THE Urunga Raiders lifted the women’s Nambucca Challenge Cup with a convincing 5-0 victory over the Coffs United Lionesses last weekend in Nambucca.

Urunga captain Bre Martin was pleased with the passing brand of football synonymous with their style.

“We played really well as a squad getting better after every game we played, lots of combinations coming together and a great team effort.

“Showing that we play as a squad and not just relying on any individuals was seen in the fact that we had nine different goal scorers over the weekend.

“We had some close games against an Indigenous side, the Banigas, who showed they had some talent over the weekend, had good games against both Coffs United women and Coffs United under 16s, who actually played us in the grand final, so big congratulations to them on making it that far as a young squad.

“It was good to see all the women’s teams showcasing what talent they had playing some good football.

“I’m very excited for the upcoming season, great to see coffs united back in and the comp expansion allowing us to play against new teams like Port Macquarie and Kempsey, I think it’s very exciting for women’s football and can’t wait to get out there with my girls and play some good football,” said Bre.

After the recent downpours and pitch closures, Urunga FC coach Trevor Martin was happy to be on the field again as the club prepared for the new Coastal League One competition.

“I think the Challenge Cup was a great success for the hosts, with the recent weather it must have been a difficult call to press ahead despite the threat of more rain on the already wet fields and although pitch two in particular was tough to play on everyone was just thankful to be playing again.

“Urunga went through the tournament without a loss, we did start a little slow, had a scare in our second game against a Nambucca composite team who took an early lead.

“In short games, that can make things tricky but we got two back late in the game to get the win.

“Coffs was a close game with only one goal in it.

“I’m always proud of the way Urunga plays, they earn a lot of respect and this tournament was no exception.

“I’m looking forward to the season, there is a good positive vibe in the team at the moment and the new Coastal League One competition with the new teams involved is definitely a part of the anticipation,” said Trevor.

 

By David WIGLEY