Soccer: Diamonds still sparkle despite flaws

A group of football rookies are reaping the benefits of diving head-first into the Northland women's premier championship.

The Tikipunga Diamonds are a squad of 18 who range in age from 14 to 51.

Their football experience ranges from nothing to four players having played some matches in the competition last year.

"Age is no barrier to anyone on the team," said Angela Perrin, Diamonds captain. "We went into the season knowing we would be beaten. We went into it to have fun and keep our fitness up."

Large scores were regularly posted against them and to date their only success was a 2-0 win over Bream Bay. But Perrin said they expected to lose most of their matches.

"We held top teams scoreless for the first 20 minutes. That's what we go on the field to do. No matter what we are losing by, we hold our heads high," she said.

The twice-weekly training and weekend match was a step up for most of them and their fitness had increased.

Player Nicki Ellis said it was tough adapting to the training and playing schedule but it had been worth it.

"The main reason [I started playing] was to get some my fitness up and get stronger. I'm a lot stronger and fitter," said the 22-year-old.

Family is a core part of the Diamonds, with three mother-daughter combinations playing.

Perrin said: "We are a family orientated team. Husbands, partners and kids are supportive of the time involved. We encourage players to bring kids to training and we have an area for kids where we train."

Post-match and training, the team often socialised.

Coach Stephen Townley was impressed by his team's progress: "They're doing incredibly well for a team that's just come together."