By Steve Fleming
On a Saturday that had threatened to be a rain-soaked wash-out, all 8 Yarra Valley SC teams took to the field in glorious sunshine to celebrate the beautiful game.
The YVSC women’s team notched up a memorable win against Knox Churches SC with Charlie Betts scoring a wonderful goal, beating two defenders to strike home with a cracking running volley.
The Valley hosted several Knox Churches teams this weekend at the Millgrove recreation Reserve, with another thrilling contest taking place between the Premier Reserves on Pitch 1.
In an often heated contest, the Valley took the lead in the first half through Luca Kuc’s incredible run at goal, only to have Knox Pride peg one back in the second half. Both sides threatened the goals in an exciting see-saw affair but none could breakthrough in what was a memorable draw.
In the senior men’s game, Knox Force came out strong and the home side was staring down a 3-0 deficit at halftime. The Valley lifted in the second half and inched closer to drawing level with goals
to Ryan Wishart and Aden Kerridge, however, couldn’t close the gap and were disappointed to suffer their first loss for the season 4-2.
The final senior game at home saw the YVSC 4ths play a classy MCSF Melkong SC outfit. Melkong played a passing and possession game that YVSC struggled to contain and despite some valiant defending, it showed in the final 3-0 scoreline.
Away from home, the YVSC Thunderthirds had a goal-fest against Knox Valour with Matt ‘The Rock’ Stockton scoring twice and Liam Spicer and Jake Conlin also finding the net. Knox responded in kind and the match was an entertaining 4-4 draw.
In the Junior games, YVSC U13’s Hosted the Monbulk Razorbacks. Oliver Papas scored a magnificent goal, weaving through several defenders before shooting from the penalty area. Sora Munro made some great attacking runs for YVSC as well, but the Razorbacks were a formidable side winning 3-1.
The YVSC U10 Dragons hosted their first match at Millgrove against Croyden Ranges SC and despite the 4-2 loss, all of the players left the field beaming with pride after their first match. Ari Maddock and Harley Fitzgerald scored for the Dragons.
Finally, the YVSC U15s played away against the Northern Eagles in Eltham. The Eagles dominated play in the first half, but Valley came back and held their own in the second half. George Lyons was
sensational for Valley scoring twice while Tom McDonald also scored, however, it wasn’t enough to claw back the 7 goal deficit.
