Coach: Martin Van Elst (0421 108 199)
Manager: Richard Holt (9569 4954)
Training day: Monday
Training time: 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Training location: Duncan McKinnon Reserve

2. Danny (Boy)
3. Jade (The Scorpion)
4. Vasili (Big V)
5. Curtis (Superfly)
6. Jiah (The Thinker)
7. Darcy (Night Train)
8. David (The Cheetah)
9. Antony (The Imperial)
10. Josh (The Knife)
11. Eddie (Van Halen)
12. Daniel (The Gentle Giant)
13. Anthony (Antz)
14. Jordan (The River)
15. Patrick (Dangerman)
16. Adam (The Sharpie)

The year 2007 will go down as the most memorable in my time as manager of the Kestrels. After being in the precarious position of not having a coach with 3 weeks to go before the season kicked off, I was not optimistic about the team’s chances this year. And with the state of the grounds, it was conceivable that there would not be a season at all! To the great credit of the Glen Eira J.S.C. training grounds were made available and a coach was found. As luck would have it the choice was inspired. Martin Van Elst is an elite indoor soccer coach who had moved into the area and was passionate about all things soccer and also about passing on his great knowledge to junior players. Although he was unknown to anyone at the club, Martin quickly gained the confidence of the players and parents and myself with his meticulous preparation and his personable manner. We welcomed 5 new players to the team and took to the field. After some early success we received a wake-up call with a 6-0 drubbing at the hands of Monash which prompted some deep thinking amongst the coaching staff.

Martin decided to give ourselves the best chance of success by re-organising the team into the subgroups of Defenders, Midfielders and Strikers. We appointed leaders of each group and went about training the players in their roles. The result was that by seasons end, we had only lost one more game (Monash 3-1) since our re-shuffle. Overall, we won 11 games, drew 4 and lost 3. This was achieved with all the players receiving equal bench time and totally within the Glen Eira philosophy of fun, family and football. We were able to reach our goal of a top 4 finish (actually finishing 3rd), whilst along the way create a lot of enjoyment and excitement. The parents and kids all got along really well and we finished the season with a parent vs kids game and a B.B.Q. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as manager this year, highlighted by the co-operation of the parents, the enthusiasm of the players, and the involvement of Martin. To round off a great year we already have a commitment from Martin that he will be back next year to coach the Kestrels. I’m already looking forward to season 2008.

Richard Holt - Manager, Kestrels
(posted 20:30 07 October 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 18: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs Whitehorse – Sunday 09 September 2007

Score: Kestrels 2, Whitehorse 0

After the euphoria of last week’s win over Bulleen, the Kestrels were a bit lacklustre in this, their final game. Many of the sides have improved over the course of the season and Whitehorse was definitely one of them. Whitehorse created many anxious moments in the first half, but like many times this season, it was Curtis who was able to get the Kestrels out of trouble with his work in the backline. Ably assisted by Anthony and Darcy who stood in again as goalkeeper it was our backline who keep us in the game until halftime. Kestrels 0, Whitehorse 0.

After the break, Eddie was substituted on and and the Kestrels already looked more dangerous. David got the first break with his nimble runs down the wings and scored. Then Eddie put the game away with his goal. Whitehorse had the wind taken from their sails, and the Kestrels finished the year with another win. 

Goalscorers: David 1, Eddie 1

Richard Holt - Kestrels, Manager
(posted 20:30 07 October 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 17: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs FC Bulleen – Sunday 02 September 2007

Score:  Kestrels 4, Bulleen 0

The stakes were high coming into this game. Having managed to move up to 4th position with our win over Richmond, we were keen to keep this spot on the ladder. Bulleen at home are an imposing side. We were playing on their main pitch and this gave the game extra presence. Glen Eira had just the 11 players in the side - no subs. Nevertheless, Glen Eira had every reason to be confident and started the game with great purpose. Josh and David were causing all sorts of trouble for Bulleen from the start and Vasili slotted back into the side wonderfully after a few weeks overseas. Jade was involved in many attacking moves and our backline was holding firm, Goalkeeper Darcy in particular made some fine saves and Anthony, again showed great poise coming out of the backline. With all the momentum in our favour Glen Eira were rewarded when Eddie’s marvellous cross from the corner eluded the Bulleen goalkeeper and silenced the home crowd. But, there was more to come. Eddie struck again just before halftime and the Kestrels went to the halftime break with a very handy lead. Glen Eira 2, Bulleen 0.

