AFTER hosting a successful Challenge Cup in March, all eyes eagerly awaited the kickoff of the 2024 North Coast Football season scheduled for the weekend of April 6.

However, nature had its own agenda, unleashing a deluge of over 150mm of rainfall from Thursday night through to Saturday, effectively washing out any hopes of the season getting underway as planned.

Amidst the relentless downpour, only one game managed to brave the elements: the Nambucca Strikers’ 30s women’s team took to the soggy field to face off against the Urunga Raiders on Thursday night.

Nambucca Strikers President Ricky Welsh said his players showed grit in their first half performance.

“The Strikers hung tough against Urunga, shutting down many Urunga raids and moving the ball out of their defence with ease.

“With the scores locked at 0-0 at half time, it was a close fought battle.”

With constant rain falling and the Strikers goal under sustained pressure, Urunga slotted two quick goals shortly after the start of the second half.

“It was at this point the field became unplayable after a couple of decent downpours, leaving Strikers goalkeeper Amanda Gill-Williams needing a snorkel and flippers to continue,” Welsh said.

At this point, the referees decided to abandon the match.

Despite the wet start, Welsh was buoyant about the growth in football at the club.

“This season the Strikers will field teams in all age groups from under 6s to under 16s as well as open men, open women and over 30s women.

“Comprising over 300 registrations, excitingly amongst those registrations the Strikers will be fielding teams in the under 10s, under 12s, under 14s, under 16s, open women’s and over 30s women’s, which is a first for our club.

“Exciting times ahead for football in our area, in particular for female football.”

With teams hopeful of taking to the park this weekend, games are scheduled to kick off on Saturday 13 April at Coronation Park with full canteen facilities available.

By David WIGLEY