Last Monday night, the Home Hill Tennis Association hosted a thrilling showdown between Pacific Blue and Wilmar. The competition was fierce, with each round being decided by just a game or two. Wilmar edged out wins in the first and third rounds, each by a single game, while Pacific Blue took the second round by two games. By the end of the night, both teams were tied at 28-all. A special mention goes to Sarah Shepherd, who was the only player to win all three of her sets.

Pickleball Gaining Momentum
Pickleball continues to grow in popularity on Tuesday nights, drawing more participants each week. Last week, four new players joined the 22 participants for a free "Come and Try" session. A few weeks ago, the association introduced pickleball to two young French tourists who were stranded in Home Hill due to car troubles. Though they were skilled tennis players, they had never heard of pickleball. Since then, they've fallen in love with the sport, purchased their own paddles, and even competed in their first tournament.

Our regular players are also showing great enthusiasm, with many buying their own paddles and participating in Saturday morning sessions at 8am, followed by coffee at Home Hill News and Coffee. This Saturday, the association will be heading to Townsville for a social match against the Townsville Pickleball team. Sunday afternoon games will be held, weather permitting. For more information, please contact Kate at 0447 384 441.

Friday Social Tennis
Last Friday's social tennis session included a special Cancer Morning Tea fundraiser, organised by Del and the Friday crew. It was heartwarming to see retired tennis players return for the event. Junior coaching continues to thrive on Fridays, with strong participation from the younger age groups. For more information, contact Coach Kayla at 0408 014 066.

Facility Upgrades at The Home Hill Tennis Association
Thanks to the generous support of Pacific Blue, our new solar system has been successfully installed, with special thanks to Ian Gould for handling the installation. Additionally, our new on-court shades have arrived and are ready to be assembled, courtesy of funding from the Home Hill and Ayr Bendigo Bank. In the coming weeks, we’re excited to start the much-anticipated upgrade to our amenities block, with the contract now ready to be signed.

Busy Times Ahead for Home Hill Sports
This Friday, over 100 primary school children will gather at Home Hill for the first of several sports’ carnival days scheduled for this term. The town will be buzzing with activity as the children participate in various sports, including cricket and netball!

Interested community members of all skill levels are encouraged to email homehilltennis@gmail.com for more information on upcoming events!

Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell.

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The Home Hill Tennis Association invites players of all experience levels to come along for Friday Social Tennis commencing from 3:30pm under the guidance of coach Kayla.
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Always a social success! Friday Social Tennis at the Home Hill Tennis Association hosts plenty of laughs and friendly competition each week.

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This weekend marks the final round of the RLTD fixtures for the Burdekin Roosters, with crucial A and Reserve grade matches that could determine the final standings heading into the playoffs.

In the A Grade, while the Roosters are out of finals contention, four clubs are battling for the remaining three spots in the top four. Souths have already secured the minor premiership with 31 points, but Brothers, Western Lions, and Charters Towers, all tied on 22 points, along with Herbert River, close behind with 21 points, are vying for the remaining positions.

Friday night will see Brothers host Souths, while on Saturday, Centrals face off against Charters Towers, Norths take on Western Lions, and Burdekin hosts Herbert River.

Herbert River may have jeopardised their finals chances last weekend. After a solid 32-12 win over Western Lions in Ingham, they faltered on Sunday in Townsville, losing 28-12 to the same team. To make the finals, Herbert River now needs to defeat the Roosters in Ayr on Saturday night and hope for a Centrals win over Charters Towers or a Norths victory against Western Lions.

Saturday night's A Grade game in Ayr will be the Roosters' final match of the season. Coach Steve Lansley faces uncertainty regarding player availability, as he won't know until later in the week whether he’ll have three Cowboys and three Blackhawks players at his disposal. Henry Teuteu and Epi Kikau are expected from the Cowboys, with Jeremiah Matuatu likely returning to the Cutters. Chris Gale may be the only Blackhawk to start, with Dudley Dotoi and possibly Ratu Ravisore expected to be called up by the Hawks.

Coach Lansley experimented with Terry Connors on the wing against Centrals, which proved successful, earning Connors the Players’ Player award. He’s likely to start there again. However, Paul Merlo may be sidelined with an ankle injury, a disappointment for the Frenchman who was eager to face off against Herbert River’s French players.