The Kestrels were in a winning position, but Bulleen attacked hard in the first 5 minutes. Josh was now in goals and put his body on the line with some super saves. On the counter attack, Midfielder Jordan got a break on the Bulleen defenders and slotted a great goal on the run. This was becoming a rout. The magic continued when minutes later Eddie slammed the ball high into the air. What was he doing, we wondered? The ball miraculously found the back of the net high above their goalie’s arms. A goal! The Glen Eira crowd went mad! Bulleen were stunned. Hat-trick to Eddie! Glen Eira held out for the next 10 minutes controlling the play until the final whistle. Glen Eira 4, Bulleen 0.

Afterwards, Coach Martin said that this was the sort of game he always thought the Kestrels were capable of playing. Seamless passing at times that was wonderful to watch. Controlled play, looking for options, but taking on players when the situation demanded. Needless to say he was very proud of the boys today, as were all the parents.

Goalscorers: Eddie 3, Jordan 1

Richard Holt - Kestrels, Manager
(posted 20:30 07 October 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 16: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs Richmond - Sunday 29 August 2007

Score: Kestrels 1, Richmond 0

High anticipation was in the air as we prepared to take on one of our nemesis teams – Richmond. After towelling us up 3-0 in our last encounter, we were keen to make amends and show ourselves and our supporters how we can REALLY play. Unfortunately, before the game, we got some bad news as we heard that our livewire midfielder Antony had broken his arm during the week, and with 2 other players away, that left the Kestrels going into the game with only one substitute. This was a game we HAD to win – not draw – or lose – to keep our final 4 hopes alive in the tough top half of the group ladder. Fortunately, the Kestrels, with ample time to prepare, thanks to an early arrival by all players were looking sharp. David, also struggling with an illness, gave us some early inspiration with his tireless running and nimble footwork. Our defence withstood lots of early pressure, Curtis directing traffic, Darcy fearlessly meeting every ball, Jordan outstanding in goal, Patrick putting his body on the line, Anthony impressed with his footwork and Adam consistently ran down their strikers. Eddie, with his long strides, put daylight between himself and the opposition, again set up our attack. But it was Josh who set the place alight when he sprinted into goal to lob a shot to the net with 4 defenders hanging off him. A gallant David had to come off with fatigue and Danny did well substituting up forward. Halftime: Kestrels 1, Richmond 0.

After halftime, we knew Richmond would be filthy. As they frantically reshuffled their team looking for the equaliser, the Kestrels continued their fine work of the first half. Our defence worked overtime as they soaked up the early pressure. Eddie, running tirelessly, continued to run their defence ragged causing Richmond massive headaches. The remaining minutes were tense as Richmond pushed forward to find a goal. Usual striker Jiah foiled a certain goal with some timely defence, and Curtis made a few crucial saves as well. Jordan set up some counter attacks and Jade and Danny were unlucky to miss scoring opportunities. But in the end, the final whistle was the sweetest sound ever heard. The Kestrels were naturally jubilant and catapulted themselves into 4th position.
 
Goalscorers: Josh 1

Richard Holt - Kestrels, Manager
(posted 21:30 05 September 2007 by Richard Holt)


Round 15: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs Kingston City – Sunday 12 August 2007

Score: Kestrels 9, Kingston City 0

In sub-freezing and rain and hail conditions, the Kestrels this week turned our attention to Kingston City. The hapless Kingston City struggled to field a side as their team had been decimated by the flu, but bravely took the field with 8 men to the Kestrels 11, gracefully declining our offer of one of our own players. As could be predicted the Kestrels went on a scoring fest, but only after 10 minutes of solid resistance from Kingston and even a few tense moments when it looked like they would score. Martin used the game as an opportunity for our usual defenders to get amongst the goalscorers and we tried to get everyone who hadn’t scored a goal this year to bag one. Curtis, desperate to score, got around a couple of their players for a clever goal and the monkey was off his back! Then in quick succession David, Eddie, Jordan and Darcy added to their tallies for the season. Half-Time Kestrels 5. Kingston 0.

