THE Nambucca Strikers’ Under 8s team exhibited a remarkable display of football at a Gala Day at South West Rocks last Sunday, finishing a commendable second place.

Coach Kelly Trisely praised the young dynamos, hailing their collective effort throughout the tournament.

“The Under 8s smashed it today at the South West Rocks Miniroos gala day, every one of the seven kids that played put in a massive effort,” she said.

“We started the day with only 5 players who battled hard through the first game, only to have a narrow loss.

“Bayam was reliable in goals, Dom and Max solid in defence and Lennox and Sonny persistent in attack.

“Quynn’s arrival for the second game gave us a strong, resilient midfield and we managed to win the next 2 games with these 6 superstars.

“All the other teams had seven players and plenty of reserves to rely on for a break.

“We played all three teams for a second time in round two, and with the arrival of our 7th player Cairo whose fresh legs, speed and skills were well utilised in the midfield to get us three more wins.

“Today’s display of teamwork and team support showed just how much this team has progressed individually as well as a team unit,” said Trisley.

“They earned themselves a bag-full of well set up and executed goals and backed each other up to defend their goal line, until the final whistle blew.

“Unfortunately after giving almost all they had to get to the finals, they had run out of puff and were beaten only by a well-drilled Port Macquarie team.

“I hope the team is proud to be runners-up, I sure am proud of how they played all day at their first Gala Day and so are their families who came to support them,” said Trisely.

By David Wigley