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    • Events
      • 2016 Hilton Petone Cup Sunday 14 February Round 1: Stop Out A vs. BNU 3pm, Memorial 1 Sunday 21 February Round 2: Island Bay A vs. BNU 3pm, Wakefield 1 Sunday 28 February Friendly: BNU vs. Upper Hutt City A 3pm, Maidstone Sunday 6 March Round 4: Lower Hutt City A vs. BNU 1pm, Memorial 1 Sunday 13 March Round 5: Tawa A vs. BNU 3pm, Wakefield 2 Sunday 20 March Final: TBC 1pm, Memorial 1  BNU Club Open Day Saturday 12 March 2pm - 6pm at Wakefield Park Activities include friendly games between various teams, draw TBC. BBQ food & drinks available. Would be great to see all teams there.  2016 End of Season Prizegiving Saturday, September 10 at 7pm  2016 Annual General Meeting Wednesday 9 November  

    • Women's Central League: Valeron v BNU,16 August 2015
      • Women's Central League Valeron Wanderers 1 Brooklyn Northern United 1 Skoglund Park (Palmerston North), 1:00PM, Sunday 16 August 2015 Match report by Phil Clayton. BNU entered the match knowing that a victory was needed to provide a chance to escape from relegation. Valeron Wanderers knew that a draw or win would mean they finished above BNU and would escape relegation. The match was transferred from Memorial Park to Skoglund Park, and the bumpy, soft pitch meant that players had to be careful with their technique. Valeron had three early chances but where thwarted by BNU goalkeeper, Alex Karantze, or some wayward shooting. BNU had early chances too, and it could have been 2-2 within the first ten minutes. Melissa Prattley had her long-range shot caught by the Valeron goalkeeper after she was first to reach the ball as it was cleared after a BNU corner. Tania Grunwald sent a perfectly-weighted through ball to Sophie Wilkinson, but the BNU striker was unable to hit the target, shooting over; possibly the ball had hit a bumpy patch. Fiona Pou also shot over the crossbar from another corner delivered by Grunwald. BNU took the lead in the thirteenth minute, Wilkinson outpacing the Valeron defence and shooting powerfully past the goalkeeper. There were chances for each side in the remainder of the half. Alex Karantze was making some great saves to prevent Valeron from scoring, and there were several passages of play from BNU with great build-up and passing involving Prattley, Wilkinson, Grunwald, Steph Wheble, and Fiona Pou, unfortunately the finishing wasn't to match the build-up and the lead remained at one goal. Valeron were being caught offside many times. But on several of the occasions where they did time their runs, the pace of Lauren Bailey at the back for BNU came to the rescue. BNU dominated most of the second-half and looked to be heading for victory if only they could get a second goal to seal it. Some great play and build-up again from BNU, but not the finishes. One move saw Prattley touch the ball back to Jo Bishpan (who had moved from central defence to midfield as part of a halftime shuffle). Bishpan's shot went wide. Bishpan had a shot on target shortly afterwards after a Grunwald free-kick hit the wall. This time the Valeron goalkeeper caught it. The save of the match came from the Valeron goalkeeper midway through the second half. Matisse Mitchell (who appeared as a sub at halftime) won a corner and, following good work between her and Pam Buchanan (another halftime sub), Juliet Conway hit a powerful shot which the Valeron goalkeeper reacted quickly to; making a diving save to put it out for another corner. The feeling was that had it gone in, BNU could have been able to go on to win the match. One of BNU's vulnerabilities this season has been clearing the ball or retaining the ball when playing out of defence. Possession is too frequently turned over in the defensive third. Valeron's equaliser came when a corner was inadequately cleared and Tara Hancock hit a power shot into the top corner from just outside the penalty area. 1-1, with ten minutes to play. BNU pushed forward to try to get a winner and created a couple of half-chances. Pou was fouled and Buchanan's shot from the resulting free-kick was caught by the goalkeeper, and, in stoppage time, Wilkinson sent a shot wide of the near post. The draw wasn't enough to lift BNU off the bottom of the table and automatic relegation after one season since gaining promotion to the Central League. BNU put in some good performances during some periods of some matches this season, but couldn't put them together for a whole match to win the points to avoid relegation. Valeron 1 (Hancock 81) BNU 1 (Wilkinson 13) HT: 0-1 BNU: Karantze; Cross, L Bailey, Bishpan, Prattley, Wheble (Buchanan HT), Grunwald (Heffernan 78), J Bailey (Mitchell HT), Wilkinson, Conway, Pou.

