Williams's game.
"Caleb in goals was sensational. He threw his body around, got himself in the right positions, and showed really brave goalkeeping," Talbot said.
After conceding two goals, he didn't drop his head, and he stayed level-headed. He has improved out of sight."
The seniors lost 8-1 against the Warrnambool Wolves. Although they welcomed a few new players to the squad, their lack of experience and team cohesion hurt them during the game.
They fought hard, however, trailing by 4-1 at halftime. Oguzhan Kocak scored the Falcons' goal, celebrating his 50th game for the club.
In the second half, they battled hard, showing a spirited performance.
Following good form in the juniors, Stephen Tatel made his senior debut at just 14 years of age and handled himself well.
Noah Talbot said the team is showing true character.
"We have exceeded expectations as the season has gone on," Talbot said.
"The team's weekly attendance shows true character and a desire to be part of something.
"In the game itself, we could have had a couple of extra goals, but that will come in the future."
Talbot highlighted Cameron Brito and Tendai Brendain Gwekwerere's performances.
"Tendai was our best midfield player, and Cameron was also great in the midfield, working well with him," Talbot said.
The under-14s had the bye.
The Stawell Pioneers under-12s played out a 1-1 draw against the Warrnambool Wolves, with Judd Potter scoring their only goal.
The Under-17s suffered a close 3-2 loss to Hamilton, with Bronson Potter hitting the back of the net.