Surf Coast soccer stars win U/10 Shepparton Cup

THE world game is in good shape on the Surf Coast, with a team of young local superstars winning a prestigious state soccer competition.

Surf Coast FC came out victorious in the U/10 Shepparton Cup (Liga Division) against 23 soccer clubs from across the state.

The club was able to defeat Goulburn Valley in the decider, fighting back from being down 3-1 to then equalise at 3-3 and win 3-1 on penalties.

Led by captain Zak Felmingham (captain), the championship winning squad featured Albie Threadgold, Rapha Threadgold, Kai Fitzgerald, Ollie Fullerton, Connor Murphy, Xavier Grainger, Darko Lefevre, Patrick O’Malley, Malvin Kelly, Raffy Greer, Louis Robinson and Daniel Rogers.

Eleven of the players hit the score sheet during the tournament, with 27 goals sailing through the net in total for Surf Coast FC.

Coach Kavan Threadgold said he was incredibly proud of his teams’ efforts.

“The kids were just amazing across the whole weekend; I couldn’t be happier with them.

“To come back from 3-1 down in the final was phenomenal. It’s never over until the whistle blows, and they just kept going and got the result.”

Local clubs Barwon SC Victory and Geelong SC Lions also made it to the semi-finals of the competition, showcasing the strength of the game in the region.

“To have three local teams do well was just incredible and shows how fast the game is growing in our region,” Threadgold said.

“Adrian Leijer at Coerver has been key to the growth, he’s been incredible.

“Our players participate in his programs at Surf Coast training sessions and also outside of club sessions and they have definitely made a difference.

“We highly recommend it to any other club and local athletes.”