Round 4 & 5: Standing out from the crowd
A lot can happen in two games – table leaders can fall from grace and the lower ranks can rise beyond expectations. This week we start with division 3, which by all accounts the teams are each holding their own. Sino United dominate at the top, scoring an impressive 6 goals every time they take to the field. Hot on their heels are Every Nation Victory who will be out to prove themselves when these two meet in a couple of weeks. The biggest surprise came in round 4 when Navs United drew 2-all with ENV securing their first points on the table.
Division 2 has been no less exciting. The Shirley Strikers, who have been struggling near the bottom of the table, schooled division leaders, Spreydon Ankle last week 6 goals to 4. Thus handing Spreydon their first defeat of the season. Ox-E-Gen and KCC now take honours at the top of the table, but Oxford have the edge having put 11 of the best at the back of the Vatican City Rovers net. Spare a thought too for The Faith Warriors; struggling in the second division since their relegation from div 1. The Warriors scored their first win this week seeing down Christchurch North 3-1.
Nearly all teams in the first division still have a shot at winning the championship. Hornby Firsts hold onto a small 2 point lead their opponents. Both the West Coast Riders and last year’s champions, South City Firsts, can make this up with a win. Powerhouse are also sticking close with only 4 points between them and the tin cup. G-Force, who put on a good performance at the start of the season are realing from 3 consecutive loses. But the biggest achievement of recent weeks must go to Ilam Cherubs for their round 4 draw with the league leaders, Hornby United.
A couple of fields are still awaiting allocation for this weekend. Please check back Thursday for an update. Also a reminder to organisers to please let us know if you’ve postponed a match at least 48hrs before kick off to ensure the update reaches the website. Thanks to all, stay warm, stay healthy and stay H1N1 free.