United in cup semifinal loss

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FOOTBALL

A FAST, fit Taradale team beat Gisborne United 7-1 in a Women’s Federation Cup semifinal at Harry Barker Reserve on Sunday.

Heavy Equipment Services United got off to a good start, Kayley Knight reacting smartly when a defender headed a United corner off the line. The ball went straight to Knight, who headed it into the top of the net between the goalkeeper and defender.

But Taradale were not to be denied. A young, well-drilled side, they didn’t waste many passes and had dangerous strikers who hit the ball with power and accuracy.

The longer they stay together, the better they will get.

Taradale were soon in front, and never looked like being headed. They deserved to make the final, where they will play Massey, who beat Feilding in the other semifinal.

United never gave up the fight, though.

Taryn Walford was their player of the day. She worked hard throughout, in a busy defensive trio with Becca Peach and Rubi Perano.

In the midfield, Karen McDonald never stopped running, and played on when cramp set in during the second half.

Up front, Amber Church — carrying a knee injury from the week before — never stopped chasing and battling for anything that came her way.

The United girls won the Gisborne women’s league this year and have one game left — the Judy O’Rourke Memorial Cup final against Gisborne Laundry Services Riverina on Harry Barker Reserve No.1 at 10.30am on Sunday.