Meanwhile, Anthony was becoming more and more determined to score for himself. After some frustrating chances missed in the first half, he suddenly came alive. I, 2 and 3 goals came for him in the second half – a hatrick! and the erstwhile defender was suddenly an attacking machine! And at last Adam got himself a goal, after generating so much run in the midfleld all year – well done! That left only Daniel to get himself on the board. But, after 3 genuine chances he just missed out. Don’t worry Daniel – you’ll get one one day. Fulltime: Kestrels 9. Kingston 0.
 
Goalscorers:
1st Half: David 1, Eddie 1, Curtis 1, Darcy 1, Jordan 1.
2nd Half: Anthony 3, Adam 1

Richard Holt  - Kestrels, Manager
(posted 21:30 05 September 2007 by Richard Holt)


Round 14: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs Ashburton - Sunday 5 August 2007

Score: Kestrels 3, Ashburton 1

Coming off a gallant performance against Monash City, this week the Kestrels faced off against Ashburton at Mackie Road. The Kestrels started really well, with midfielder Jordan, the dominant player on the pitch, looking particularly dangerous. Ashburton assigned a marker to him, but he still managed to score 2 goals before halftime. Some fluid play was produced by midfielders Antony and Jade, whilst our defenders, in particular Patrick and Daniel, were continuing to improve in all aspects of their games. Halftime: Kestrels 2, Ashburton 0.

In the second half, Eddie came on and made an immediate impact, consistently setting up shots on goal and putting constant pressure on the besieged Ashburton defence. Finally, Eddie took matters into his own hands and scored himself. Ashburton got one back, but the Kestrels never looked like losing today. Overall, the team continues to improve; the team is able to rely on more and more players to do their job every week. A great result! We bettered our 1-0 defeat of Ashburton in Round 5 with a final scoreline of: Kestrels 3, Ashburton 1. Keep up the great work guys – you are reaping the rewards of your commitment.

Goalscorers: Jordan 2, Eddie 1

Richard Holt - Kestrels, Manager
(posted 21:30 05 September 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 13. Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs Monash City – Sunday 29 July 2007

Score: Kestrels 1, Monash City 3

Mid-week we got the call, the Council was shifting our home game to Mackie Road, and we needed to be at the ground 8.00am to set up everything. It was a challenge everyone responded to magnificently. And, it actually had a really beneficial effect on the team as well. With ample time to warm-up, settle down and prepare, the Kestrels hit the ground running. Monash City humiliated us last time, and this game would be a great testament to how much we had improved – that was the theory anyway. The game kicked-off, and, we were under pressure - but handling it! Good rebound from Darcy, Curtis, Jordan, Anthony & Patrick in defence, good linking play between Josh, Antony and Adam, through to Jiah, David and Danny provided pleasing passages of play. Monash defences were vice-like and our forward thrusts were few but we were holding our own. Only a deflected goal (own goal?) gave Monash any joy in the first half. Jordan was magnificent in goal, his stunning saves keeping us in the game. Kestrels came off at half-time with their heads held high. Glen Eira 0, Monash 1.

There was genuine cause for optimism in the second half - despite a dubious box penalty (our 3rd in 3 weeks!) which gifted Monash a 2-nil lead, as the Kestrels were causing Monash a lot of concern. A golden opportunity was missed when a fantastic cross by Eddie was not capitalised upon. No matter, minutes later Josh slammed one into the net and Glen Eira was on the board. What a great goal! Glen Eira were still in with a chance. However, Monash made the most of their opportunites and were more threatening in front of goals. Despite desperate Kestrels defending, it felt almost inevitable Monash would score again, and they did. At the final whistle the scores were: Glen Eira 1, Monash City 3. The Monash coach paid tribute to our players and regarded our performance as greatly improved from the last. Condescending? perhaps, but he was right about one thing – we have definitely improved. We may never be able to match the fanaticism of a club like Monash; 2 training sessions, 2 actual matches, plus futsal each week, but we can show that putting fun, friendship and a fair-go first doesn’t mean you can’t be a competitive and competent team.

