Football: Rotorua ease to victory in Pullar Cup

FILE

The Rotorua United senior men's team may be struggling to stay alive in the Federation Cup but the women's team is thriving.

Rotorua United won the Pullar Cup Senior Women's Knockout Tournament in Whakatane.

This was the first time the long-established Pullar Cup was run as a one-day tournament.

United swept aside their opposition in emphatic style, scoring 25 goals and conceding none in their three matches.

United did not waste any time getting into their stride and overcame Plains Rangers with some ease, winning 16-0 in their first round match. The scorers for United in this match were Smith (five), McManus (three), Heuvel (three), Cogger (two), P. Satchell and Sandford.

This win put Rotorua into a semifinal against Papamoa. In confident mood and with another fine display of free flowing, attacking football, United overcame their opponents 6-0, setting up a final against hosts Whakatane Town. Scorers for United in the semifinal were Smith (two), Bennett (two), P. Satchell and Talbot.

United absorbed early pressure from a Whakatane side trying to impress their vocal home support. United soon settled into their quick passing game and eventually dominated, winning 3-0. Scorers for United were Heuvel (two) Smith.

It was an excellent day for United, with all 16 players playing a role in the three victories.

With the season's first silverware in the trophy cabinet, United turn their attention to Sunday's important league fixture at Kawerau. A draw would see United secure the league title.