The Balmain Football Club are Under-20 Champions for season 2006!
With a blinding second-half performance, the Tigers knocked off minor premiers UNSW in a thrilling Grand Final at Hajduk Stadium yesterday. Scoreless at half-time, the game erupted with a barrage of goals early in the second half. A Sasha scorcher followed by a brace to Uri buried UNSW, whose hopes were cruelly raised by a dubious penalty for an equaliser at 1-1.
Performances were sensational across the park, with keeper Chris producing two of the saves of the season to keep UNSW at bay. Apart from the debateable penalty, that was all the UNSW attack could muster as the back four of Vince, Mitch, Tyrell and Lachlan stood firm. Across midfield, Diego and Dave Pirelli confirmed their status as the best midfield partnership in the league, with another sturdy display. Henrik provided an ongoing threat down the left flank, while the attacking trio of Jem, Uri and Sasha ensured this team will be remembered as one of the most lethal in Tiger memory with three beautifully constructed and spectacularly taken goals. They were supported by Tristan, Hugo, Jamie and Owen, who helped grind UNSW into the dust.
It was the second time in two weeks that the Tigers had beaten UNSW, establishing themselves as undoubtedly the team of the season. Credit to UNSW however, for performing with valour and spirit even in the face of the Tiger onslaught.
A special mention goes to Justin, Frank, and Steele who, though failing to get on during the grand final, were instrumental for the Tigers throughout the season.
For coach Alex Kaltenegger, the grand final victory makes it three championships from three when coaching the Tigers' second grade. A season of discipline and hard work was rewarded with not only the result, but also Tiger fans' enduring memory of the team's entertaining style of play.
Once again, congratulations to all those involved throughout the season, and from everyone at the club, we look forward to continuing this success in 2007.