Goalscorer: Josh 1

Richard Holt - Kestels, Manager
(posted 15:00 04 August 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 12: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs White Star Dandenong – Sunday 22 July 2007

Score: Kestrels 3, Dandenong 1

The morning was freezing, white frost decorated the pitch, and the Kestrels were off to Dandenong and a supposed walk in the park against competition ‘easybeat’, White Star Dandenong. Or so we thought. But again, strange things happen on a Sunday morning. Surprisingly competitive and fast, Dandenong threatened early and had the Kestrels on the back foot, furiously defending. Without a dominant striker, our mid-flelders couldn’t link up our forward thrusts and Dandenong were dangerous on the re-bound. Where had our ‘mojo’ gone? Perhaps the cold of the ground had turned everyone into ice-sculptures. Only David seemed to be playing with some determination. Half-time: Kestrels 0, Dandenong 0.

Change was needed. After Halftime our forward-line was bolstered with the appearance of Eddie and Jade, and immediately things started thaw out. Charging down the wing, with his massive strides, Dandenong had no answer to Eddie, who got us on the board at last, and like a hot water bottle brought instant relief to all. Continuing his good work, Eddie set up Jade who got himself into good position for 2 quick goals. The danger had passed. Not to be denied, Dandenong had their moment and converted a box penalty to register their first goal of the year! Well Done. It was a fair reward for their efforts after having lots of the play, particularly in the first half. The mood was subdued afterwards. The Kestrels had been lacklustre, but luckily had not been made to pay the price. But, we can ill afford to freeze-up in our return match against the Dark Empire Monash City next week.

Goalscorers: Jade 2, Eddie 1.

Richard Holt - Kestrels, Manager

Round 11: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs Nunawading City – Sunday 05 July 2007

Score: Kestrels 2, Nunawading 2

Half way through the season and the Kestrels were still sitting on 5th place. Breathing down our neck in 6th position was Nunawading City. This was a game we needed to win to keep our final four dreams alive. The conditions were good - cold but bearable. Nunawading brought a large contingent to the game and had more supporters than the Kestrels. It made for a strange atmosphere for a Kestrels home game at Lord Reserve. The game began as usual – lots of Kestrel attacks, but no scoreboard reward. We’d planted Curtis ‘Superfly’ into the goal square for a half and had a strong squad on the pitch. Midfielders David and Eddie were doing their usual hustling towards goal and the weeks of consistent positioning of players was having a stabilising effect. However, Nunawading were well organised and when Darcy ‘Nighttrain’ went off the rails and gave away a penalty, things were looking grim. One out with their striker ‘The Fly’ flew to the ball but it just sneaked past him for a regulation penalty goal. The Kestrels mounted counter attacks. Antony had the ball on a string and was lighting up the midfield. Our strikers Jade, Jiah and Danny were all agonisingly close to scoring. But again, it was Nunawading, capitalising on some indecision amongst our backmen, that scored again. The game was slipping from our hands. Halftime: Glen Eira 0, Nunawading 2.

Second half. A quick re-shuffle of the side and some fresh players. But the arm-wrestle continued.  Each side mounting attacks and both defences dominating. In an impressive display of courage, Patrick ‘Dangerman’ stopped a Nunawading striker in his tracks, almost sending him into orbit. But when tireless centre-left Jordan left the field for a second time with injury, the Kestrels were looking a spent force. The sky was ominous, a few drops of rain appeared and we wondered if we’d ultimately pay for our missed chances. But how often in soccer do amazing things occur? Someone needed to step up - and someone did. David ‘The Cheetah’ after looking for a goal all day made it happen and suddenly the game lifted. Glen Eira 1, Nunawading 2.  Now the question remained - could we possibly come back from the death for the 3rd time in 4 weeks? Time was ticking away. All our boys - Anthony, Adam, Daniel, Vasili, Josh were really trying hard. Then, with 2 minutes to play, somehow, someway – “The Cheetah” scored and cheated Nunawading out of a certain victory. We’d done it. The boys had done it again. Afterwards, a few things became apparent. The spirit of the Kestrels can never be denied, but how lucky we had been. Again failure to capitalise on early chances put us into the hands of the Gods of Soccer again – but, yet again, they smiled on us. Fulltime: Glen Eira 2, Nunawading 2.