    • Women's Central League: BNU v Massey, 09 August 2015
      • Women's Central League Brooklyn Northern United 1 Massey University 9 Wakefield Park 1, 1:00PM, Sunday 09 August 2015 Match report by Phil Clayton. Massey no longer able to win the league, and the only results to have any potential effect on this year's league placing for BNU were a win or loss by more than 30 goals. It was a match for Massey to experiment and for BNU to try to put in a performance better than the previous meeting won 10-0 by Massey. Massey played some players out of their usual positions but still retained their structure. Jane Barnett started the first half playing a role behind the front two, and her effectiveness up-front was proven when she reverted to a striker role in the second half when she scored six of her seven goals. BNU had a shot on target in the 12th minute when Sophie Wilkinson had her near post attempt saved by the Massey's goalkeeper's feet. Massey quickly broke to score their first goal a minute later. BNU had two chances to equalise, Juliet Conway's chipped shot went over the goalkeeper, but wide of the goal, and Tania Grunwald's shot from a free-kick hit the defensive wall. Massey made it 2-0 shortly after the half-hour, and scored once more before half-time. Jane Barnett made it 4-0, 45 seconds into the second half, and grabbed another shortly after. Fiona Pou had a shot off-target for BNU before Barnett made it 6-0 to Massey. Juliet Conway scored for BNU. In the penalty area on the left, it looked like she had been forced too wide, but managed to smash a shot high into the net. 1-6 midway through the second half. Massey were soon back on top with three goals in ten minutes (all to Barnett), and a Barnett shot hit the crossbar in the 86th minute. Barnett's goals have her at 33 in 13 matches in the League this season. BNU had raised their game since last time the two teams met, but were undone by making mistakes that were punished by a player who has been in top form this season. BNU 1 (Conway 68) Massey 9 (Barnett 13, 46, 49, 65, 72, 78, 82; Patterson 31; Bridges 38) HT: 0-3 BNU: Karantze; Cross (Wheble HT), L Bailey, Buchanan, Prattley, Mitchell, Grunwald (J Bailey 71), Bishpan, Wilkinson (Heffernan 71), Conway, Pou. Massey's goals 13th minute: 0-1 Barnett. Imogen Boss played ball from centre to the Massey left, Barnett beat the line and cut-in shooting low across the goalkeeper. 31st minute: 0-2 Siobhan Patterson. Cross-field ball from left to right. BNU defender missed a jump attempt to reach ball. Patterson power shot, saved by BNU goalkeeper. Patterson reached ball at narrow angle and shot home, goalkeeper recovering to get a hand on second shot but not enough to keep it out. 38th minute: 0-3 Rhonda Bridges. Cross from left to central just outside penalty area. Bridges reached ball before oncoming diving goalkeeper deftly lifting ball over diving body of goalkeeper, it bobbled its way into the goal. 46th minute: 0-4 Barnett. 45 seconds into the half. Mkylah Wilson ball from left to Barnett through centre, shot low past goalkeeper. 49th minute: 0-5 Barnett. Ball from left behind defence to Barnett through centre, shot low past goalkeeper. 64th minute: 0-6 Barnett. Defensive mix-up with two players getting in each other's way. Let Barnett through centre, shot low past the goalkeeper. 71st minute: 1-7 Barnett. Ball to Barnett through centre, shot low past goalkeeper. 78th minute: 1-8 Barnett. Barnett took the ball wide right, shot high near post from a narrow angle. 82nd minute: 1-9 Barnett. Gorgi Van Lienen ball to Barnett left of centre, dribbled around goalkeeper (to goalkeeper's left), and walked ball into net.

    • Women’s Central League: BNU v Upper Hutt, 02 August 2015
      • Women’s Central League Brooklyn Northern United 0 Upper Hutt City 11 Wakefield Park 2, 1:00PM, Sunday 02 August 2015 Match report by Phil Clayton. Although this was a large scoreline, the BNU performance was better than some recent narrow losses. The hosts enjoyed more possession than the scoreline suggests, but were undone by some quick balls over the top, which the speedy Upper Hutt attackers reached and created opportunities to go one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Ellen Stirling opened the scoring for Upper Hutt after 53 seconds; bursting through the centre, outpacing the defence and shooting past the goalkeeper. Stirling doubled the lead in the tenth minute, this time it was a ball played to her from the right and a shot low across the goalkeeper. BNU were catching Upper Hutt offside on many occasions. Pam Buchanan took a free-kick for one such instance near halfway and sent it to Juliet Conway on the left. Conway cut the ball back to Tania Grunwald but her shot was wide of the near-post. Shortly afterwards, Grunwald reached a flick-on and hit another shot off-target. Emma Main got her first (of five goals) in the twentieth minute to make it 3-0, taking the ball around the goalkeeper and walking it across the goal-line. Emily Morison tried to repeat Main’s round-the-goalkeeper trick, but this time BNU goalkeeper Alex Karantze was too good for her, forcing her wide to the goal line and the chance was gone. Matisse Mitchell had a chance for BNU when she blocked an attempted Upper Hutt clearance and the ball rebounded powerfully but straight to Upper Hutt goalkeeper Cushla Lichtwark. Then came a spell of three goals in four minutes from 25th to 28th minutes. Main using pace through the centre for the first. An unfortunate own goal for the second, where the BNU defender thought they had done enough to catch-up to and block the attacker, only to have the ball ricochet and slowly creep into the bottom corner. Emily Morison scored the third, getting on the end of a chipped ball to the right and shooting past the goalkeeper for 6-0. Morison got her second in the 35th minute tapping in a cross from Main for 7-0. Sophie Wilkinson and Jo Bishpan each had shots from distance for BNU, but had no joy. Upper Hutt were awarded a penalty in first-half stoppage time. Karantze made a diving save to her right to deny an eighth goal. The visitors almost got off to another scoring start in the second half, Karantze tipping a Stirling shot onto