Ngongotaha AFC happy with win

WIN: Ngongotaha AFC celebrate a goal over the Matamata Swifts on Saturday. Ngongotaha won 6 - 1. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER

Ngongotaha AFC captain Dave Haua says the team are "ecstatic" following their 6 - 1 win over the Matamata Swifts in the WaiBOP Premiership at Stembridge Rd on Saturday.

"We knew it was going to a tough challenge, we just had to try and grind it out, the guys are ecstatic", he said.

Despite the final score line, coach Shane Davis said the team made it hard for themselves in the first half, with the Swifts dominating.

Haua agreed with his coach.

"We were lucky to have a score of that margin at half-time. It was a wake-up call."

Things changed around after the break and Davis said the team was more focused.

Haua said Ngongotaha's Conor Hinz and Eamon O'Donoghue deserved mention for their performances.

"They were outstanding and consistent."

Ngongotaha's Jake Davis got the player of the day award, and Mitch Millar scored three goals, two penalties and a goal in the second half. This brings Millar's total to 42 this season, which looked to be a new league record.

Ngongotaha AFC are top of the table, unbeaten with 17 wins and one draw.

However, Haua said the team wasn't taking anything for granted.

The team have four games remaining and next weekend are playing second-placed Cambridge FC, in Cambridge.

Haua said if the team won or drew next week they would win the league on points, with three remaining games to play.

They were looking forward to the game, said Haua.

"It would be good to get the points from Cambridge on their home ground.

"Everything is falling into place this season."

Last season Ngongotaha came second place in the league by one point.

Haua said this had actually helped set up the team this year as it gave the team experience, especially for the younger players.

Davis said the key point taken from Saturday's game was how the team reacted.

"We showed a lot of character. From playing poorly in the first half to showing where their faults were and taking chances in the second. It's pleasing."