04/03/26 Kestrels 1-1 ARU 1s

Match Report:

ARU 1s 1 – 1 Kestrels

Goals: Federico Ganzer

Following Sunday's varsity heartbreak, the Kestrel's were looking to continue their unbeaten form in the league as they push for promotion. Up against an ARU side who sat one place above them, both teams were looking to do one better than the draw they shared last month in the search for the league title - a fiery affair was guaranteed. The Kezzies started off strong, with high intensity and consistent pressure creating many early half chances. A tidy flick from Oscar into a Conal half volley would have been Puskas-worthy, but it was only able to hit the side netting. With Alex bursting down the right flank and Felix running in behind possession after possession, it seemed inevitable that a goal was coming, but it wasn't long before ARU grew into the game. Their best chance came a few minutes before the break - a cutback cross and shot was saved by Craig, the follow up excellently cleared off the line by Lucas. For all the early pressure, it was still goalless at the break.

The second half began more openly, both sides knowing a draw wouldn't be enough and it would be ARU that managed to break the deadlock 20 minutes into the half. A quick goal kick into midfield split the Kestrels open, quickly leaving them in behind. Another fantastic block by Lucas wasn't enough as the ARU winger slotted the rebound in - there was now a game to chase. Unsurprisingly, ARU sat in much deeper from there onwards, allowing the Kestrels to generate more chances with the time left ever dwindling. Going into the last seconds, the game was all but lost, until a freekick was won some 30 yards out. With all players, goalkeeper included, collected in the box, Federico ignored all of them and lofted a gentle ball straight onto the keeper, who managed to fumble the ball into his goal. That would be the last kick of the game, but positive results elsewhere in the league mean that the title could still be won with a win next week against the current leaders, and other favourable results - all still to play for.

UTFK, UTFCUAFC

04.03.26