the top of the crossbar in the first twenty seconds. BNU right-back Trish Cross came to the rescue early in the second half, having to twice clear the ball off the goal-line, once following a Karantze save and the other heading on the post from corner. Steph Wheble also made a goal-line clearance from a deflected shot in the final minute of the match. Stirling grabbed her hattrick in the 54th minute, with a prodding shot past the advancing goalkeeper. BNU continued to create half-chances. Melissa Prattley made a run from left back and was fouled 30 metres out, left of centre. Buchanan took the free-kick playing it square to Steph Wheble who shot wide. Main scored Upper Hutt’s ninth in the 72nd minute tapping in a cross from Kennedy Bryant at the far-post. BNU went down to ten players for the final twenty minutes, after Fiona Pou was brought off injured with stud marks down her leg. BNU had used all available substitutes by that point. Main beat the goalkeeper to the ball in the 81st minute for ten, and rounded off the scoring 11-0 in stoppage time after receiving a reverse-pass from Morison. This match was BNU’s game in hand; despite the scoreline, BNU still hold a significant goal difference advantage over fellow-strugglers Valeron, but are two points behind. With two rounds remaining, BNU host Massey on Sunday 9 August at Wakefield while Valeron host Stop Out. BNU travel to Palmerston North to face Valeron in the final match of the season on Sunday 16 August, with a possible scenario where the winner would avoid bottom place. BNU 0 Upper Hutt 11 (Stirling 1, 10, 54; Main 20, 25, 72, 81, 90+3; og 27; Morison 28, 35) HT: 0-7 BNU: Karantze; Cross, Bishpan, Buchanan, Prattley, Mitchell, Grunwald (Heffernan 59), Wheble, Wilkinson, Conway, Pou.

    • Miramar v BNU 1sts - 25th August 2013
      • 2pm, David Farrington Park We headed to David Farrington Park to play Miramar in the final game of the season.  Following Saturday's results, we believed a solitary point would be enough to keep us clear of the relegation places.   The game kicked off with the intensity of a cup final.  The Brooklyn crowd were vocal in their support, the large travelling contingent of fans certainly made the lads feel 10 feet tall.  The game was being played at a cracking pace: a strong Miramar side featuring former All White Campbell Banks and current Solomon Islands International Henry Fa'arodo, was being matched by the heroes in red and black.   The first 30 minutes was fairly even.  Both sides were spraying the ball around with confidence and great speed,  the Miramar coach admitting the game was being played at Capital Premier standard.   The deadlock was broken when Miramar smashed a volley from the top of the box after 32 minute s, a quality strike that left Zen no chance.  Miramar doubled their lead 10 minutes later from a free kick, the Miramar player's run not being picked up, leaving him unmarked at the far post for an easy finish.  2-nil down and all to play for.   BNU were awarded a penalty right on half time for a handball in the box.  Paul Sanchez, who has been great from the penalty spot, strode forward with purpose, only to watch his shot go wide of the left hand upright.  The score remained 2-nil to Miramar at half time.   There was calm in the changing room, as we were creating a number of chances and our covering defence had prevented Miramar from testing Zen with shots on goal.  We believed if we kept to our standards we could get back into the game.  The next goal would be the most important of the match.   The 2nd half started at the same pace as the first.  We continued to press high up the pitch to prevent Miramar from getting into any kind of rhythm.  Their increased ball speed certainly tested us and the class and experience of their players was stretching us right across the pitch.  However, we were not giving up without a fight and were rewarded for our efforts when Paul Clune smashed home after 58 minutes to bring the score back to 2-1.  This also bought the crowd back into the game, they had been fantastic throughout.   Ben Goodwin, who had been introduced at half time, went close on two occasions shortly after, with almost identical shots from the edge of the area.  His pace and direct style were causing problems for the Miramar back four.  We were dealt a blow on 70 minutes when Campbell Banks finally got the better of Damian Gurnick, turning on the edge of the area, to beat Zen in the left hand bottom corner.  3-1 down, with 20 minutes to play.  It was time to gamble and throw numbers forward.  We had nothing to lose and everything to gain.   2 minutes later Banks was at it again, losing his marker and slotting his 2nd to make it 4-1 with 15 minutes to play.  You would forgive BNU if heads dropped, but not with this team, the lads weren't prepared to throw in the towel, and in true BNU fashion they fought for every possession and continued to push forward.   Tom Bisley and Ben Purser were introduced, giving us 4 strikers on the pitch for the final 15 minutes of the season.  Tom Bisley went close, not once but twice, but unfortunately shot wide on both occasions.   As we pressed forward, there were inevitably gaps left at the back and Banks completed his hat-trick with 3 minutes to play.  Just to rub salt into the wound, Miramar scored a 6th with the last kick of the game. 6-1 the final score which in no way reflects how close the game was.   As the lads left the pitch, and rightly applauded the large BNU crowd, our attention now turned to the Island Bay vs Seatoun match being played at Wakefield Park.  A Seatoun win would see us clear of the bottom 2.  We received update after update from our Chairman Martin Gray, who was finally able to phone through the result we had all been waiting for, 2-1 victory to Seatoun.   Back in the Miramar clubrooms, there was a mix of cheer and relief as we believed we could now reflect on a season of highs and lows.   Strong performances, in this our last game, from Captain Andy Cochrane, who was all industry and quality in the middle of the park, Damian Gurnick, who put his body on the line time and time again, and Man of the Match Simon Barker, who won everything in the air and reminded everyone of his undoubted talent.   