Goalscorer:

Richard Holt - Kestrels, Manager
(posted 16:30 04 August 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 10: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs Glen Waverley – Sunday 08 July 2007

Score: Kestrels 1, Glen Waverley 1

Our highly anticipated re-match with Group Leaders Glen Waverley couldn’t have had a worse start. Hoping to avoid a school holiday exodus of players, I emailed details of the match days in advance. Unfortunately, I gave out the wrong venue. Martin was less than amused and had to frantically re-shuffle the team. After rounding up all the players including the South African Contingent, who probably knew their way around Glen Waverley better than me, I arrived at the ground to find play had commenced. Avoiding the dirty looks, I made my way to the technical area. The Kestrels were deep in attack and looking good. Glen Waverley were undefeated and had only conceded one goal so far in the season. Fortunately, that was against us the last time we played. I knew we could match it with them.

Again, early in the match we had a lot of the play in our attacking area. Josh (The Knife) was playing with surgical precision, setting up most of the attacking plays, whilst at the other end Curtis (Superfly) hovered over any loose balls, with the ever reliable Darcy (Night Train) right on schedule. Eddie (Van Halen) was shredding along the left, playing some wonderful through balls to set up the strikers. Antony (The Imperial) was majestic and Anthony (Antz) was having a picnic. Patrick (Dangerman) was living dangerously, putting himself on the line. But despite the application of the Kestrels, Glen Waverley got the early break. “You’re still not playing very well, Glen Waverley”, was their coach’s encouraging comment.  Half-Time: Glen Eira 0, Glen Waverley 1.

The intensity increased in the second half. Time and again the Kestrels went forward. Finally, as a just reward for his efforts, Eddie (Van Halen) perfomed a screaming solo that sent the audience into raptures. We had equalised and silenced the home crowd. There was even time to win if we were good enough. Glen Waverley tried hard to get through, but a human wall in the shape of the Daniel (Gentle Giant) provided defence of biblical proportions. Of the others, Jordan (The River) flowed like a mighty torrent when released from the goalkeeping duties, Jiah (The Thinker) was playing mind games, Vasili (Big V) was Vehement in his attack, Adam (The Sharpie) rumbled through the opposition, Danny (Boy) was on song, and David (The Cheetah) was sleek. Final Whistle: Glen Eira 1, Glen Waverley 1. Again we had snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, and thrilled all in a classic come-from-behind draw.

Goalscorer:

Richard Holt - Kestrels, Manager
(posted 16:30 04 August 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 9. Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs Whitehorse – Sunday 01 July 2007

Score: Kestrels 4, Whitehorse 0

This week the Kestrels were away at Whitehorse – the last team we play before the halfway mark of the season and the return match in Round 10 against league leader Glen Waverley. And this week, all players arrived at the ground in good time giving Martin ample time to prepare the team. Well done, Kestrels and parents. Starting where we left off last week, Eddie (Van Halen) and Jordan (The River), our wingers initiated many attacks. Striker Jade (The Scorpion) worked hard, getting himself in excellent position and scored our first goal. At the risk of dejavu, the Kestrels again, struggled to score. Many shots going – you guessed it – straight to the opposition keeper’s chest. Eddie (Van Halen) managed another before halftime though to give us a handy lead. In defence the ever-dependable Curtis (Superfly) was patrolling the halfway point, cleaning up any stray balls and giving the Kestrels a lot of rebound. Defender Patrick (Dangerman) was putting himself in good position and slowed down a lot of Whitehorse attacks. Big Anthony (Antz) and Daniel (The Gentle Giant) rounded out the solid defence. The Kestrels midfielders – Adam (The Sharpie) Eddie and Jordan worked tirelessly. Halftime Kestrels 2, Whitehorse 0.