Colby is expected to return as hooker, with Kali at lock, supported by Tate, Lachlan, Henry, and Chris. Ethan might take a spot on the bench. The coach must also decide whether to include a few under-18 players, who will have already played earlier in the day and are bound for the finals. If selected, Jye Olsen could slot in at halfback, with Hayde Munto and Luca Lago in the backs. Other potential backline players include Nemia, Iowane, Epi, with Joel at fullback.

In other news, only two games will be played in the women’s competition, as Herbert River’s ladies have forfeited to the local Hens. This result ensures the Hens finish in third place behind Centrals and Western Lions, with Brothers taking fourth.

The Reserve Grade will kick off after junior league matches on what’s being dubbed a "Super Saturday," starting from 8:30am. Reggies coach Chris Perry has his team locked in fourth place as they head into the mini semi-finals next week. Perry may see the return of Jerome Lacco and possibly Jermaine McIvor this week, which would add some much-needed size to the front line.

The Reserves suffered a defeat to the Crushers in Ingham, largely due to the presence of former River great Mitchell Seri, who controlled the game. However, Seri is not expected to play this time.

The Roosters have recorded 10 wins and a draw compared to the Crushers’ five victories, most of which were at home. The Reserve Grade match is scheduled to start at 3:15pm, followed by the A Grade clash at 5:30pm.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Deciding games will be held over the coming weekend to determine the final standings of both A and Reserve Grades before heading into the playoffs.

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Crushers v Nat II at the Ayr  8-2
Nat I v Ants at the National  10-0
Falcons v Bombers at the Anzac  10-0
Cougars had the bye 10 points

Points:
Nat II - 157, Crushers – 151, Falcons - 141, Nat I -128, Cougars - 114, Ants - 101, and Bomber 48

1st round of finals Thursday 15/08/24:
Nat II v Ants at  the National, Crushers v Cougars at the Anzac and Falcons v Nat I at the Ayr

CONGRATULATIONS TO NATIONAL II FOR TAKING OUT THE MINOR PREMIERS

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Davison.

National 1 performed well in last week’s rounds.

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The Burdekin Clay Target Club enjoyed a successful weekend, starting with an impressive turnout of 24 competitors on the evening of Saturday 20 July. The evening’s competition was intense, with many shooters rising to the challenge of night shooting, which can be particularly tricky.

Sunday 21 July brought an even larger crowd, with 37 shooters taking part. The weather was pleasant, with a light breeze adding to the day's enjoyment. The club extends a big thank you to their sponsors, Burdekin Tyres and Burdekin Engineering, for their support.

Saturday Night Results
Event 1 - 25 Target Night Pointscore;
   • AA Grade: 1st Aaron Lemphers (75/75), 2nd Glen Rea (73/75)
   • A Grade: 1st Colin Ferguson & Alan Lord (71/75)
   • B Grade: 1st Peter Wade & Sarah Sebastiani (73/75)
   • C Grade: 1st Alf Gangemi (67/75), 2nd Michael Becke (65/75)

Event 2 - 25 Target Burdekin Night Double Barrel Championship (Sponsored by Burdekin Tyres);
   • Open: 1st Aaron Lemphers (30/30)
   • AA Grade: Aaron Lemphers (30/30)
   • A Grade: 1st Vito Patane (29/30)
   • B Grade: 1st Jy Yarrow (28/29)
   • C Grade: 1st Michael Becke (25/26)

Sunday Results
Event 1 - 25 Target Double Barrel 15m;
   • AA Grade: 1st Michael Zabal, Lindsay Groat, Wayne Cislowski & Glen Rea (25/25)
   • A Grade: 1st Annette Vassalini, Sylvia Rossato, Joe Sebastiani (Jnr) & Domingo Diaz (24/25)
   • B Grade: 1st Chantal Morelli (24/25), 2nd Ian Kriesel, Richard Stanhope, Peter Wade & Aiden Sebastiani (23/25)
   • C Grade: 1st Brian Bonanno & Michael Becke (25/25), 2nd Tim Ewens (23/25)

Event 2 - 20 Target Pointscore 15m;
   • AA Grade: 1st Joe Caruso (71/72)
   • A Grade: 1st Michael Jones (59/60)
   • B Grade: 1st Ian Kriesel (59/60)
   • C Grade: 1st Sarah Sebastiani (60/60)

