Page 90 - NUAFC EBook

trick against Clendon with Nelson's superb long chip in the
same match — Keith again against Birkenhead at home and
John McSporran's blast in the return at Birkenhead — Jeff
Tozer taking on the defense on many occasions to score.
On the debit side we had a multitude of chances that were
missed. They were so numerous it hardly bears to try and name
the offenders. One thing for sure, you can't win games unless
you score, and our lads seem to want to walk it into the net.
With
so many fine shots coming from our opponents it was only by the
grace of God and Jim Barry, that they didn't score.
As always happens, we lost some good players and
gained some. Before and during the year Phillip Hunter, Geoff
Harman, John Cyples, John Mohn and Keith Mackrell left for
new pastures. John Stewart, Chris Barakat, Mike Heappey and
Micky Liddle all had injuries bad enough to keep them out for
most of the season. Our acquisitions were Ian Pretswell, Graeme
Fleming, Chris Spray and Grant Carlson, while McSporran, after
a brief abduction, returned to the firm.
In most of the games I observed the refereeing was of
inferior quality, apart from a few excellent referees, whose
names I can't remember. Due mainly to our success in
reaching the World Cup, soccer has improved out of sight, but
the standard of referees has not kept up with this improvement.
The 2nd Division title was ours for the taking, but the
double loss to Birkenhead and draws with Whangarei and
Manukau were our nemesis. Those two losses were the only Ian and Julie Pretswell.
ones in League matches this season. Having taken three points
from Howick and shared the honours with Otara, the two top
teams. We are a naturally robust team with fighting spirit, but it The Fans
proved costly in penalties against us — Nacho's sending off
and subsequent suspension came at an inopportune time. John MAXINE WILLIAMS
McMouth and Johnny Mohn got their marching orders and A committed left-winger, able to side-step
there were a number of unnecessary bookings. opponents with verbal ease. At her most dangerous when
In all, during League matches, we were penalised defending against determined opposition.
381 times, 128 of these were for offside. Our domination was LYN EVERLEIGH
evident in the fact that we won 158 corners and only Originator of the now immortal phrase "Come on,
conceded 91. In League games only, the final statistics were: Narra!". A very skilful turn of phrase that has often left
played 18, won 10, drew 6, lost 2. Goals for 35, against 16. opponents floundering and confused. strong attacker.
Points 26. Our biggest win was away to Clendon 4-0. Our JOANNE GUY
worst loss was away to Birkenhead 1-3. Makes frequent lightning forays from defensive
We will be in the 1st Division in 1983. Let's hope that positions. A good team member whose positional play
we will lift our game and provide the entertainment our enables other players to run off her with a great deal of
loyal supporters deserve, particularly for Karrin, Bernice, success.
Liz, Maxine, Joanne, Joe and Mary-Anne who were there LIZ GORMAN
wet or fine. An effusive player who often intimidates the
Of all the Clubs around [even including Spurs] I referee with such time-honoured quotes as "Ref, really!" and
am proud to be a member of "The Green Machine". As "Oh! No!" whenever her team is penalised.
Churchill was moved to say -"Never has so much been owed BARBARA PLUME
by so many to so few". Amen! Will give totally committed support to her right
fullback. Has often been heard to call out, in the excitement
of a play "Down, Boy!".
KARRYN McLEOD
An effervescent mid-fielder who is always
prepared to receive passes from centre-backs and set up
counter-attacks.
MEGAN SMITH
Champion of the body-swerve. Has a deceptive
move when attacking that leaves the opponent floundering.
Likes to have a "lash" at goal.
MARY ANNE HENCKEL
The dark horse of the team. Has lethal striking
power, making her one of the most Dane-gerous carriers of
the ball in the side.
THERESA CARGO
Tall centre-half who leaves would-be tacklers
"clutching" at thin air. A quiet mover whose demeanour is
Megan and Mike Heappey.
deceptive. Powerful kicker.
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