5th May 2008

Fraser Tech defeated Hamilton Old Boys in a thrilling encounter for the inaugural Martin-Rae memorial trophy last week.
Both teams honoured last years sad passing of Meratta Martin of Fraser Tech and Old Boys Premier Coach Gary Rae in a nail biting encounter. Tech lead through a Darren Luckin field goal but Old Boys responded via a Gareth Nuzem drag flick. Only excellent keeping by stand in goal keeper Tane Apanui prevented Old Boys from gaining the lead with a series of fine saves. Tech finally took the half time advantage with a late goal and in a ten minute second half burst raced to a commanding 5-1 lead with Luckin, Jack Clayton, Owen Mitai-Wells and Grant Goile all converting chances.
Old Boys do or die attitude started an amazing revival with Nuzem, Zac Woods and Kyle Westerman all scoring to set up a frenetic finish.
NZ Masters Rep Pete Nicol was the pick of the Tech players and Clayton capped off a memorable game with a goal line save on the stroke of full time to deny Old Boys a share of the trophy.

In a fitting after match gesture, the daughter of Meretta Martin, Debbie Balme was awarded life membership to the Fraser Tech Club. Last year Balme also the Black Stick's and Midlands Manager was awarded the prestigious "Manager of the Year" Award at the Perry Foundation Waikato Regional Sports Awards.

With the National U21 tournament commencing in Christchurch depleting most sides this weekend the other matches were classed non-championship. Varsity prevailed 4-3 against the Waikato U18 men; Old Boys proved too strong for Valley United’s Mens side with Chris Pearce converting a hat trick and Zac Woods two goals in a 5-2 win. Lloyd Stephenson shrugged off his disappointment in not making the NZ team contesting the Azlan Shah Tournament this week with two well executed goals for Valley.

In the late match Suburbs dominated Tech in a comfortable 3-0 victory. Ben Te Whare opened the scoring a Hayden Ripia extended Suburbs lead immediately after the break. Matthew Reese-Gibbs sealed the win with a reversed stick shot from a goal mouth melee.

In women’s matches Fraser Tech, with two second half goals to Northland youngster Natasha Cotton, kept up their unbeaten run in a 2-0 win over Te Awamutu. Valley United women posted their first win since joining the competition with a hard fought 3-1 win over Waikato U16’s.