Event 3 - 25 Target Handicap;
   • Open: 1st Lindsay Groat (27/27)
   • 2nd Joe Scalia (26/27)
   • 3rd Ian Kriesel (28/29)

Event 4 - 15 Pair Double Rise 15m (Sponsored by Burdekin Engineering);
   • AA Grade: 1st Michael Zabala (28/30), 2nd Aaron Lemphers (26/30), 3rd John Cerqui (25/30)
   • A Grade: 1st Benji Micallef (30/30), 2nd Glen Rea (29/30), 3rd Ian Kriesel (27/30)
   • B Grade: 1st Sylvia Rossato (28/30), 2nd Joe Scalia & Davis Stitt (25/30)
   • C Grade: 1st Alf Gangemi (24/30), 2nd Peter Wade (23/30), 3rd Tim Ewens (21/30)

Event 5 - 20 Pair Burdekin Deaville Doubles Championship;
   • 1st John Cerqui & Joe Sebastiani (Snr) (45 Pair)
   • 2nd David Stitt & Lindsay Groat (44 Pair)

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato.

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Jy Yarrow and Vito Patane at Event 2-25 Target Burdekin Night Double Barrel Championship-Sponsored by Burdekin Tyres.
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Aaron Lemphers, Sponsor Guy and Vito Patane at Event 2-25 Target Burdekin Night Double Barrel Championship-Sponsored by Burdekin Tyres.
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Joe Sebastiani (Snr) John Cerqui, Lindsay Groat and David Stitt at Event 5-20 Pair Deauville Doubles Championship-Sponsored by Burdekin Engineering.

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Last week’s action at the Ayr Bowling Club began with ladies' social bowls on Tuesday, 6 August, where two exciting games of triples were played. The winning teams were R. Moore, R. Soper, and I. Wilson, who defeated I. Cislowski, B. Cornford, and D. Cutting, and K. Stuckler, K. Page, and P. Power, who overcame D. Soper, B. Schultz, and S. Stidston.

Wednesday’s social bowls featured four games of triples, with B. Young, G. Nixon, and W. Coonan emerging as the winners. The Wednesday jackpot winners were Ron, John, and M. Power.

On Thursday, 8 August, the ladies competed in the Open Triples, with the match being decided in the final ends. Lyn Storrie, Beryl Cornford, and Irene Wilson were victorious, defeating Ruth Moore, Heather Jorgensen, and Pam Power.

The Ayr Bowling Club invites everyone to join in on the action for Fun Friday Night Bowls on Friday, 23 August, starting at 6pm. Sponsored by Tinus Engineering, this event is a fantastic opportunity for bowlers of all skill levels! Bring your friends or sign-up solo to meet new people. The cost is $10 per game, which includes a sausage sizzle and a light supper, with the sizzle to begin at 6pm and bowling commencing at 7pm. For more information or to enter, contact Maurie Power at 0412 551 816 or Pam Power at 0458 330 019.

Please check the club board for details on the upcoming championship club games on 18 August. Make sure to enter your teams by the competition closing dates listed on the board.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

The community is invited to pop down to the Ayr Bowling Club for Fun Friday Night Bowls this Friday evening from 6pm.

While the Roosters' A Grade and Ladies teams enjoyed a weekend off, the Reserves travelled to Bowen on the evening of Friday 9 August for a fixture match against the Bowen Seagulls.

A strong crowd gathered for the Seagulls' final home game of the season, and they weren't disappointed. The Seagulls secured their second spot on the ladder with a 14–6 victory over the Roosters in a hard-fought and entertaining game.

Roosters coach Chris Perry praised his team's defence, especially in the first half, which ended in a rare 0–0 scoreline.

“It’s been a long time since I have seen a nil all score line at half time in any game of Rugby League let alone Reserve grade,” said Perry.

Both teams were evenly matched, but Bowen had an edge with former Blackhawk Temone Power, who took control of the game and set up several key plays.

“Temone was well known for the way he could stand and off load in his day and he has not forgotten how either,” added Perry.

Perry felt his team could have utilized their strong backline more effectively.

“I think we may have learnt a lesson in ball control, and we will be better with the return of Jerome Lacco from work when we meet the Crushers in Ayr on Saturday,” the Coach said.