A special thanks to the crowd who really helped the lads dig deep right to the end.  You guys were fantastic!   I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Martin Gray, Adam Brownie and the Committee for all of their support over the last 2 seasons.  Special thanks needs to go to our physio Dan Sainsbury and my team manager Annie Bannister for all of their hard work and high standards set and maintained throughout the season.   Finally, I would like to publicly thank the playing group for their contribution to the 2013 season.  It has been a pleasure working with you all this year.  You have represented this club in the best possible way, on and off the pitch.  You all bought into the plan and genuinely wanted to play football the way it's meant to be played.  Andy Cochrane and Simon Barker led the team each week with class and integrity.  Without them, the task would have been so much harder.  Thank you both.   I look forward to seeing you all this weekend at the Prize Giving.  Hopefully we can sit down over a beer and celebrate what has been an eventful season. Dene Bannister

    • BNU 1sts v Victoria University - 17th August 2013
      • Wakefield Park #2, 3.30pm     Today saw us up against Victoria University with the winner guaranteed safety in what will go down as the tightest league in many years.  With the bottom six teams separated by 2 points, any win from here on out will mean safety from relegation.   Again we started brightly, dictating the tempo and creating some early chances which were not converted.  In the 12th minute Uni took the lead against the run of play. After Zen had made an initial save, the ball seemed to bounce around in the 6 yard box in slow motion before it was swept across the line.   The lads kept  their heads up and continued to dominate the physical battle, with Simon Barker and Ali Luke in particular making some strong tackles, preventing Uni from getting into any rhythm.  You could sense the confidence lifting as we again enjoyed a period of dominance but still could not find that all-important goal. Uni doubled their lead on 29 minutes, again against the run of play.  2-nil down at half time.   The message at the break was one of calm as you could see the effort and attitude was there from the lads.  We needed to shorten our passing game and increase our ball speed in order to create space for our front runners.  The lads knew we could get something out of this game, but definitely needed to be the next team to score.   Uni came out firing at the start of the 2nd half and only a wonderful save from Zen prevented them from extending their lead.  Zen had a fine overall game, pulling out many saves that even drew applause from the opposition.   As we pressed Uni higher up the pitch, trying to force an error, Ali Luke's grit and determination earned us a goal as he slid in to block a clearance on the 18 yard line, deflecting off Ali and beating the stranded Uni keeper.  2-1 with 30 minutes to play.   We introduced George Frost for some fresh legs, in an attempt to overrun Uni in midfield.  The following 15 minutes was extremely even with both sides striving to carve out another clear-cut opportunity.   In desperate need of another goal, we decided to roll the dice and bought on 2 strikers, Ben Goodwin and Ben Purser, with 15 minutes to play. With 10 minutes to play, Uni scored an all-important 3rd goal and then to rub salt in the wound, they scored a 4th in the final minute of play.  4-1 the final score.   While I sound like a broken record, the score did not reflect how close the game was.  The lads deserve a lot of credit for the way they have conducted themselves and the effort that goes into every game as we look for that all-important win.    Zen Unzeitig, Tom Bisley and substitute Ben Purser all had good games.  Man of the match went to Captain Simon Barker who was all energy and effort in the defensive midfield role.    With 1 game remaining, and 2 points separating the bottom 6 teams, our survival hopes rely on us beating Miramar Rangers next Sunday at David Farrington Park, 2pm.  For so long this season, the league title was on the cards, with this run of results, we have a different kind of "cup final" to win next weekend.  Any patriotic support the club can offer would be greatly appreciated.  The lads deserve better than this.  Our squad is full of quality footballers and a team culture that is better than any club at this level.    We will draw on all of our pride, determination and football intelligence to beat Miramar Rangers next weekend and ensure BNU is represented in Capital 1 for the 2014 season. Dene Bannister

    • BNU 1sts v Seatoun - 10th August 2013
      • 2.30pm, Seatoun Park This week saw us travel to 3rd place Seatoun as we looked to bounce back and draw level with Seatoun on points.   We knew what was required and understood how we were going to approach the game.  Again we started the brighter of the two sides in the opening exchanges.  Zen made a wonderful one-on-one save to prevent Seatoun from going ahead.  From Seatoun's 2nd corner of the game, we cleared toward halfway.  Seatoun immediately delivered back into the box, and as Zen came to punch clear, he misread the flight of the ball which ended up in the back of his net, without a further touch.  1-nil down after 11 minutes.   The game was fairly even for the rest of the half, Seatoun's chances limited to corners and the occasional break.  We were passing the ball quicker and our movement was sharp but we couldn't find the final ball to create many genuine chances on goal.  1-nil down at half time.   The message at the half was to stay composed on the ball and be more direct on goal when the opportunity presented itself.  We certainly felt there was space to exploit between their back four and midfield.   Again we started the 2nd half with better intensity and purpose than our opposition.  Unfortunately our own errors in the defensive third cost us dearly with Seatoun scoring not 1 but 2 goals in the opening 10 minutes of the 2nd half.  To the lads' credit they didn't drop their heads, with Tom Bisley and Mat Allen introduced to try and give Seatoun a different attacking threat to think about.   