10 Oct 2006
by Joe McCaffrey

Ranked 24th out of 24 teams Waikato “killer B’s” attended Collier A tournament in Napier. Placed in the hardest pool, we held our own against the top ranked teams.
In searing 22 degree heat on Sunday, they took on Northland(ranked 7th) and lost 2-0. Five hours later, still in searing heat, they took on Canterbury(ranked2nd) and to their credit defended onslaught after onslaught. We lost that one 4-0, but what a huge from the baby b’s.

Monday saw us face of against BOP, we lost 3-1. First goal of the tournament from a pc by Pip Dingwall. Sadly our goalie Rebeccas dad, Frank, passed away at 4.00 Monday morning. However, Bex bravely decided to stay with us and see out the rest of the week as that was what Frank would have wished.

Tuesday, we took on Tauranga(pool leaders); Lost valiantly 3-0. The afternoons game was against Horowhenua. The morning game shad sucked some energy but we managed to hang on WIN 2-1.
Cross overs saw us take on Otago WIN 1-0. Friday we played Taranaki had lost 3-0.

This team,predominantly year 7’s,and small in stature,showed they had big hearts and gave 100% in all their games. These girls will take on the responsibility of holding Waikato’s ranking next year with a Collier A tournament already under their belt.

Northland played North Harbour in the final and lost 2-0. We finished the tournament proudly in 20th place and were awarded the Hardship trophy.

Thank you girls a rewarding experience and a real pleasure to have coached you. Good luck for next year.