Jayden Sgarbossa crossed for a try after a sweeping play, showing the potential of the Roosters' backline.

The absence of suspended player Dylan Doak was felt and Terry Connors, who filled in at five-eighth, had some solid runs but was called for running a decoy twice. Caleb Noah also showed promise but struggled to fully capitalize on his strength.

Sgarbossa was one of the standout players and was rewarded with the team's only try, which he also converted. Perry believes the team has learned valuable lessons in ball control and is looking forward to the return of Jerome Lacco for their next match against the Crushers in Ayr on Saturday.

Other Reserve Grade Matches:
   • Charters Towers and Brothers played to a 22-all draw in the Towers.
   • Western Lions defeated Herbert River 16–10.
   • Centrals dominated Norths with a 38–0 victory, while Souths had a bye.

A Grade Results:
   • Charters Towers defeated Brothers 30–18.
   • Western Lions reversed last week's result, beating Herbert River in Townsville 38–16.
   • Centrals turned their game around with a 40–22 win over Norths.

This week's matches will be crucial in determining the second and third placings, with Souths leading on 31 points, followed by Brothers, Western Lions, and Charters Towers on 22, and Herbert River on 21. Upcoming fixtures include Centrals hosting Charters Towers, Herbert River traveling to Burdekin, Brothers facing Souths, and Norths playing Western Lions.

Ladies Results: The weekend saw dominant performances from the top teams, with Western Lions defeating Herbert River 40–0 and Centrals beating Norths 48–0. In the other match, Brothers triumphed over Charters Towers 22–10.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Jayden Sgarbossa was praised for his performance in last weekend’s game against the Bowen Seagulls.

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Twelve eager juniors took to the green at the Ayr Golf Club last weekend for the August Monthly Medal. Congratulations to the young, talented winners: Rheanna Bain for 9 holes, Tegan Saxby for 6 holes, and Celine Bain for 3 holes.

The Ayr Golf Club extends a special shoutout to the two players who advanced from 6 holes to 9 holes, and to Jacob Munro, who moved up to the 6-hole competition. The Club also expressed a big thank you to Cecily Lena for guiding the new junior 9-holers around the course.

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Contributed with thanks to Kristina Land.

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Two enthusiastic Lower Burdekin Cub Scouts took part in the Regional Cub Sailing Day at the Townsville Sailing Club on Saturday, 10 August. Being the first to arrive, they kicked off their adventure with an up-close look at the yachts.

A total of 17 Cubs enjoyed a morning packed with activities, including sailing instruction, games on the foreshore, and a thrilling ride in the rescue boat. The weather couldn't have been better, with sunshine and a gentle breeze making for a perfect day on the water.

After sharing their experience with the rest of their Scout group, the Cubs will be able to earn a boating badge, marking their accomplishment in this exciting water activity.

A big thank you to Dianne and the team at the Townsville Sailing Centre for providing a fantastic day out for the Cubs!

Contributed with thanks to Chris Berkley.

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The Handicap Pennant competition in North Queensland was a showcase of skill and sportsmanship, with golfers from across the region coming together to compete over the last weekend of July.

The women's events were particularly thrilling, with Mackay #1 clinching the Division 1 title after a tense countback from Proserpine #1, while Sarina dominated in Division 2.

The Ayr #1 team's narrow victory in their match was a testament to the close competition, and the excitement was palpable as Mackay's #4 team triumphed in Division 4.

Ayr #3's win in Division 5 at the Ayr Golf Club added to the weekend's highlights.

A historic moment was marked at Magnetic Island, hosting the Women Pennant for the first time, with the Magnetic Island #1 team emerging victorious. In the men's category, the competition was equally fierce, with Collinsville taking the top spot in Pool A and Ayr winning Pool B. The event was a celebration of golf, bringing together a community of players who share a passion for the game.

Contributed with thanks to Karen Hindle.

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2024 Women’s Pennant Div 5 Ayr.
2024 Women’s Pennant Div 1 Mackay.
2024 Women’s Pennant Div 6 Magnetic Island.
2024 Women’s Pennant Div 2 Sarina.
2024 Men’s Pennant Pool A Collinsville.
2024 Women’s Pennant Div 3 Ayr.
2024 Men’s Pennant Pool B Ayr.
2024 Women’s Pennant Div 4 Mackay.

