From disappearing pitches to sunshine, Melbourne served up another entertaining day of football for day two of the Girls' National Youth Championships.
Day two of the tournament saw Northern NSW Football sides walk away with one loss and a win.
The under-15s side had a disappointing start to the day, after they fell short to Victoria Blue 4-0. Early morning fog made visibility near impossible, but NNSWF adapted quickly and created early chances to showcase their attack. But Victoria Blue broke through in the first-half and went into the half-time break with the 1-0 lead.
Despite strong defensive efforts, Victoria Blue broke through NNSWF’s defensive line three more times on day two of the tournament, taking the points away from NNSWF.
NNSWF Talent Development Officer Brett Angell believed the girls were unlucky not to come away with a win.
"We were the stronger side throughout most of the match, and it's unfortunate the girls weren't able to take the lead," Angell said.
Conditions cleared for the under-16s, and they were victorious against Capital Football, securing a 5-1 victory. NNSWF headed into half-time behind 1-0, but the girls fought hard to come from behind and take the points.
Natalie O'Driscoll levelled the score early in the second half and quickly added to her tally for the week after netting her second goal. Alexis Collins continued to showcase her talents as an attacker after she assisted two goals and netted two of her own. Laura Knipe made her presence known by assisting with two goals, and Aaliyah Kilroy got her name on the scoresheet to take the side's final score to 5-1.
NNSWF Technical Director Ryan Doidge was extremely proud of the effort the under-15s and under-16s produced today.
"We talked about heading into the tournament and showcasing the talent we have within the northern NSW footprint, and the girls we have taken away to the Home of the Matildas have a level of responsibility to showcase the talent that's all across our region," Doidge said.
"The girls have absolutely been doing that, and I couldn't be prouder of them.
"I'm super proud of the players' efforts, and now it's important we recover well and go again tomorrow."
The under-15s finished the day second on the table and will face Queensland Silver on Friday for their day three matches. The under-16s finished the day second and will face NSW Metro on Friday in a top-of-the-table clash.
More on the National Youth Championships:
See the National Youth Championships 2024 Program HERE
View the Girls’ Tournament Draw HERE
Watch the National Youth Championships 2024 HERE
