Port Hill to be United’s big test

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

FOOTBALL by John Gillies

Port Hill represent the biggest test so far this year for Gisborne United in football’s Pacific Premiership.

These sides meet in what should be a thriller at Harry Barker Reserve tomorrow.

Port Hill are reigning champions and sit in third place with two wins. Only a one-goal loss to league leaders Maycenvale blots their copybook, while goal difference is all that separates them from second-placed Gisborne United.

Heavy Equipment Services Gisborne United have the maximum six points from two games, and have a game in hand on both Maycenvale and Port Hill.

Maycenvale top the table with nine points from three games.

Gisborne United player-coach Kieran Venema expects his side to be largely unchanged from the one that beat Havelock North Wanderers Seconds 6-0 last Saturday.

Jake Robertson, who came on as a second-half substitute in that game, had to be helped from the field after suffering a knee injury in a heavy tackle. Venema doubts Robertson will be fit to play for some time yet.

“The second team have a bye tomorrow so I’ll bring Matt Adams, Stu Cranswick and possibly one more into the squad,” Venema said.

“I think Port Hill have a pretty similar team to the side they had last year.

“I haven’t heard much about how they play. Our plan is to go out and play to our strengths.”

The pace and finishing power of United’s front three could play a big part in the outcome of the match tomorrow.

Sam Royston, Josh Adams and Josh Harris scored all six goals against Wanderers seconds. Port Hill will have to be well organised and alert to keep them at bay.

The United front three are backed up by the lively midfield trio of Corey Adams, James Bristow and, in a holding role, Dane Thompson.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better start to the season,” Venema said.

“I think this weekend will be the test.”

Asked what he was looking for from his team, Venema said he wanted to see them hold on to the ball and keep their short-passing game going.

“I want us to try to play the short-passing game as much as we can but still have that counter-attacking threat that we will always have,” Venema said.

Kick-off is at 2.30pm.