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On Saturday 10 August, the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads will host their eagerly awaited annual Old Boys Day at Casalegno Fields. This event, a cornerstone of the club's calendar, brings together former players, coaches, and volunteers who eagerly anticipate the opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the camaraderie of the past.

Old Boys Day is a time for celebrating anniversaries of past premiership wins, with many former members traveling from across the country to return to the Burdekin region. It's an opportunity not only to visit family but also to catch up with old rugby mates.

The Old Boys Group, established about fifteen years ago, provides a way for past players to stay involved with the club. They contribute in various ways, from manning the bar on Ladies Day to operating the gate at home games and offering support wherever needed. Over the years, the funds raised by the Old Boys have supported the club's juniors, providing over $25,000 in financial assistance to those who have made representative teams. The group has also hosted old boys boot camps, promoting both physical and mental well-being through continued connections within the group.

“‘Be there or stay fat’ was our motto for the old boy’s boot camps - I’m not sure if we achieved much of an improvement to our physical health but the connections you maintain from groups like this certainly help with mental wellbeing,” shared Murray Cannavan.

This year's Old Boys Day will feature a "Father's Day" theme, inviting all fathers of current men's and women's team players to join the festivities in the Old Boys area. The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads extend a warm invitation to all dads to be part of this special day.

“Our club and rugby in general has always been a very inclusive community and we’d love to see all of the dads there,” invited Murray.

What: Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads’ 2024 Old Boys Day.
When: Saturday 10 August.
Where: Casalegno Fields.
More Information: Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads Facebook Page.

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Come on down to Casalegno Fields on Saturday 10 August to celebrate what it is to be a toad for the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads’ 2024 Old Boys Day.

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The Burdekin Roosters A Grade team showcased their true potential with a commanding 62-22 win over Centrals at the Sports Reserve in Townsville on the afternoon of Saturday 3 August.

The Roosters surged ahead early, leading 16-0 before the Tigers clawed back to make it 26-12 at halftime. In the second half, Burdekin dominated, scoring 36 points to 10, with six of the Tigers' points coming in the final minute.

The Roosters exhibited excellent speed and support play, with multiple tries scored through well-coordinated team efforts. The forwards, led by Henry Teuteu, Paul Merlo, and Lachlan Shepherd, controlled the game, with Tate Brombal making his presence felt in the tough conditions.

The backs were the stars of the match, with Terry Connors earning Player of the Match Honors for his speed and elusive play. Joel Mason, in top form at fullback, scored 18 points with a try and seven goals, aided by Epi Kikau and Ethan Hagarty, who returned from an ankle injury.

Coach Steve Lansley praised the performance of his team, highlighting the exceptional play of Henry Teuteu. Lansley also integrated three players from the high-flying under-18 side - Jye Olsen, Luca Lago, and Llama Ghee - who all performed admirably, with Lago scoring a try.

"We have one game left next week against Herbert River and if we can reproduce that form we will give them a shake too,’ explained Lansley.

Tries: Terry Connors (3), Henry Teuteu (2), Paul Merlo, Kali Nauque, Lachlan Shepherd, Epi Kikau, Ethan Hagarty, Joel Mason, Luca Lago. Goals: Joel Mason (7).

In other A-grade matches, Norths upset Brothers 22-20, Souths defeated Charters Towers 36-18, and Herbert River beat Western Lions 32-12.

In the Reserve Grade, Roosters' Reserves coach Chris Perry expressed disappointment after his team fell 30-22. Despite leading 16-0, mistakes and contentious decisions, including disallowed tries and penalties, turned the tide.

"We seemed to be going well leading 16 nil, but then we suddenly started making mistakes which appeared very doubtful - we are throwing silly passes instead of taking the tackle,” said Perry.

Caleb Noah was named Player of the Match, with Brody Ferguson also receiving praise. Dylan Doak scored two tries and kicked three goals for 14 points, with additional tries from Suli Korisau and Paul Banigan.

In other reserve grade results, Bowen beat Herbert River 16-12, Brothers defeated Norths 28-10, and Souths beat Charters Towers 38-10.

The Burdekin Hens were outclassed by a well-drilled Centrals team, losing 60-6. The undefeated Lady Tigers have scored 464 points this season, conceding only 48.

Hens coach Anita Hagarty commended her team's effort despite the defeat. Recently selected Queensland Country winger Toni Daisy scored the Hens' only try, with Stephanie Monday converting.

