SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA - LODDON MALLEE REGION FINALS

Year 8 Boys Soccer

On Tuesday 21 July, the Year 8 Boys Soccer team travelled to Moama to compete at the Loddon Mallee Regional Soccer Finals. The day began under a blanket of thick fog, with visibility limited across the venue. Fortunately, as the morning progressed, the fog slowly lifted, eventually allowing the boys to see from one end of the pitch to the other.

Before the first ball had even been kicked, the team had its first challenge of the day. Joh Na Tha Shee had mixed up the departure time, prompting several teammates to give him a wake-up call. The bus then made an unscheduled stop at his house to collect him before continuing the journey to Moama. Thankfully, he made it on board, and the boys were all set for the day ahead.

The boys were handed a challenging draw, playing four matches in a row before receiving a bye in the final round. Despite the demanding schedule, they embraced the challenge and never stopped competing for each other.

Game 1: CMCB vs Robinvale College - 4-0

CMC opened the tournament against Robinvale College and made a strong start, scoring two goals in the first half to take control of the match. The boys continued to work hard after the break, adding another two goals in the second half.

Mitchell Cope scored twice, while Harlan Laporte and Jonah Say also found the back of the net. The CMCB defence remained solid throughout the game, holding Robinvale scoreless and securing an impressive 4-0 victory. Unfortunately, this would be Jonah's only appearance for the day, with a pre-existing injury flaring up following the match and preventing him from taking any further part in the tournament. Fortunately, Archie McCullough answered the call as an emergency replacement and stepped into the team for the remaining matches.

Game 2: CMCB vs St Joseph's College, Echuca - 0-1

The second match saw CMCB face a strong St Joseph's College side. St Joseph’s struck in the opening minute through a tall and speedy forward who proved difficult to contain. The CMCB boys responded well, playing tough, consistent soccer as they refused to back down. Despite creating opportunities of their own, they were unable to find an equaliser and went down 1-0 in a closely contested match.

Game 3: CMCB vs St Joseph's, College Mildura - 1-4

In their third game, the boys came up against St Joseph's College, Mildura, who had been undefeated throughout the day. By this stage, the effects of the busy schedule were beginning to show, but the team continued to battle hard. Joh na tha Shee scored a great goal in the first half, however St Joseph’s managed to score twice before the break.

The Mildura side continued their strong form in the second half, adding another two goals to claim a 4-1 win. Kyren Rowlands was phenomenal throughout the day, making an impact in both attack and defence. His work rate and willingness to compete in every contest made him a valuable contributor for the team. Unfortunately, Kyren also suffered an injury during the match and was unable to take any further part in the day's competition.

CMCB vs Bendigo South East Secondary College - 1-4

The final match of the day was against Bendigo South East Secondary College in what was a battle of the Bendigo schools. The previous meeting between the two schools had been decided by a penalty shootout, so the boys knew they were in for another exciting contest. Despite running on tired legs, the boys rose to the occasion and gave everything they had. Some tactical changes, including moving Say Ku Shwe into the forward line, brought fresh energy to the team. In the second half, Mar Dret Mary was awarded a free kick within striking distance and made no mistake, finding the back of the net. While the goal was impressive, his celebration was a highlight in itself and seemed to go on forever, much to the amusement of teammates and spectators.

Simeon Bu also provided plenty of entertainment, showing off his footwork and confidence by standing on the ball. There were more laughs to come when Say Ku became involved in a light-hearted collision with a player he knew from the opposing team. Both boys ended up in fits of laughter, but unfortunately the referee was not aware of the joke and showed Say Ku a yellow card. Mitchell Cope was another standout throughout the tournament, running his heart out up and down the wing all day. His effort and work rate never dropped, and he continually provided energy for the team in both attack and defence. In goals, Will Smith was outstanding throughout the entire tournament. Time and time again he produced important saves, keeping the team in matches and giving his teammates confidence with his calm presence between the posts.

By the completion of the fourth game, the boys were absolutely exhausted. Having played four tough matches in succession, they showed tremendous willingness to keep competing. Although the team finished with one win and three losses, the results only told part of the story. The boys played for each other, supported their teammates, and represented Catherine McAuley College Bendigo with great sportsmanship, and most of all, they had a lot of fun. It was a fantastic day of soccer and the effort shown by every player could not be questioned. Well done to all involved on a memorable day of competition.

Mr Shannan Merrett (Coach)

TEAM: William Smith, Archie McCullough, Oscar Gilbertson, Say Ku Shwe, George Grewar, Jonah Say, Nathaniel Thompson, Kyren Rowlands, Mr Shannan Merrett (Coach), Mar Dret Mary, Harlan Laporte, Mitchell Cope, Declan Winfield, Joh na tha Shee, Simeon Bu