Hawks U12 Preliminary Cup Round Sunday 21^st March 

The Adelaide Hills Hawks U12 team kicked off their 2010 season with a knockout Preliminary Cup Round on Sunday. With the U12 age group marking the start of the competitive league in the JPL (Junior Premier League), the Hawks were well prepared for the pressure. The Preliminary Cup Round placed them in a battle with Port Lion Pirates at Oakbank Area School.

The Hawks started well claiming greater possession of the ball and playing their usual passing game they had been practicing at training. Although Hawks looked the better team on the park, Port Pirates were able to score first. The goal came about 10 minutes before the break when a corner kick rebounded straight back to the Port Pirate corner taker for a well executed shot on goal.

The Hawks U12s continued with the same determination in the second half, again displaying the better football and were finally rewarded 5 minutes before full time. A free kick superbly taken by Kimi Lopes-Doyle just outside the 18 yard box could only be parried away by the opposition keeper straight into the path of Hawks player Riley Bucco, who volleyed it into the back of the net. 

With the game drawn 1 – 1 at the final whistle, the Referee called for extra time. Both teams battled on in the hot conditions with the Hawks creating a number of chances. The spectators gasped and held their breath on many close occasions but as is sometimes the case in sport, the Hawks just couldn’t find the back of the net. 

As with the A-League Final the night before, the completion of 10 minutes each way saw the Referee signal for a Penalty shoot out to decide the match. 

Coach Robbie Bucco reassured his team and instructed his five penalty takers to pick a spot on goal before having a crack. Hawks goalkeeper, Mitch Taylor, showed no sign of nerves and on two occasions was able to pull off spectacular saves when he dived to his left to knock the ball out of danger. After some nail biting shots and saves the Port Lion Pirates were declared the winners 2 – 1 on penalties and will advance to the next Cup Round.

With the skills displayed during this opening round, the Hawks U12 supporters are in for an exciting 2010 season. Hawks Coach Robbie Bucco was pleased with his team’s style of play and will look forward to meeting the Pirates again when both teams compete in the A Grade League Rounds in 2010.
Kellie Bucco