Soccer: Underdogs fight hard

Stratford's senior football team knew they were in for a challenge when they headed to Palmerston North to face Appmed Port Hill United FC in the second round of the Federation Cup.

Stratford were named the underdogs of the game, with the team currently sitting 5th in the Taranaki 2nd league, while Port Hill United play in the Pacific Premiership, 5 leagues above Stratford.

The Stratford players knew it was going to be a fast paced game. They knew their opponents were going to be skilled. And they knew it was probably the hardest game they would face this season.

The first half kicked off with a flurry and Stratford were on the back foot for most of the first twenty minutes in which Port Hill United score their first two goals. But then things turned a little and Stratford started to read the game, utilizing their midfield and forwards to better purpose.

On several occasions striking runs by Brad Townsend and Ryan O'Sullivan had Port Hill on the back foot with some opportunities coming within inches of scoring. Near the end of the first half mid-fielder Dylan Blair got off Stratford's best shot of the match but it was straight to the keeper who secured it.

First half ended 2-0 to Port Hill.

Second half kicked off with Stratford believing they were in with a chance however a third goal to Port Hill after 15 minutes seemed to knock them back just a bit too far.

From there on in it was a defensive scramble to keep Port hill out with their pace, skill and fitness showing through.

The back line, captained by Stu Hawkless, was constantly challenged but in the end only a further three went in the net. The score would have been higher if not for some incredible work from keeper James Burroughs whose frantic acrobatics denied Port Hills' strikers over and over.

Final score 6:0 to Port Hill but Stratford can be proud of their first half effort in attack and their defensive stand in the second. Stratford has another Cup game this Saturday playing Peringa United Masters in the Nimmos Cup at Peringa Park at 12:45.