Higgins Central Men in the weekend match against Te Awa in Napier. Photo / Kimberley Booth
In a grudge match to end all grudge matches, the Central Hotshots Men faced Napier Tech for the second weekend in a row. This time, it was a playoff for a spot in the gold medal game.
Sitting at the top of the table, Napier Tech came out strong, throwing
everything at Central’s defence. But goalkeeper Ross Fraser made crucial saves, rattling Tech’s confidence. The turning point came when Central earned a penalty corner, and coach Sam Wilson, rarely on the attack, seized the moment, driving the ball into the goal for the lead.
Despite Tech’s relentless attempts, Central’s defence held firm, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory with Sam Wilson earning Player of the Day honours. The Hotshots Men now prepare for the gold medal match against Bay Independent 3.
The Unichem Prem Women stepped onto the field against Akina Rovers Jones with determination and energy that paid off early. A perfectly executed penalty corner by Ange Scott gave Central an early lead. But Akina wouldn’t let them walk away with an easy win, answering back with their own goal before halftime.
The second half saw both teams in a fierce battle, with chances coming and going for each side. In the end, Akina broke through with a late goal, snatching the win 2-1. Central’s women can hold their heads high, knowing they left everything on the field. Emma Harker earned the Player of the Day for her relentless effort.
