Cheers erupted and football boot studs hammered the ground as a Melchester Rebels player kicked the winning goal in a semifinals game.
It was one of the highlights of the seven-a-side football tournament in Dunedin yesterday.
About 100 teams, with most players aged 9 to 13, competed in the 45th Green Island Junior Football Club annual tournament at the Sunnyvale Sports Centre, in Green Island.
Clubs from around Dunedin, North Otago, Balclutha and Winton took part in the day.
Event co-ordinator Vicky McLeod said it was nice to return to the usual time slot after the tournament was pushed back to August last year due to Covid-19.
It was also nice to see the sun shining for the occasion, she said.
"It’s a stunning day."
Families, friends and even some pets gathered on the sidelines of about nine fields to show their support.
The 12th grade Melchester Rebels team, which won the 11th grade in last year’s tournament, just missed out on another victory this year.
After a thrilling end to their semifinal game against Caversham, the team was defeated by Dunedin Tech Lions in the final.
Coach Derek Morrison said he was "gutted", but pleased with how the team handled themselves both on and off the field.
"A superb tournament ... That is how it goes sometimes."
The Melchester Minions celebrated a massive achievement, winning their third tournament in row.
Coach Dan Paardekooper credited their new fulltime goal keeper for much of the success.
"I think he pretty much won it for us this week.
"Great wee team — full of a bunch of superstars really."
Coaching the Minions was easy, he said.
"They just love it so much."
Results were. —
8th Grade AM, Mosgiel Dynamite; 9th Grade AM, Green Island Thunder; 10th Grade AM, Roslyn Wakari Trotters; 12th Grade AM, Dunedin Tech Lions; 13th Grade AM, Maori Hill Gunners; 6th Grade PM, Mosgiel Tigers; 7th Grade PM, Mosgiel Sonics; 10th Grade PM, Balclutha Black; 11th Grade PM, Melchester Minions; 12th Grade PM, Awamoa Blue; 13th Grade PM, Dunedin Tech Maroon.