The halftime address by Martin concentrated on one aspect: Finishing. “The goals are wide! Go left. Go Right. Anywhere but to the Keeper!” So with the coach’s words still ringing in their ears, the Kestrels continued on in their attacking ways. Subs Josh (The Knife) and Darcy (Night Train) made up for lost time and played their butts off. Little Antony (The Imperial) freed from goalkeeping duties buzzed around the goal area looking for his chance and always looked dangerous. Following instructions to the letter this time Eddie streamed into an open goal only to go – too wide! But the idea was OK. Maybe next time. Jordan and Josh both scored good goals in the second half. Jiah (The Thinker) and Danny (Boy) really put in good games and are improving all the time. The Kestrels ended up with a good win, but could have scored more. Next week Glen Waverley, and we’ll have to make the most of our opportunities if we want to win this game. Fulltime Kestrels 4, Whitehorse 0.

Goalscorers:

• Jade: 1
• Eddie:1
• Jordan:1
• Josh: 1

Richard Holt - Kestrels, Manager
(posted 23:00 03 July 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 8: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs FC Bulleen Lions – Sunday 24 June 2007

Score: Kestrels 2, Bulleen 2

As they say, a week is a long time in Football! Since the last round defeat at the hands of Richmond, a lot had happened within the Kestrels side. A team meeting had produced a plan for the rest of the year; team goals (a top four finish) and individual goals (a primary position for each player). A practice game was played on the Saturday prior to this game and whilst we lost, some encouraging signs emerged. So on to Sunday’s game. The Kestrels arrived at their home ground to be greeted by the sight of the entire Bulleen team (who had been there since 8.15am) warming up, and things did not look good. Again we looked set to be done over by one of the “organised” teams.

But, as soon as the game started the Kestrels were on another level! We attacked time and again and Bulleen were totally on the back foot. Eddie, Josh, David, Adam and Jade put amazing pressure on the Bulleen defence, but we let ourselves down with our finishing. Ten minutes of play should have produced 3 goals, but as so often happens in football, a single mistake can undo all the good work. Bulleen’s solitary forward thrust for the half resulted in a goal. Halftime Bulleen 1, Glen Eira 0.

The second half was shaping up to be a classic. But midway through the second half Bulleen struck again 2-0. Faced with the prospect of the game slipping away, the Kestrels threw everything into the contest. Jordan and Josh, particularly provided a lot of attack and finally set up David’s shot – a goal! Beautifully taken and a just reward for his fine game. With minutes to go, last minute sub Eddie scored the equaliser. 2-2. Pandemonium! There IS a God! It would have been a travesty for the Kestrels to lose this game – so we could live with a draw. Bulleen were stunned and happy to escape with this result. All players were good today. The positives: Everyone played to their positions, the passing was seamless and dangerous, the players kept their cool and their heads even though 2 goals down with ten minutes to go, fewer offsides, The negatives; Finishing, finishing, finishing.
Fulltime: Kestrels 2, Bulleen 2

Goalscorers:

• David: 1
• Eddie: 1

Richard Holt - Kestrels Manager
(posted 23:00 03 July 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 7: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs Richmond – Sunday 17 June 2007

Score: Kestrels 0, Richmond 3

In another game against a side above us on the ladder, the Kestrels again capitulated against a very well-organised team. The game was played on a pitch with very little grass, which perhaps disorientated the players, as they all ‘huddled’ together. As Martin remarked “You could have thrown a blanket around the whole team”! Richmond were quick off the mark and an ‘own goal’ added to our woes in the first half. Unable to find their rhythm or their positions, the Kestrels were under intense pressure although a lot of damage was averted through the efforts of Josh, Darcy, Curtis and David running back to help out in defence. First half Richmond 2, Glen Eira 0.

The Kestrels performed better in the second half but had no shots on goal. Danny and Jiah had the unenviable task of Goalkeepers and both tried hard but were overwhelmed by Richmond’s numerous forward thrusts. Fulltime: Richmond 3, Glen Eira 0. A disappointing result, but one that served to highlight where the team is ‘at’ – a mid-table team able to win convincingly against weaker opposition but easily beaten by more committed and organised teams.

Following this game, the Match Committee (Coach & Manager) instigated a strategy to facilitate the graduation of the team to the “next level”. A team meeting was arranged and players were put into sub-groups with set positions. A leadership group was chosen and a practice game against the Glen Eira U12’s organised for the following Saturday. Stay tuned for further exciting adventures of the Kestrels!