Young centre Tiana Krutzfeldt was named best on field for the Hens.

In other ladies' matches, Brothers beat Norths 46-4, and Western Lions defeated Herbert River 36-6.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

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Burdekin Hens coach, Anita Hagarty praised the girls’ efforts last weekend despite their unfortunate loss to Centrals.

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The Home Hill Golf Club’s Ladies’ Sip ‘n Putt sessions were the brainchild of Club Secretary Megan Barbagallo. After securing funding from the Queensland Government’s “Active Women and Girls Program,” the club aimed to increase female participation in golf, and developed a ladies’ only series of events which began on Saturday 20 July. The Sip ‘n Putt concept encourages women to try the sport for the first time by highlighting the fun, social, and exercise aspects, plus the bonus of a free beverage!

The inaugural Ladies’ Sip ‘n Putt on Saturday 20 July was a great success, with nine women joining PGA Professional Tara Jenkins for basic golf drills, socialising, and a fun gathering afterward. The positive feedback has all the attendees eager to return to the green at the Home Hill Golf Club, and many are planning to bring a friend along to the next session.

The upcoming session on 17 August will cover grip and swing basics, ensuring new participants can catch up quickly, with the second half set to focus on chipping and putting around the green, followed by another spectacular social session.

Ladies interested in trying golf are invited to join the fun at Home Hill Golf Club on Saturday, 17 August at 3:30 pm… and remember, golfers live longer!

Contributed with thanks to Megan Barbagallo.

What: FREE Ladies’ Sip ‘n Putt.
When: Saturday 17 August at 3:30pm – 4:30pm (future dates: 14 September & 12 October).
Where: Home Hill Golf Club.
More Information: Home Hill Golf Club’s Facebook Page or by contacting Megan Barbagallo.

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A social success! The Home Hill Golf Club invites any ladies interested in having a go at the sport to pop down to the green next Saturday 17 August!

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On Sunday 28 July, numerous teams of talented, young Burdekin Football Club athletes traveled to Townsville to put it on the field at the Wulguru Carnival yielding fantastic results across the highly enjoyable day! The results are as follows:

JDS Under 8
Finished 3rd
Pool games - two wins, one loss
Won 3rd v 4th playoff 8-0 defeating Wulguru

JDS Under 9
Finished 5th
Pool games - two wins, one draw, one loss
Won 5th v 6th playoff

JDS Crusaders Under 10
Finished 3rd
Pool games - three wins, one loss.
Won 3rd v 4th playoff in shootouts

JDS East’s Under 10
Finished 6th
Pool games - one win, three losses
Lost 5th v 6th playoff

JDS Under 10 Girls
Finished Runners Up in Girls 10/11 Comp
Pool games - won all three
Lost 1st v 2nd playoff 1-0 to MAO

JDS Under 12
Finished 4th
Pool games - one win, one draw, one loss
Lost 3rd v 4th playoff in shootouts 3-5

Photo credits to Melanie Louise Profke.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Football Club.

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Local

Last weekend was a much better weekend for the Burdekin Panthers as they won three and drew one out of the four games played. The Division One Funkies drew 3-3 away to Estates Navy on Friday night in Townsville. The other three teams were all at home to Saints Eagles Souths on Saturday. The Premiers won 4-0, the Under 23s won 1-0 and the Ladies won 2-1.

This week the Panthers have five games with the Division 1 Funkies playing twice.  On Tuesday night they are at home to Brothers and then on Friday night they are playing Ingham in Townsville. On Saturday, the Premiers, Under 23s and Ladies are all away to JCU Riverway.

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers having lost to Saints last time out were keen to make amends. It started very well for the Panthers with the first chance coming in the opening minutes. In the twelfth minute, after a superbly taken free kick was tapped onto the bar, Antoine found himself unmarked on the goal line to calmly tap home for the opening goal. Six minutes later, Jay Leckenby scored with a left foot volley which left the keeper no chance. Just after the half hour mark, Luke Maguire finally got his goal after having a few shots saved by the goalkeeper. The half ended 3-0. The second half started as the first finished, with the Panthers camped in the Saints half, and the Saints keeper having plenty to do. It wasn't until the 76th minute that Maguire found himself with another goal after a mazy run. The match ended in a 4-0 win for the Panthers. If not for a top performance from the Saints goalkeeper, it could have been a much worse scoreline. 

