Back in July, North Companions were only a mathematical chance of making the finals, and are now out of contention, but coach Gavin Thompson said Northies would be “working our guts out to improve our position on the table.”
Since then, Northies have had two wins, one loss and on Saturday they did something no other team has been able to all season.
They claimed a point against the undefeated Tamworth FC with a 1-all draw.
They even came within a whisker of claiming the win, both Thompson and Tamworth FC coach Greg Bartlett said, in a game where both goalkeepers had solid games at the back.
“Our keeper made a very good save late in the game. Their keeper also made some crucial saves as well. It was just one of those games,” Bartlett said.
Thompson added: “Those chances came to us toward the end, we just weren’t good enough on the day to take those chances. That’s the story of our year.”
North Companions were missing a string of players for the match but Thompson said those who filled in did their job.
All in all, Thompson said “it was a good day for the club”.
“Reserve grade sewed up the minor premiership. That’s a feather in their cap,” Thompson said.
“Dylan Langenbaker played in first grade and had a great game. Matt Kelly was probably our best player yesterday.
“Andrew Beer was another reserve grader who stepped up. He also had a great game.
“I’m just very happy with the club spirit. Everyone wants to play for each other.”
Northies took the lead in the first half through a “super goal” from Troy Stibbard who was another player who made the step up and “thrived” in first grade.
Kurt Barrow then scored his 17th goal for the year to draw things level before half-time for Tamworth FC.
The deadlock then couldn’t be broken despite both teams creating chances.
Both coaches said a draw was a fair result. Bartlett was glad FC’s unbeaten season remained intact but would have preferred the winning streak to continue.
“I’m disappointed with the result but not the effort [of the players],” Bartlett said.
“They [Northies] turned up to play as well so you have to give credit where credit’s due. Bartlett added: “We had opportunities and they had a very good opportunity.”