Richard Holt - Manager, Kestrels
(posted 23:00 03 July 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 6: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels Boys vs Kingston City– Sunday 10 June 07

Score:  Kestrels 5, Kingston CIty 0

Back at home this week, the Kestrels lined up against Kingston City. With the long weekend and a few absentees, the Kestrels had a 12 man squad, which gave the players who were there a good go on the field. Glen Eira showed early dominance and proceeded to pepper the goals with numerous shots from all angles, but few met their target. Also the boys got ahead of themselves, getting in all sorts of trouble with the offside position; which Kingston fully exploited with their defenders pushing up the field. Finally Darcy, enjoying another productive spell up front, booted 2 goals in the first half. David was blistering with the ball, at one stage having the whole Kingston defence chasing after him. Other players looking lively in the first half were Vasili, Jade, Eddie, Anthony and Josh. Halftime Kestrels 2, Kingston 0.

In the second half, the Kestrels were still very much in control of the game, but kept missing opportunities in front of goal and more comically, continued to be pinged for offside. We lost count, but maybe 10 times we were caught out! Eventually, David broke through for a well-deserved goal, Jordan also and Darcy popped another one in. Daniel, Curtis, Antony and Jiah also did their bit towards an easy but ultimately, frustrating victory. Fulltime: Kestrels 5, Kingston 0. At the risk of sounding arrogant, it should have been 10-0!

Goalscorers:

• Darcy: 3
• David: 1
• Jordan: 1

Richard Holt - Manager, Kestrels
(posted 20:15 24 June 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 5: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels vs Ashburton - Sunday 03 June 2007

Score: Kestrels 2, Ashburton 0

This was a match between 2 teams that were quite evenly matched. We have played against Ashburton for the last 4 years and the games are always good. Martin mixed and matched the team a bit differently, switching some defenders and strikers around and started with David in goals. We had the benefit of a very experienced referee and this gave the match a really professional dimension. It was a fine Sunday morning, the conditions pertect. The Kestrels were fortunate to score quickly, when Vasili, finishing off some good work by Curtis, scored his first goal for the year. Meanwhile, in defence, David was thwarting Ashburton with some fine goalkeeping. Jordan, Josh, Darcy and Jiah all showed good decision making and the boys were communicating well. The game was played all over the pitch with all players getting involved in a tight first half. Halftime: Kestrels 1, Ashburton 0.

In the second half, Patrick was put into goals and defended fantastically as Ashburton, spurred on by their home crowd, were desperate to equalise. Anthony, Daniel, Danny and Antony held firm in defence when the pressure was on. Jordan was also adding a lot of support in the backhalf. Finally, in the last few minutes, a great run by Curtis, who passed off to Jade to score a goal, sealed the game in our favour.
Fulltime: Kestrels 2, Ashburton 0.

Richard Holt - Manager, Kestrels
(posted 11:15 13 June 2007 by Richard Holt)

Round 4: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels vs Monash City - Sun 27 May 2007

Score:  Kestrels 0, Monash 6

This week there was a complete reversal of scoreline for the Kestrels. After coming off a 6-0 win against Dandenong, we found ourselves experiencing that losing feeling against Monash. Expectations were high, but Monash were too well organised and found their goal consistently in the first half. Halftime 0-4. After the break, Glen Eira manufactured some chances, but luck was against us and eventually Monash drew away with a convincing 6 goal win.

Richard Holt - Manager Kestrels

Round 3: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels vs Dandenong Whitestars – Sun 20 May 2007

Score: Kestrels 6, Dandenong: 0

After an impressive effort last week, the Kestrels were determined to keep up the good work. They didn’t disappoint. Coach Martin continued his policy of mixing up the team and had regular defenders Daniel, Darcy and Patrick in attack. They boys were eager to capitalise on their opportunities, and with great supply from midfielders Eddie and David, Darcy scored first. David, was impressing everyone with his excellent ball control, getting around 5 opponents in one passage of play before passing off. Eddie continued to find lots of space on the right and was rewarded with 2 goals for the half, while Darcy relishing his role as striker, also added to his tally. The Kestrel's defence was hardly troubled in the half, but got good rebound from Curtis, Adam, Vasili and Danny.
Halftime: Kestrels 4, Dandenong 0.