Tom Bisley was determined to leave a positive impression on the game.  His direct running was rewarded with a fine solo goal beating the Seatoun keeper from the edge of the box.  3-1 down with 15 minutes to play.   Its a shame we hadn't played the opening 75 minutes the way we played the final 15.  The game opened up and both sides went end to end in search of the next goal.  Despite some good movement we didn't test the keeper again, and Seatoun put the final nail in the coffin in the last minute.  4-1 to Seatoun the final score.   Despite the loss and our hopes of promotion being gone, the lads can keep their heads high.  They fought for each other and never gave up.  Our attention now turns to our final home game of the season, next Saturday against Vic Uni.  We are 4th = on 21 points and yet only 4 points from the bottom of the table.  The quality of the league means no easy games and this playing group will need to summon all of their BNU courage, spirit and desire to finish the season in the right half of the table.   Strong performances from Walt Boyd, Zen Unzeitig and Man of the Match Ali Luke.   Hope to see you all at the club, 3.30pm next Saturday.  We could use all of your support as we aim for a win to overcome our recent run of losses.   Dene Bannister

    • BNU v Waterside Karori - 3rd August 2013
      •  3.30pm  Wakefield Park #2     This weekend saw us take on 2nd place Karori and having beaten them in the 1st round, we were confident of a repeat performance.   Karori arrived fired up, looking for revenge and took the lead on 10 minutes after we failed to clear a set piece.  The ball somehow just managed to cross the line.  We found ourselves 2-nil down minutes later with an almost identical goal scored from a corner.  With almost our first venture into Karori's half, a training ground move down the right hand side found Ben Goodwin arriving at the penalty spot to smash the ball into the back of the net.  2-1 with 15 minutes gone.  Almost immediately from the kick off Karori had a speculative shot from 40 yards that sailed over Zen's head and into the top left hand corner.  3-1 down and it was starting to feel like one of those days.   That statement rang true on the 30th minute when the referee bizarrely awarded a penalty to Karori for an apparent shirt tug which no-one saw, not even the Karori player!  The Karori players actually thought a free kick had been given against them. Despite Zen getting a hand to the ball, he couldn't stop it from crossing the line.  4-1 down at half time.  A frustrating first 45 minutes, but I was pleased with the players' discipline. Despite being on the wrong end of every call, they were rising above it.  We actually looked quite promising when we were in possession, but failing to shut down Karori's time on the ball left us with a mountain to climb.  Again.  We started the 2nd half brightly pressing higher and harder, you could sense the players believed they could still get something out of the game.  Unfortunately following our nicest move of the game, Karori blocked an attempt on goal and broke away at pace, catching us in transition to score the goal of the game and breaking BNU hearts.  The lads continued to fight and did not give up.  Karori sat deep, happy with their day's work.  Karori did manage to score a 6th goal with 15 minutes to go.  6-1 the final score.  While it was an off day, there were still some positives to take from the game.  Ben Purser played his strongest game of the season and Ali Luke never stopped trying.  Man of the Match went to Ben Goodwin who scored another fine goal and is developing into an all-round player at this level.  We say goodbye to yet another player this week with Phil Elcome heading back to the UK, missing the last 3 games of the season.  A huge thanks to Phil for his leadership and on-field contribution.  With 13 points separating the entire league, we are 3 points off 3rd place and 4 points from bottom, currently sitting in 5th place.  Next week's fixture against Seatoun will not be an easy game but does provide another opportunity for us to stand up and prove we are good enough to finish in the top 3 and not get pulled into a relegation battle. Dene Bannister  

    • BNU v Lower Hutt - 27th July 2013
      •  3.30pm, Wakefield Park     We welcomed top of the table Lower Hutt to Wakefield Park, knowing they would be seeking revenge after we beat them at their place in the return fixture.   It was a special day for the Men's 1st team to mark such an important fixture.  We enjoyed a pre-match meal together and even had a surprise guest with All White Ben Sigmund joining the lads to share his experiences on how to prepare for big games.  A massive thanks to Ben for his time and genuine support for our club.   We were looking to break our losing run from the last 3 games.  It was a high quality match with both teams up for it.  In a very even first half, we had the better of the physical battle, dominating midfield with greater control than we had at any stage this season.  This was the first time I had witnessed this team intimidate the opposition, winning every 50/50 ball.   While we slightly had the upper hand for the majority of the first half, clear cut chances were few and far between for both sides, and any sight of goal we did manage, we couldn't put on target.  We did look likely from set pieces but desperate Lower Hutt defence denied us a deserved goal.   With half time approaching, Lower Hutt took the lead via a scrappy goal that Phil Elcome did all he could to clear off the line, however the referee ruled the ball had crossed the line and awarded Lower Hutt the all important first goal.  1-nil at half time to the visitors.   We remained calm and composed, with the message at the half being to go on with the job.  I was pleased with the majority of our play, but felt we needed to be more direct when through on goal.  We had been guilty of overplaying it in the final third of the pitch.  The lads believed they could get something out of this game.   For all our hard work, disaster struck 7 minutes into the second half, with Lower Hutt doubling their lead.  We introduced Ali Luke on 55 minutes to give us greater defensive qualities and a genuine left foot when getting forward.  