Challenge Cup held for a year

GOAL-GRABBER: Gisborne United striker Josh Adams, here in action against Napier Marist, has scored four hat-tricks this season. Picture by Paul Rickard

Gisborne United defend the Pacific Premiership’s Challenge Cup against Taradale tomorrow, just over a year after United claimed it.

They beat Eskview in Hawke’s Bay on May 5 last year to win the cup, which is at stake in every home league game of the holders.

Taradale sit two places behind United but only one point back with a game in hand and a better goal difference.

Taradale were unbeaten until last Saturday, when they lost 4-3 at home to Maycenvale United. Both of those teams now have 12 points from a four-win/one-loss record.

Heavy Equipment Services United are second in the league, on 13 points, two behind Gisborne Vehicle Testing Thistle, who are credited with a 3-0 win this weekend from the default by Hastings Hibernian.

With only six points covering the teams from first to sixth, every point is vital. United and Havelock North Wanderers Reserves are level on points, but United have the edge on goal difference.

With the title race so crowded, United player-coach Corey Adams is pleased he has a full squad at his disposal for the game against Taradale at Harry Barker Reserve at 2.30pm tomorrow.

He will look for a large turnout of United faithful to cheer the team home.

“We always have very good home support, which makes it difficult for away sides,” Adams said.

Both Adams and younger brother Josh have been scoring freely in their past few matches.

Josh Adams has scored 14 goals in six premiership games to go with a hat-trick in the first round of the Federation Cup — a season tally of 17. He has scored four hat-tricks this season.

Taradale have picked up some new players and are doing much better in the league this year.

Last season, United won the corresponding fixture at Harry Barker Reserve 8-1. Away from home they found it tougher, but still won 5-4.

Corey Adams is quietly confident.

“If we stick to our game plan and play our style of football, the result will come.”