The U-18 NZ Kahus and Australia Breeze dispensed with their planned fixture today, to instead play a development match with mixed teams.
One side wore their usual uniforms, with the other wearing a training uniform. The teams were split evenly between the two squads.
Kahus coach Mick Coultard was pleased to give his players the opportunity to learn through playing alongside Breeze players.
“The match was such a great learning curve for the Kahus, it was great to get them involved with such highly skilled and experienced players.”
Assistant coach Mike Gregson agreed, assessing the Kahus game sense and tactical understanding as “much improved.”
Breeze coach Michelle Cowan was also satisfied with the performance of her players.
“It was great to see the continued effort and great intensity of all our players, but in particular Tayla Harris, Alexandra Tegg and Karly Tapner.”
Coultard had particular praise for a group of players, who “were awesome all day.” Claudia McMeekin, Hope Schuster, Firth Bidois, Tayla Cross and Marie Aleni were all recognised as strong performers.
The match was played in a great spirit, reflecting the ambassadorial nature of the tour. Part of the mission of the Australian Youth Girls tour is to develop New Zealand footballers.
The final match of the series will be in Whangarei, on Wednesday 9/10/13. The format will return to NZ Kahus vs Australia Breeze.
Photography by Dania Herdman