We continued to press and squeeze in an attempt to force a Lower Hutt error.  Their ball speed continued to improve and we started to tire.  The effects of 60 minutes hard work were starting to show.  With that we bought on Simon Barker to try and find a spark and a way back into the match.     Lower Hutt continued to gain the upper hand and went ahead again with 15 minutes to play.  A mountain to climb.  With nothing to lose, we changed our shape, bought on Walt Boyd and went 3 at the back, in an attempt to chase the game.     We created a couple of half chances but in general Lower Hutt's scrambling defence denied us any chances of note.  Lower Hutt scored a 4th with 7 minutes to play and just to rub salt in the wound, they scored a 5th with the last kick of the game. 5-nil does not truly reflect just how close this game was for over 60mins.  We were beaten by a better side on the day.  The lads should hold their heads up as they gave everything they could to earn the points.   Strong performances by ball winning midfielder Euan Christie, substitute Ali Luke and Man of the Match Phil Elcome.   Despite the loss, it was disappointing to hear the referees assessor giving feedback to the referee that he had allowed 3 offside goals to be scored.  We recognise that people make mistakes but to have our score negatively affected due to 3 offside goals really does hurt.   We farewell Dean Collins, who heads back to Ireland after this match and Captain Andy Cochrane, who will miss the next 3 games attending his brothers wedding in the UK.  A massive thanks to both Dean and Andy for everything.  We look forward to seeing Andy back for the last game of the season.   With 4 games to play, all outcomes are still possible.  We are 6 points from promotion places and 6 points from the threat of relegation.  The league is so tight this season with any team able to beat another on any given day.  We have an opportunity to bounce back against Karori next weekend, an opportunity we will be well prepared to take.     Dene Bannister  

    • Island Bay v BNU 1sts - 21st July 2013
      •  Wakefield 1, 3pm   After a week off due to bad weather, the lads were keen to get back to winning ways following consecutive losses.  We knew Island Bay would prove to be tough opposition as the form book often goes out the window when it comes to derby games.   We started the brighter of the two sides, moving the ball well and creating several opportunities in the opening 20 minutes.  Unfortunately we failed to hit the target and couldn't make our advantage count on the scoreboard.  Island Bay grew into the game and made us pay when we gifted possession to them inside the box.  1-nil down after 25 minutes.  That should have acted as the wake up call we needed to get back into the game, but unfortunately these warnings were not heeded. With Island Bay's first corner of the match, a run to the front post gave the Island Bay player a free header, leaving Zen little chance.  2-nil after half an hour.  The final 25 minutes of the first half was the worst we have played all season.  We were our own worst enemy, failing to win the physical battle and often giving away possession.  2-nil down at half time and things needed to change if we were to get anything out of this game.  The message at half time was for a more physical approach, needing to dominate the midfield battle and being more composed when in possession.  If we could cut out our unforced errors and be more clinical in front of goal, we felt we were good enough to find a way back into this match.  The opening 10 minutes of the second half was all BNU.  Fierce tackles were being made, our movement was sharper and with the half time words still ringing in their ears, the players were giving a much better account of themselves.  On 58 minutes a mix-up between goal keeper and both centre backs gifted Island Bay the ball and an empty net to finish into. 3-nil down and a mountain to climb.  Ben Goodwin was introduced on 60 minutes, his pace and raw ability would hopefully give Island Bay a different threat to contemplate.  We responded 2 minutes later when Paul Clune was bought down inside the box by the goal keeper, leaving the referee no choice but to point to the spot.  Paul Sanchez confidently stepped up and slammed the ball into the top right hand corner of the goal, 3-1 with the best part of half an hour to play.   You could see the confidence levels starting to rise with BNU fighting for each other in search of another goal.  They didn't have to wait long as the impressive Ben Goodwin made the most of his opportunity calmly finishing inside the area beating the keeper at his near post.  3-2 with 26 minutes to play.  The second half performance was a complete reversal of the first. Even though we will play more attractive football during the season, this was a battle that everyone was up for.  We squeezed higher up the pitch, Euan Christie single-handedly winning the physical battle in midfield and Paul Sanchez's energy preventing Island Bay from getting into any sort of rhythm.   It was all BNU and you could sense Island Bay's nerves were getting the better of them.  We created several opportunities but were just not accurate enough in front of goal to find another break through. After 8 weeks out with injury, Simon Barker was introduced with 10 minutes to play.  He was almost an instant hero with an opportunity to snatch a point with 5 minutes to play, but unfortunately his shot went wide.   With that the final whistle blew, finishing 3-2 to Island Bay.  The lads were rightly dejected having now lost 3 games in a row.  While we are genuinely disappointed, upon reflection there was plenty to like about our second half performance.  We are yet to be beaten by a better side this season, our own mistakes have been our downfall.  Standout performances from Euan Christie, Tom McCann, Paul Sanchez and Man of the Match George Frost, who at 20 years old is a bright prospect for this club and with the right coaching will develop into a top central league player.   We accept and realise the success of this years 1st team will be determined by results.  While results have gone against us in recent weeks, the attitude, ability and belief will not diminish in this team.  The hard work of the entire playing group has been evident since January.  With season-defining games coming up in the next few weeks, there is plenty to play for, with rewards on offer if we play to our potential.  Next week sees us play Lower Hutt at home, 3pm on Saturday.  Your support means a lot to the lads and we look forward to seeing you around the club. Dene Bannister

