Student News Media: Soccer field of dreams for Abbotsford Wolves, by Eva Rinaldi

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Soccer field of dreams for Abbotsford Wolves, by Eva Rinaldi

The overcast day in Sydney held high hopes for the Abbotsford Wolves soccer team.

It was a highly anticipated match, especially for one young rising soccer stars.

For the uninitiated, the Abbotsford Wolves are one of Australia's finest young sports teams of any code.

Today the Wolves took on the unpredictable and talented Hurlstone Park Wanderers at Ewan Park, Hurlston Park.

The referee blows the whistle and straight away its the Wolves on the front foot with the likes of Chris Hart, Ricky Morsello and number 7 Joseph Rinaldi showing their usually boundless energy, heart and guts.

The muddy patch only slightly slowed down the action, and one may argue made the game an even more entertaining spectacular for the parents and friends who braved the miserable weather to show up in support.

The first half goals were scored by Hart, Oli Flack, Rinaldi and Morsello. At half time the respective coaches reved up their teams, with coach Keith Walker saying nothing but high praise for his den of Wolves.

The second half of play was almost as quick as the first, with Wolves showing little signs of slowing. The Wanders fought back and were able to finally score a goal, with the match being more even than the score reflected at that point.

The weather might have been muggy, but that could do nothing to rid the winners of their smiles. Even the loosing team seemed to enjoy the game, and its important to remember that participation is what counts - at least at this level, but don't tell that to the coaches of both teams. We all won today for being part of a most enjoyable and exciting match.

Birthday boy Rinaldi can't wipe the smile off his face, with pats and words of appreciation from his fellow team mates. Yes, it appears he got his ultimate birthday present, as did his teammates.

The Wolves play Leichhardt Tigers next week at Campbell Park, Abbotsford. Kick off at 10am.

Abbotford Wolves: 5 def Hurlstone Park: 1