Woonona victorious over Picton Rangers

A sunny Sunday afternoon at Wetherall Park provided the setting for a 1-0 victory by Woonona in its Fraternity Club Cup match against the newly promoted Picton Rangers.

With a good sized crowd in attendance, round one match and saw a game which was aggressive and entertaining.

Woonona dominated the first half with good passing and numerous shots at goal all of which were successfully saved by Picton Ranger goalkeeper Brad Jones.

Woonona’s Trent Worthington in particular produced some strong passes and powerful goal attempts.

Picton Rangers’ main chance to score in the first half came from a foul which resulted in a free kick in front of the goal which Woonona goalkeeper Brad Jardine had no trouble saving.

Woonona had two more chances to score with Cameron Banks taking the shots in front of the goal but they were unsuccessful.

Valentino Merxhushi provided Woonona with its best chance of scoring in the first half but unfortunately his attempt hit the goal post.

Picton Ranger’s keeper, Brad Jones, was instrumental in keeping Woonona at bay despite wave after wave of powerful attempts.

After an entertaining first half with Woonona being the stronger team and having numerous opportunities to score, both teams went into half time with the score at nil all.

Picton Rangers began the second half strongly, coming close to scoring but Woonona’s keeper stayed strong.

Woonona came back into the game with a string of quick passing and strong counter attacks.

Woonona’s Brendan Pattman and Trent Worthington both had strong games and kept Picton Rangers on their toes.

In the 61^st minute, the deadlock was finally broken with Woonona’s Valentino Merxhushi putting the ball into the back of the net which delighted the team’s fans.

Picton Rangers played stronger in the second half and had a few more attempts at goal in the last ten minutes but were unable to put the ball past the keeper.

Their final attempt by Mitchell Holl was one of their best chances to score.

The final score remained Woonona 1- Picton Rangers 0.

Woonona had a well-deserved win and was the stronger side despite the determined effort of Picton Rangers.

Picton Rangers next match is against Cringila Lions while Woonona, after their strong performance, will have more confidence for their round two match against Shell Cove.

Photo and story by Emma Gilly