BACK ON TOP
AGAIN.
A 1-0
victory at a windswept Murrays Bay saw Mount Albert Grammar
School return to the top of the Auckland Secondary Schools
Premier League.
The goal came courtesy of striker Mark Withers in the 66th
minute. He received a throw in inside the penalty area from
left back Skye Parmenter and spun off the Rangitoto
defender's shoulder and beat goalkeeper Andrew Van Stipriaan
from the narrowest of angles.
The solitary goal was enough to win the game in conditions
that at times could only be described as testing. It puts
MAGS two points ahead of their nearest rival Auckland Grammar
School, half way through the competition.
The torrid conditions did not help either the football or
the job of referee Mr Peter Stacey, who, under the
circumstances did an extremely good job.
In the first half MAGS dominated territory and also ball
possession. They also had their chances to go ahead. In the
33rd minute Andrew Milne cut in from the right flank, but his
shot went wide from eight yards out. Three minutes later
captain Jonathan Raj had a good opportunity from a Pomare Te
Anau corner, but his header was easily gathered by Van
Stipiaan.
Then a most unlikely looking free kick from the half way
line from stopper Adam Cowen deceived both sets of players;
his pass hit the foot of the post. It was to be the last
major action of the half
Half time: MAGS 0 Rangitoto College 0
The MAGS domination of the ball continued throughout the
second half, but no goals resulted from their domination.
Mark Withers no doubt brought a sigh of relief to the MAGS
bench when he converted in the 66th minute. Midfield player
Zane Sole had the opportunity to put the result beyond doubt
when a penalty was awarded in the 69th minute after flying
winger Pomare Te Anau was crudely tripped inside the
Rangitoto penalty area. Sole's kick was well saved by Van
Stipiaan to keep his team well and truly in the game.
Both teams brought on their substitutes and when the referee
blew for full time the MAGS team looked more relieved.
MAGS coach Kevin Fallon said, "There were obvious plusses
out there today; a win, a clean sheet, three points and back
on top of the table. We also have plenty to work on,
particularly with our top third play."
Team:
George, Elder, Cowen, Raj (c)
Parmenter, Milne, Sole, Killip. Te Anau, Lucas and Withers.
Substitutes
Pavic for Withers 76th minute
Poi for Killip 78th minute
Porter for Parmenter 81st minute
Referee:
Mr. Peter Stacey
Cautions: Nil
Dismissals: Nil
Goalscorer Mark Wthers 66th minute
Final Score: Win to Mount Albert Grammar School 1 -
Man of the Match Pomare Te Anau
