Kempsey Saints first grade side snapped a four game losing streak, earning a hard fought 2-2 draw in a fiery clash with the Taree Wildcats.
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It was an even battle to start the match before an attacking surge from both sides saw three goals scored in a four minute period during the middle of the first half.
The Saints were the first to score, with the midfield combining well before the ball found its way to the back of the Taree net.
However, the Wildcats immediately responded with a goal of their own.
The goal scoring flourish was capped off by the Saints, who found their second to take the score to 2-1.
The game continued at a quick pace and it was an end-to-end battle with Saints playing at a high level.
“They played some outstanding football with the skill level of the young team on display,” Kempsey Saints reserve grade captain Kevin Sinclair said.
Saints were forced to substitute goalkeeper Jacob Lyttle who was injured after colliding with a Taree player.
MJ Sultana was thrown the keeper’s gloves and he was immediately called into action with Taree dominating the last period of the game.
It became a heated match with both teams lifting their intensity, physicality and they both became lippy.
Unfortunately for Saints, their defence was broken down and the Wildcats were able to level the scores.
Saints reserve grade side is leading the competition but they were forced to earn the maximum points the hard way, overcoming a 1-0 half-time deficit.
The side bagged two second half goals to earn the narrow 2-1 victory and remain on top.
Northern League Men’s Green couldn’t repeat their semi-final result from last year, going down to the Yowies 2-0.
The Men’s White side fought back from a two goal deficit against Port Saints to share the points.
In the Northern Ladies competition the Green Team had the bye while the White Ninjas are to play Wauchope in a rain delayed match.
There has seen some disruption across all grades with the recent wet weather.
Round 8 was completely cancelled and another rain affected, the club has numerous catch-up games in both junior and senior competitions.
Premier league has a catch-up game in both grades against Wauchope.
The two clubs are looking at scheduling the match for next week and both clubs are desperate for the competition points.
Saints are on the road against Port United this weekend and they will be hoping to repeat the effort of their 3-1 victory against United in round one.
