Northwind Into 2nd Division Grand Final

September 3, 2008 by Salvatore Capoferri | View Comments (0)

WARRNAMBOOL, Australia. - Canada's national Australian football team, The Northwind, have earned a place in the 2nd division Grand Final of the 2008 International Cup after a strong win today over Japan.

On a cold and blustery day in the western districts town of Warrnambool, it was the Northwind who blew strongest, out-muscling the smaller Japanese team and running out winners by 41 points. The victory over Japan has ensured that Canada will have its highest ever world ranking, with a play-off for 5th spot to be held on Friday in Melbourne.

After a slip up against Ireland, it was the backline that led the way against Japan with Matthew Lowden & Tasos Dimacakos constantly beating their opponents and providing a solid wall that the Japanese players could not penetrate.

Combined with great shutdown efforts from the Broadview Hawks' Rhys Harris and Central Blue Jacob Sone, Canada’s defence was outstanding all day long, ensuring Japan became the third team this tournament to not register a goal against the Northwind.

Japan's only real goal scoring chance came at the end of the first quarter when a set shot from the goalsquare was brilliantly smothered by Lowden, ruining any hope the Samurais had of registering a goal and getting back in the match.

For the third straight game the big Etobicoke Kangaroo, Manny Matata, was outstanding in the ruck, constantly beating his opponents and punching the ball forward. Danny McIlravey came off the bench and instantly had an impact in the centre of the ground with his strength in the packs causing a few concerns for the Japan boys.

Toronto Eagle Kevin Minaker found plenty of the ball and Andrew Garth continued on from his great game against Ireland. George Dimacakos handled the ball well in the cold weather and Mario Pareja played his best game of the tournament.

Other top contributors over the day were West Coast Saint, James Maitland who ran and ran all day long, Scotty Fleming with two important goals and Murray Lovett who kicked two brilliant goals just when his team needed them.

With one match remaining, Canada is now assured of a spot in the top 6 for the first time in their history. With the USA losing today to Nauru, Canada is now the number one Australian football team in North America.

The final score was Northwind 6.8.44 to Japan 0.3.3

Goal kickers for Canada: Scott Fleming 2, Murray Lovett 2, Aaron Falcioni 1, Chris Buczkowski 1

Best players: Tasos Dimacakos, Rhys Harris, James Maitland, Matthew Lowden, Murray Lovett, Manny Matata, Danny McIlravey, George Dimacakos, Andrew Garth, Jacob Sone, Scott Fleming

Reported By Daniel Eddy