Gunnedah FC locked down third position in reserve grade with a convincing win over Kootingal on Sautrday.
The scoring opened early with a classy goal from Rowan Keeler. Working into a one-on-one position with the keeper, Keeler calmly put the ball into the bottom corner.
This brilliance was followed by a stroke of luck with defensive confusion leading to a second goal for FC off the boot of Adam McGuirk. A solid defensive game from Auld, Pengilly, Manley and White meant that the Kootingal strikers had very few chances and class keeping from Alex Boyd resulted in yet another clean sheet for the young keeper.
The second half was dominated by FC in the midfield with both centres, Nathan Hobart and Nathan McDonald, scoring to round out the game 4-0.
Jayden Thomas and Miles Conn also had very strong games leading the team forward with their energy and commitment.
In first grade, Gunnedah FC played out a 2-all draw.
With five first graders missing, coach Andy Cygan said the young players filling the void played admirably.
“Adam McGuirk, played all over in first grade for us,” Cygan said.
“He had a solid game and Jayden Thomas came on as a sub and helped us claw back a point. He’s been outstanding all year.
“And another young fella, Miles Conn. He’s probably the most improved player this year.”
FC had gone up 1-0 through the boot of Rob Pryor before Kootingal scored two goals through dot shots.
Zac Crowhurst then scored with 15 minutes to go to give FC a point.
Gunnedah FC will take on Gunnedah United Hawks in the final game of the season before finals start.
Regardless of how the rest of the year plays out, Cygan was happy with the efforts of both sides.
“Reserve grade, with them putting players into first grade, and to win 4-0 was great,” Cygan said.
“They’ll have a good shout in the finals but we said the other night, we’ve achieved what we aimed for. For first grade to take the minor premiership and reserve grade to play finals.
“Anything from here is a bonus.”