Burdekin FC Reserves were a little bit light on for troops this week due to injuries in both grades, but the coach was confident that the squad taking the field could do the job of getting a win on Sponsors Day. Burdekin started well dominating possession creating several clear chances during the first half hour but couldn’t convert to goals. The subs bench provided some extra energy and at the 30 minute mark an excellent corner from Jhett Jones was headed in by Connor Brown. The rest of the half was the same story with goalkeeper Luke Mottin only called on for one good save to deny a Saints counterattack. It was a different game in the second half playing into the wind, good field position was much harder to get as the amount of possession swung back in Saints favour. The Panthers defence was resolute and absorbed a lot of pressure. Midfield worked hard and gave the forwards opportunities to make counter attacks but there was no change to the score and the Panthers had a well deserved 1-0 win.

The Austral Masonry Funkies played out a six goal thriller against Estates on Friday night at Burt Street Football Park. Burdekin were on top early moving the ball around well and getting in behind the Estates defence with a number of through balls. Unfortunately, none of these breaks resulted in a goal. Estates had a couple of chances that were shut down by some scrambling defence and the teams went to the half time tied at 0-0. Burdekin went behind early in the second half after a ball was not cleared  from a corner. This rattled the Funkies, and they conceded a second goal two minutes later from almost the same spot. Burdekin then lifted and were rewarded when a shot from Jack Shears took a deflection from a defender and went in after 61 minutes. Estates restored their two goal lead in the 68th minute and then tried to see out the game by slowing it down. The Funkies struck again in the 74th minute with a goal from Alec Contzonis and Jack Shears then equalised in the last minute. A good draw for the Funkies after twice being two goals down. Burdekin have a catch up game at home on Tuesday night against Brothers.

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies were fired up and ready to go as they held the main game time slot on Saturday. In front of a huge crowd, the ladies showed great enthusiasm and promise as they attacked hard and fast. Sienna Lago set the pace following a ball in the back of the net opening the scoring for the ladies in the 12th minute. Burdekin continued pushing forward and were rewarded with a goal from Ellyana Mugica in the 21st minute. Charley Ruskin put on a brilliant performance in goal for the first half, keeping the girls in the game and saving many crucial shots. In the second half, the Ladies continued to push forward but couldn’t manage another goal. In the 67th minute, a freekick just outside the Burdekin penalty area allowed Saints to score. The Burdekin showed determination in defence and in attack were unfortunate to not add another goal but came away with a 2-1 win in their last home game for the year!

The Under13 & Under15 Panthers did not have matches last weekend.

Masters

Had another good turn out and in a pre-play of the Olympics semi-final Spain thumped Morocco 4-0. Just two more weeks of Monday Night Masters before 2024 season winds up. Delta Cleaners Night Soccer begins its 46th Season on Tuesday 3rd September.

Juniors

Juniors had local matches on Saturday.  Townsville teams recommence coming down this weekend for the next four weeks.  Our breakup and final local games will be on Saturday 7th September.  Enjoy what is left of the rest of this successful season!

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The highly anticipated Delta Cleaners Night Soccer is set to kick off on Tuesday, 3 September, at International Park. This Six-a-Side competition is open to both Men's and Women's teams, with all players required to be over the age of fifteen. Nomination forms are available at Delta Cleaners, InterSport, and Sportfirst, and must be returned by Friday, 23 August.

Celebrating its 46th season, Night Soccer began in Home Hill in 1979 with the goal of helping the Burdekin Football Club, then known as Ayr Parkside, maintain fitness during the off-season. Initially, the competition featured eight Men's teams. The following year, the event moved to Ayr and has been held at International Park since 1981.

A highlight of the Night Soccer competition is the "Sin Bin," where misbehaving players are publicly named and shamed. These players are benched for three minutes, forcing their team to play with only five members during that time.

Last year, the Night Soccer competition saw a record participation of forty-eight teams, with thirty-two Men's teams and sixteen Women's teams. The season will commence with two trial weeks, followed by group games, and will conclude with the Grand Final on Friday, 13 December.

Contributed with thanks to Cyclops.

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The infamous Sin Bin continues to serve as one of the many highlights of Night Soccer at International Park.

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