Today’s report speaks more about team spirit shown on the night by the men from Cootamundra.

The grand final took place on Saturday September 13 at the Wagga Equex centre. The atmosphere was electric and there was a great crowd of supporters from both Cootamundra and Tumut.

From the first touch of the ball the Strikers were on the attack and had four attempts on goal in the first seven minutes.

It was definitely going to be a hard and fast game and spectators were not disappointed with the pace and quality of the game.

Cootamundra’s Sam Masters once again proved he’s a master of counter-attack as he received the ball, took it up within striking of the goal only to be stopped by Tumut’s goalkeeper. Bevan Collins spread himself throughout the midfield attacking the opposition repetitively. When the Strikers were in possession Collins beat his opponents time and time again.

When Tumut had the opportunity to attack they ran straight into Cootamundra’s fierce back line consisting of Nick Ashe, Stevie Armstrong, Luke Izzard and Josh Purtell.

On the few occasions that Tumut snuck through to challenge Cootamundra’s goalkeeper, Mick Simons, he gallantly put his body on the line to save the ball.

As time went on frustration set in. The Strikers were dominating possessions but unable to score. Both teams found themselves running from one end of the pitch to the other only to lose possession or miss the shot on goal.

Powering through, Brenton Forsyth ran the full length of the field and just as he took a shot on goals his opponent tackled him illegally and Forsyth hit the ground hard.

The Strikers were awarded an indirect penalty kick and kicker Luke Dickinson tried his best, but couldn’t seal the deal.

At the seventy-third minute Tumut’s Reece Mastellotto scored the winning goal.

When the game was complete the Strikers left the field with their heads held high, clapping their supporters and patting each other on the back.

Although heated at times both sided got on with playing soccer and although several players were exhausted they never gave up.

Strikers president James Philpott says in spite of a grand final loss, the season ended on a high note.

“It was a fast-paced and physically outstanding match to witness,” he said.

“I’m so proud of the Strikers, they never gave up.”

“I feel we were the best team on the pitch and that bring us great satisfaction.” 

On Sunday the boys got together at Cootamundra’s golf driving range to celebrate the end of the football season together.