By Joan Grey
After leading the competition for so long, Franklin United now find themselves in chasing mode, three points behind co-leaders Onehunga Sports and Fencibles United.
Franklin’s unbeaten start to the Lotto NRFL Women’s Championship season was shattered in the previous round by a 1-4 defeat to Onehunga Sports.
Franklin, in the company of Tauranga City and Otumoetai, now have to make up ground as the competition swings into Round 11 this weekend.
Game of the week
Co-leaders Onehunga Sports have the opportunity to ascend to the league’s pinnacle this Sunday.
With Fencibles United’s game being postponed, Onehunga can claim the first position on the ladder if they earn points against Central United.
Fueled by a flawless record of four consecutive wins, Onehunga will be eager to maintain their winning momentum.
But the stage is set for a hard-fought showdown, and in the sides’ most recent encounter, Central United and Onehunga were separated by just a single goal, resulting in a 2-1 victory for Onehunga.
Player to watch
Eight-cap former Football Fern Holly Patterson (29) can ignite the Onehunga Sports attack with her vision, pace, and flair.
Patterson bears an impressive footballing resume and made her international debut at just 17 in 2012.
In her time with Claudelands Rovers, she scored 68 goals in the Lotto Northern Women’s Premier League.
She also further honed her footballing talents with experience playing for Adelaide United in the W-league.
Bold prediction
Taking a bold stance, I can see Manukau United winning against Tauranga City 2-1.
On paper, the odds are in Tauranga’s favour. Manukau are sitting in the cellar of the table, 13 points behind Tauranga.
But last round, Manukau toppled Te Atatu in a morale-boosting 5-0 win, and I think their strong form will continue this Sunday.
Additionally, with such a long distance for the Tauranga travellers, Manukau’s home advantage will surely play a role.
Fixtures
Games to be played on Sunday June 25, 2023
Franklin United v Te Atatu
Drury Sports Complex, Drury, 1pm
Manukau United v Tauranga City
Walter Massey Park, Manukau, 1pm
Onehunga Sports v Central United
Waikaraka Park, Onehunga, 1pm
Otumoetai v Fencibles United
Fergusson Park, Otumoetai, 1pm
*Pitch unfit for play
Joan Grey
Friends of Football writer Joan Grey loves playing and writing about football. She plays football for Franklin United.
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