Open Boys Knockout Soccer – Round 1

On Tuesday 18 June, NIHS played host to Round 1 of the Open Boys Statewide Knockout Competition, competing against both Gleeson College and SEDA College for progression into Round 2 of the competition.

NIHS vs SEDA

Up against a developing sporting powerhouse in SEDA, the team knew they would need to bring their best from the start to finish against in order to achieve their desired result. In what was a cagey first half, both teams looked saw minimal opportunity to score as they both looked to settle into proceedings.

Things livened up in the second stanza however, as both teams looked to find the back of the net. Massimo stepped up to take his opportunities in front of goals, coolly putting two goals past the SEDA goal keeper to secure a 2-0 win putting the boys in a good position heading into the remainder of the day.

NIHS vs Gleeson College

With SEDA defeating Gleeson 3-0 in the second match of the day, it was essential that NIHS secured a win in the final match to avoid a complicated ending to the progression scenario.

It was Gleeson however who burst out of the blocks to take the early lead after an excellent finish. To their credit, NIHS stuck to their task to work their way back into the game and were rewarded through another classy finish from Massimo shortly before half time to even the ledger.

Returning from some inspirational motivation from coach Chris Bou-Nehme and captains Charlie and Ethan, the team raised the intensity in front of a large crowd of student spectators.

Super sub, Anan surged into the penalty box to find himself on the end of a neat cut back to put Norwood ahead 2-1 before Ethan all but put the game to bed by adding a third to help clinch the victory and send Norwood through to Round 2 of the competition.

The team will now look forward to a trip to Henley High in Term 2 to tackle last year’s champions in Round 2 of the competition.

A big thankyou to all who assisted in making the day a success.

Matt Mauriello
Sport Manager