After re-shuffling the team, the Kestrels came out in the second half with a new look. Jordan resumed his usual role on the left midfield and Antony came on for his first game. Dandenong showed improvement in the second half and gave us a few anxious moments, but again it was David, this time in defence, who thwarted some certain goals. Adam seemed to be everywhere in this half, his tireless running created lots of opportunities. Jade also covered the defence well. A clever backwards (kick [ed]) given by Jiah gave Antony a dream start to his soccer career, his first kick – a goal! Kestrels had many opportunities, but the Dandenong goalie was up to the task. Finally, it was Jordan who sealed the match with a scrambled goal. Another very solid effort by the team, and a good warm-up for this week’s ‘match of the round’ against Monash.
Fulltime: Kestrels 6, Dandenong 0.

Goalscorers: Darcy 2, Eddie 2, Jordan 1, Antony 1

Richard Holt - Manager, Kestrels.

Round 2: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels vs Nunawading CIty – Sun 13 May 2007

Score:  Kestrels 3, Glen Waverley 0

After a first round loss, the Kestrels were keen to make amends away at Nunawading City. This time, the playing group were at the ground in good time which enabled Coach Martin to give the guys a good preparation. From the opening ball, the Kestrels were looking considerably sharper that the previous week. With Midfielders Vasili, Jade, David and Adam looking lively, the Kestrels were on the attack from the outset. A fantastic run by David set up a golden opportunity that went begging, but unfortunately that was it for David, as he sustained a foot injury. Eddie was subbed on and really went for it, setting up a couple of other opportunities and providing great run from the midfield. Despite dominating the game, the Kestrels came away from the half with nothing to show for it.
Half-time 0-0.

In the second half, Jordan was released from his goal-keeping duties and he started to influence the match. Patrick was working well in defence along side Darcy, Curtis and Anthony. Vasili was enjoying his best game yet for the Kestrels, and Josh was working himself into the match. Finally, Jordan broke through and scrambled through a breakthrough goal. Joyous scenes followed as players and parents alike celebrated a well deserved goal. Now we could relax! However the goal-spree continued when Jiah, in his first game of the season, scored again.  Finally Jordan’s trusty left foot again found the net, when one-out with the keeper. Final scores 3-0. A truly fabulous game and congratulations to the Kestrels and especially to Martin in his maiden win as coach. Hard to pick standout players as all contributed equally to the win.

Goalscorers: Jordan 2, Jiah 1.

Richard Holt - Team Manager

Round 1: Glen Eira U11 Kestrels vs Glen Waverley – Sun 06 May 2007

Score:  Kestrels 1, Glen Waverley 2

The first game of the season, a new coach and several new players saw a ‘new look’ Kestrels take to the field. After a convincing win in our practice match against Glen Eira Phoenix, we were confident of a bold showing. But, Glen Waverley are a very good side and, unfortunately, made us look sloppy. Two quick goals to Glen Waverley in the first 10 minutes shocked the Kestrels, but we gradually worked our way back into the match, thanks to a couple of fantastic solo efforts by Striker Josh - one eventuating in a wonderful goal. Half-time 2-1.

After half-time, Curtis was put into goals and put in a great effort as no more goals were conceded. The second half was very even with both sides getting the ball into their attacking halfs. Glen Waverley eventually ran out winners 2-1.

Our players were a bit rusty and will benefit greatly from this game. All players tried hard but a few stood out. Adam ran well all day, Josh provided some inspirational moments, Curtis performed well in goals, Jade looked dangerous, Darcy was good in the back half.

We are fortunate to have found another inspiring coach in Martin Van Elst to guide us this year. His long experience in the sport will be invaluable in developing the Kestrels. Martin has appointed Anthony V as Kestrels Captain in 2007. Congratulations Anthony – good luck. It’s a good long season with 18 games to play, so lets take this opportunity to really establish ourselves as a top side.

Richard Holt - Team Manager