CARDINIA Shire’s junior soccer battle was claimed by Cardinia United in a 4-1 victory over Bunyip Strikers on Sunday morning.
The Strikers took an early lead, but to their credit the Cougars fought back to equalise through Jackson Lino before Luke Bokos went on a spree.
Bokos drilled three goals – two after half-time – to clinch the match and keep the strong Cougar form leading into finals.
“Great game again – the boys were really pumped for this one as we drew the last one… psyched up for it and were training,” Cardinia United coach Mark Dunn said.
“Doesn’t matter where Bunyip is on the ladder – both teams lift for the local derby.
“We were one-nil down initially and kept plugging away… fortunately we got the goals on the board to take the win.”
While the level of competition and rivalry remains strong between the two Shire combatants, the matches remain in the spirit of soccer.
“Even though it’s the local rivalry, it’s all played in the spirit of the game and is good fun,” Dunn said. “These matches between our teams are always played in the right spirit… I’m sure the Bunyip team would have had a lot of fun as well.”
Cardinia United sits top of the under-13 ladder and faces Seaford on 7 September in a first-versus-second showdown.
Bunyip faces Warragul United in a catch-up round match this Sunday.