    • Nth Wgtn Tawny Ports v BNU Pretenders - 14th July 2013
      • Alex Moore 2 1-1   The sheer miserableness of the conditions at Alex Moore 2 this Sunday have inspired this match reporter to pick up the pen again. For on this day sleet was forecast, winds gusted to 130km/hr and the wind chill factor meant the temperature felt like 1 degree Celsius (with the Met Service recommending 4 layers of clothing including 1 windproof one).    Although we can ascribe a lot of the blame to Capital Football for refusing to cancel the Womens 3 2nd Round fixtures despite most other grades being postponed, we also have to foot some of the blame. After all, we were asked by the other team before the game began if we wanted to go ahead (with no nets, as they gave up trying to put them up in the wind!) But by then we had all got ourselves to J'ville, into our kit and had been warming up in the changing rooms with a mix of Riverdance moves, jazzercise, moshing and something called "Daniel dancing" which Jenny explained involved lots of flailing of arms. Before making a final decision we took a run around the field to ascertain the conditions. At that point, although windy it was not yet raining and the field seemed a little bit muddy but no worse than Happy Valley on a good day. We decided we should go ahead but suggested maybe 30 minute halves. We were informed we would play a full game.   We had a team of 12 and no dedicated goalie, they had the bare 11 and a whole lot of resentment that we had decided to forge on with the game. We had our coach and the trusty Greg as our lone supporter (with beers and no-one to share them with - not even Daniel who may or may not have been a bit seedy from the previous night). Their supporters sheltered by a shed in full waterproofs on the other side of the field. We had the (considerable) wind at our back for the first half and after about 15 minutes the goalie was lured out, wrong-footed in the mud and Wendy dribbled around her and scored.    They had a few breaks and shots on goal but the mud slowed down enough of the shots to be easily saved or they shot wide. After about 30 minutes the rain really began to come in and turned to hail. There was much cursing and appeals to the ref to cut the half short. Eventually he gave in and the first half was called at 38 minutes. We ran to the changing rooms for a quick talk from Daniel while people applied further waterproof layers under their kit. Some people thought the game had been called off and were disappointed to discover that it was only half-time.   Second half kicked off and this time we were against the wind and Kirsten (who was doing second half goalie duties) faced an onslaught pretty promptly. Goal kicks were challenging and Daniel's yelling to "go wide, go wide" mostly fell on frost-bitten ears. The rain came again and soundbites such as "Holy fuck, is it hailing again?" resounded around the pitch. Kirsten made a great save but it was hard work getting the ball out for goal kicks let alone into their half. In the ping pong play a ball hit Sheree's shoulder around the vicinity of the box - most of us thought it was outside the box so were expecting a free kick but alas it was a penalty. Kirsten went the right way but unfortunately the ball was a little bit faster and they scored. They almost scored again soon after but the ball hit the bar and bounced down and wide. By this time most people had numb hands, couldn't form words properly around their blue lips and the mud sucked stubbornly at our boots like a clingy lover meaning any chance of a skilful pass was but a dream.    Eventually, after the ref became concerned that players were becoming hypothermic he called the two captains together and the game was called off at 1-1 about 15 minutes into the second half. Despite whinging the whole time about the game being played in such conditions, the North Wellington players took this badly as their captain had apparently promised that the show would go on whatever the weather and we had insisted we play in the first place. Nevertheless, we were more than happy to return to the changing rooms, try and restore our body temperatures under the lukewarm showers and fumble awkwardly with our clothing with our freezing fingers.   This was Jenny M's last game for the rest of the season, and we thank Mila for making an appearance despite the conditions. Kudos also to those people who must have had hangovers from the night before after our team dinner but didn't even complain. My pick for player of the day would be Kirsten for her brave work in goal in second half and her fashionable and effective rubbish bag clothing.    As at the time of writing, we remain 3rd on the table (although some results have yet to come in). Bring on next week's bye!    Naomi Wallwork

    • Tawa v BNU 1sts - 6th July 2013
