In Northland football terms, starting your New Zealand Secondary Schools career with a goal against the national under-17 team isn't bad.
Which is exactly how talented Northland footballer Daniel Ridgley started out before boarding a plane to England for a five test-match tour. The 18-year-old Ridgley scored his side's lonegoal in their 2-1 loss against the New Zealand under-17 side two weeks ago.
Ridgley, formerly of Kamo, scored for the secondary schools' side from a free kick, Ronaldo style, which he curved around a wall of defenders and deflected off an opposition player into the goal.
The secondary schools' team played an exciting and attacking brand of football, but eventually couldn't stop the better polished combinations of the under-17 side - which is understandable considering they have spent more time together as a team rather than the secondary schools' side who assembled on the morning of the game.
The match doubled as a pre-tour match for the secondary schools' team and a final hit-out for the under-17 side as they prepare to begin their World Cup qualifying campaign.
Ridgley's side's first test is against Scotland in Glasgow this morning. Further tests are to be played against Ireland, Northern Ireland, Wales and England.
Ridgley's parents will fly out this Sunday to follow the tour.
