There are times in football when a 4-1 final scoreline does not cover the full scope of what happened on the day.
Other times it doesn’t even come close.
Strathfieldsaye Colts United is champion once again in the Bendigo Amateur Soccer League women’s seniors, having dispatched an honourable effort from its home-based opponent Shepparton United at McEwen Reserve on Sunday.
However, relying solely on the scoreboard that reads 4-1 would insult Shepparton United’s capability to keep up in the regular 90 minutes and eventually force extra time.
Shepparton United would be soon overwhelmed by Colts’ collective muscle, with three goals piled on in short order during the extra periods after regulation time had the two teams locked at 1-1.
Rebecca Berry was heralded for her role in overpowering her gallant opposition, receiving the Player of the Match award.
Image 1 of 8
Getting involved: Shepparton United's Briarna Fichera sticks a foot in to challenge. Photo by Megan FisherImage 2 of 8
Goal kick: Shepparton United goalkeeper Sheridan Fairless clears her lines. Photo by Megan FisherImage 3 of 8
Fierce challenge: Shepparton United's Emma Buckingham clatters in. Photo by Megan FisherImage 4 of 8
Deflection: Shepparton United's Fatima Sharifi takes a defensive position. Photo by Megan FisherImage 5 of 8
Aiming high: Shepparton United's Olivia Saron curls a ball in. Photo by Megan FisherImage 6 of 8
Pack the house: It was a busy day for supporters at McEwen Reserve. Photo by Megan FisherImage 7 of 8
Collision course: Shepparton United's Alana Murray braces for physicality. Photo by Megan FisherImage 8 of 8
Up and away: Shepparton United's Trinity Cameron connects with a header. Photo by Megan FisherShepparton United head coach Jean-Claude Giuca lamented the misery that unfolded in extra time, but admired his squad’s resolve in taking a near-perfect side to its limit.
“We got them to extra time which was good, but it just didn’t happen for us in the end,” Giuca said.
“(The balance of play) was pretty even in the normal time and I really think overall it was a good tussle between two good sides.
“It was just tough with what happened at the end, that’s all.”
Giuca believes his side will be capable of matching it with the upper echelon again next year after a valiant defeat on the big stage.
“I think a lot of Colts supporters praised our side saying we were the more structured team,” Giuca said.
“That is something to build on for the following season.”
Meanwhile, there was better news at the youth level for the fans in blue.
Shepparton United would not go home empty-handed, with a 2-1 win over La Trobe University ensuring success in the Central Victorian Youth Super Cup.
Farid Azizi would be judged Player of the Match to add an individual accolade to his team’s success.