UNDER 5
By HAYLEY RAGLUS
WEEK ONE
THE Euroa under 5s turned up raring to compete against Tatura White and the team had their best match of the season so far, with everyone focused and keeping their eye on the prize for the entire game.
Amity was off and running from the first whistle, kicking several unassisted goals.
Noah was a wall in defence and kept Tatura goalless in the first half.
Louie chased down the ball with determination, turning the ball over often and leading to several goals for Euroa.
Joseph covered the entire pitch and showed his versatility in defence and up forward.
In the second half, Noah moved up forward and kicked an impressive goal - his first of the season - resulting in celebrations from the crowd.
In the final minutes, Sam made a spectacular save in goals, cementing Euroa’s win.
A big thanks to coach Xav, whose passion, guidance and, most importantly, patience is bringing out the best in the team and helping them improve each week.
UNDER 8s
By KIM FLACK
THE Euroa Thunder faced off against Shepparton SC Red in a match full of energy, teamwork, and stand-out moments.
With Will standing strong in goals, the Thunder got off to a rock-solid start.
Noah and Patty formed a defensive wall in the opening ten minutes, confidently stopping every attacking effort from Shepp.
In the centre, Ruby directed play with skill, sending a pinpoint pass to Toby on the wing for a slick one-two.
Patty’s quick throw-in to Noah set up a drive through the middle, pushing the ball deep into Thunder’s attacking zone.
Toby stepped up for his first-ever corner kick, while Isaiah showed strength with solid contributions in the midfield.
With only one substitute on the bench, team manager James Bodycoat kept things running smoothly on the sideline.
Tommy thrilled the crowd with a fast dribble down the right wing before unleashing a powerful shot.
The players were so enthusiastic, they could barely stand still during the five-minute half-time break, eager to get back on the pitch.
In the second half, Noah impressed with a throw-in up forward and Will was outstanding in goals, pulling off two brilliant back-to-back saves.
Darcy brought relentless energy, taking throw-ins and chasing down everything in sight, laying strong tackles to lift the team’s intensity and Ruby’s precise passing in the centre earned her the Coach’s Award.
Coach Julio praised the team’s continued improvement, particularly in defending, passing, and those well-timed throw-ins down the line.
The Thunder are building momentum - and with effort like this, they are only getting stronger.
UNDER 10s
By DAN GODSMARK
AFTER last week's season-breaking draw, the kids were full of confidence heading into this match against the Congupna Cruizers.
With a full list and new recruit Max on board, the team was set and ready to go.
From the opening whistle, Euroa maintained strong field position in what was a tight game early on, with no clear shots on goal.
Motunui, taking on goalkeeping duties, made several solid saves.
New recruit Max quickly made his mark, while Owen found good space by holding his width on the wing.
William C and Rowan made some great runs, adding pressure up front.
Against the flow of play, Congupna broke forward and, after some loose checking, slotted the first goal of the game.
Despite an incredible save from Motunui shortly after, he was blindsided by a sharp cross, and Euroa conceded a second goal.
But the team didn’t back down.
Hunter S clearly missed the memo that they were behind and within just three minutes, he fired in two of the best finishes of the season to level the score at 2-2.
With the momentum swinging, the kids went into halftime with their tails up.
After a motivating halftime chat from coach Dave, Euroa came out firing.
Crowd favourite Hudson found space thanks to great build-up play from the team and finished confidently to take the lead.
Not long after, Teddy stepped up to take a penalty and smashed it into the back of the net.
He wasn’t done yet—Teddy struck again soon after, bringing the score to 5-2.
Ritchie was a threat all over the midfield, while Anakin and Ryder showed impressive ball control.
Will H showed off his new sliding manoeuvre, and Joseph played with plenty of courage.
Though Congupna sneaked in another goal, the day belonged to Euroa, securing their first win of the season with a 5-3 victory.
The improvement each week has been massive, and one of the great scenes after the final whistle was Teddy going around high-fiving all his teammates.
With a week off to recharge over the King's Birthday weekend, the kids and parents can take a well-earned break.
AWARDS: Anakin and Will.
UNDER 12s
By HAYLEY ROWAN
EUROA took to the field for their first game after regrading, facing a determined Shepparton City side.
Down a few players, the team welcomed Max, who showed great enthusiasm and support despite it being his first day of soccer and second match of the day - a solid addition to the squad.
The game started with intensity, with Shepparton City applying early pressure and scoring twice in the first half.
Euroa responded well, showing strong structure and resilience across the field.
Luca threatened with a powerful free kick just outside the box, nearly shifting the momentum.
In defence, Jayden, Owen, Dex, and Lucas held firm, working together to contain Shepparton’s attack.
The midfield, made up of Harry, Luca, Leo, and Max, provided strength and consistency, keeping the team connected and pushing forward.
Up front, Jasper, Liam, and Nick maintained high energy.
The highlight came when Nick received a well-placed pass, danced around his defenders with clever footwork - including a crowd-pleasing 360 spin - and fired the ball into the back of the net, much to the delight of supporters.
Despite the 2-1 loss, it was a strong showing from Euroa against tough new competition, proving they are more than capable of rising to the challenge.
This week’s awards went to Leo, Luca, and Nick for their standout performances.
UNDER 12s
RUBY was captain, and what a fierce leader she was.
Encouragement award winner was Skye.
Skye continually tries different positions and is embedding new skills every week.
Congratulations, Skye.
Ella was awarded the Boost Juice award. Ella showed determination all day and demonstrated great skills in watching the play and getting herself in the best position to support her teammates.
Some girls trialed new positions today, and they were certainly up to the challenge.
The encouragement on the pitch and from the bench was amazing today.
SCOREBOARD: EUROA 8 defeated Tatura 0.
GOALS: Bailey (two), Sav (two), Charlotte (two), Ella (two).