Thursday, June 5, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Whitsunday United Show Spirit Across the Park

Whitsunday United junior and senior teams were in action over the weekend, delivering a mix of gritty performances, high-scoring wins, and signs of strong development across the board.

U13 Division 1
Facing the undefeated Country United, the Under 13 Division 1 side showed significant improvement from their last encounter. A tightly contested first half saw both teams locked in a defensive stalemate until the dying seconds, when Country broke through with a long-range strike to lead 1-0 at the break. Whitsunday held firm in the second half, but two late goals from the opposition saw the final score settle at 3-0. Despite the result, the young squad impressed with their resilience and teamwork, with Captain Brook leading by example in a best-on-ground performance. He was well supported by Riley and Parker in defence, anchoring a much-improved effort.

U13 Premier
The Premier U13s also travelled to Mackay, putting in one of their best displays of the season against second-placed Rangers. In a thrilling end-to-end contest, Whitsunday matched their highly rated opponents for intensity, skill and determination, ultimately falling 2-1 in a match that could have gone either way. Jackson Perez scored the goal for United, while Dally came close to levelling with a thunderous strike brilliantly saved by the Rangers’ keeper. Credit goes to Dally, Chad, and Bailey for their tireless efforts across the full match, helping keep the team grounded and competitive.

U14s Dominate
The Under 14s were clinical in their 19-0 demolition of Rangers Black, with Kobe opening the scoring in the third minute and netting five in total. Shannon led the tally with six goals, while Austin, Tyson F, Nick M, Liam, Bailey, and Eli G also added their names to the scoresheet. The team’s passing, movement and unselfish play kept Rangers on the back foot all game, with impressive assists coming from Tyson F and Nick M. Thanks to U13s Bailey and Alex for stepping up and contributing to the dominant performance.

U16s Fire in Crucial Win
In a must-win clash against rivals Magpies, the Under 16s made a statement with a commanding 10-0 win. A penalty conversion in the opening minute set the tone, followed by a second spot kick and a long-range strike that had the boys 3-0 up by halftime. The second half was all Whitsunday, with highlight goals from Jacob and Tyrell among the seven added after the break. Harry notched a hat-trick, Cody scored twice, and Samuel, Kai and Noah also found the back of the net.

Premier Women Hold On for Valuable Win
The Whitsunday Premier Women picked up a hard-fought 2–1 win on the road against Country. Goals from Sarah and Bre in the first half put the visitors in control, though a lapse in concentration allowed Country to pull one back before the break. The second half saw plenty of attacking intent from United, but missed chances and moments of miscommunication kept the scoreline tight. Still, three points in the bag and a solid base to build on ahead of next week’s key home fixture against Magpies.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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