It was perfect conditions as the Emerging Socceroos Championships kicked off in Bundorra, Victoria on Sunday.
Before the tournament began, the opening ceremony took place at the Home of the Matildas where the team captains and vice-captains were presented with their armbands.
Northern NSW start the tournament strong
Day one of the tournament saw NNSWF’s under-15s walk away with a win, while the under-16s finished the day with a draw.
The under-15s started their tournament with a 2-0 victory over Football NSW Country.
NNSWF came out of the gates firing as they looked to kick-start their tournament with three points.
They did not have to wait long to get their first goal of the tournament when Levi van Haren was brought down just outside the box and awarded a free kick.
Van Haren stepped up and sailed the ball over a sea of players, bouncing in front of the NSW country goalkeeper and over his head into the back of the net.
The under-15s continued to press in the front third but were unable to extend their lead as they went into half-time leading 1-0.
NNSWF doubled their lead eight minutes into the second half through Joel Barton.
Luca Ciarrocchi sliced the ball to Barton, who wasted no time tapping the ball into the goal.
In the final moments of the game, NSW Country looked to claw one back, but an outstanding save by Bryn Wells denied them the opportunity and secured his side all three points.
The under-16s continued the afternoon of clean sheets as they had a 0-0 draw with NSW Country in their opening match of the tournament.
NNSWF showcased their dominant defence as NSW Country came out with determination to find the back of the net.
NSW Country looked to have opened the scoring in the 20th minute but was ruled offside and sent the teams into half-time all locked up 0-0.
The under-16s entered the second half set on securing all three points. They controlled the majority of possession for the final 30 minutes as they looked to score their first goal of the tournament.
Attempt after attempt continued to be denied by the NSW country goalkeeper and the two sides could not be separated when the final whistle blew.
Northern NSW Football Technical Director Ryan Doidge was pleased with the efforts from the two sides in their opening matches.
“Overall, a solid start by our players who showed great moments on day one when it’s always a nervous start,” Doidge said.
“The under-15s showed some good creative moments and scored two well-deserved goals.
“The under-16s group, whilst maybe frustrated with the overall result, showed real determination and enthusiasm and gave themselves a great foundation to build on.
“I’m looking forward to tomorrow's fixtures and there’s a positive feeling in the camp. The coaches are working hard to create a great environment for our players to showcase themselves in front of national team staff.
“I’m wishing both teams the best of luck for two tough games tomorrow.”
More on the Emerging Socceroos Championships
CLICK HERE to view the Official Emerging Socceroos Championships Digital Program with Fixtures
CLICK HERE to watch* the Emerging Socceroos Championships thanks to Kommunity TV (*subscription required)
CLICK HERE to view the live tables and results