      •  Kura Park, 12 noon   This week saw us travel to a wet and windy Kura Park to take on Tawa.  After last week's disappointing result, the lads had trained well during the week and were ready for a big performance.  Unfortunately the conditions were a real leveler with winds of 100km+ impacting our ability to play our brand of football.  We played into the "breeze" for the 1st half, and it was really tough going right from the first whistle.  With the weather ruining any chance of an attractive game, we spent the majority of the 1st half defending deep and being limited to counter-attacking opportunities against the run of play.  Tawa took advantage of the conditions after 13 minutes when we failed to clear our lines, leaving the Tawa player unchallenged at the far post to score from close range.  1-nil down.   The lads, to their credit, dug in and kept trying to play our football.  Unfortunately the final ball was lacking, preventing us from capitalising on any opportunities.   Tawa were rewarded a generous free kick just outside the box on 33 minutes. The Tawa player stepped up confidently and managed to get the ball up and over the wall and into the back of the net.  2-nil down at half time.  Stern words were needed at half time.  The message was to play smarter than we had in the first half.  We changed our shape to press higher up the pitch and keep Tawa camped in their own half.  George Frost was introduced in a tactical switch to give us some genuine width.  We started the 2nd half with better intensity and purpose.  Tawa obviously felt they had enough of a lead and had all 11 men behind the ball for much of the 2nd half.  For all our dominance in possession we just couldn't find a way through.  That was until the 78th minute when Ben Keat, using the conditions to his advantage, swung a corner directly into the back of the net, untouched.  2-1 with 12 minutes to play.  You could sense Tawa's anxiety levels increase and they decided to slow the game down as much as possible, wasting time at every opportunity.  Unfortunately we couldn't break through, the game ending 2-1 to Tawa.  Strong performances from centre back Phil Elcome whose attitude and ability were exemplary, and Man of the Match Tom McCann who enjoyed his best performance of the year to date.  Despite losing 2 in a row, a push for promotion is still our expectation, but the lads will really need to bounce back next week against Vic Uni on the turf.  Special mention to Ben Keat today as he has played his final game for BNU this season before he embarks on his OE next week.  As one of the best players in this league, his ability and X-factor will be greatly missed.  The Reserves put in a gutsy performance despite going down 5-2 down against table topping Wests.  Hedley Stirrat picked up Man of the Match and scored what was a fabulous team goal.  Rom Smith scored his first goal in some time with a well taken free kick.  Looking forward to seeing you all around the club. Dene Bannister  

    • BNU 1sts v North Wellington - 29th June 2013
      • 3.30pm, Wakefield #1     After a week off due to bad weather, we turned up to Wakefield Park refreshed and ready to take on North Wellington.   We certainly started the better side, quickly settling into our rhythm and bossing the game in the opening 20 minutes.  Damian Gurnick made our advantage count in the 22nd minute, heading home at the far post from our first corner of the game.    While we were playing the superior football, neither the final pass or shot on goal had the execution required to extend our lead.  North Wellington slowly found their feet and got better as the half went on.  They managed to draw level in the 41st minute with a smart finish beating Zen at his near post.  1 all at the break.   We were pleased at half time with the way we were playing and knew the game was there for the taking.  We wanted to keep the ball for longer periods and apply pressure to their back four.   The 2nd half started much the same as the 1st, with BNU creating plenty of opportunities, it was beginning to feel like it could be "one of those days".   North Wellington changed their shape in an attempt to win the midfield battle.  In the 76th minute, we gave away possession in our own half and were punished by the ensuing breakaway.  2-1 down and all to play for.   From that point on the visitors shut up shop and played with 10 men behind the ball.  We threw numbers forward in the dying minutes, in an attempt to salvage a point. Today wasn't to be our day, the final whistle being greeted with contrasting emotions.  North Wellington celebrated like they had won the World Cup, with our guys being quite rightly dejected, knowing our own mistakes and poor finishing had cost us 3 points.   This was a tough loss to take as I was happy with large parts of our game.  Good performances by Phil Elcome who was solid at the back and Man of the Match Walt Boyd whose tireless running and movement off the ball was largely under-utilized throughout the game.   Our first loss in 6 games means we have slipped to 2nd on the table, with Karori and North Wellington breathing down our necks.    Next week sees us away at Tawa.  I know the lads will be hungry to bounce back in an attempt to stay ahead of the pack.  I am already looking forward to what will be an intense training session on Tuesday.   Dene Bannister

    • BNU 1sts v Kapiti Coast United - 15th June 2013
      •  Weka Park, 2.30pm   Another week and another must win game as we travelled to Kapiti for what we knew would be a tough encounter. The boys had looked tired in training during the week and with Kapiti having lost their last 3 games, we knew they would be desperate to find some form. The warm up did nothing to ease my concerns, as we looked a bit off the pace.  However we switched on from the first whistle and quickly set the tempo pressing high without the ball and moving the ball sharply to find space in behind Kapiti's back four. We took the lead in the 7th minute with our first shot of the game, Paul Sanchez's curled shot from 25 yards bending away from the keeper leaving him no chance. His celebration (or lack thereof) told me the guys were focused and keen to go on with the job.  We continue to improve week on week and the first half performance of this match showcased all of that improvement, as we kept the ball for long periods, showing patience and composure, giving a thorough examination of Kapiti's defence. For all our dominance in the opening 25mins, we hadn't managed a 2nd goal. In the 30th minute, we did break through, with Phil Elcome rising above all others in a crowded goal box with a powerful header scoring from our third corner of the match.  While we were taking our chances, the same couldn't be said for Kapiti, who were wasteful in front of goal. Centre backs Damian Gurnick and Phil Elcome were courageous in defence blocking several Kapiti shots from the edge of the area and with Ali Luke patrolling in front of them, we were proving difficult to break down.  We continued to play attractive football, with the front fives fluidity of movement and interchangeable shape making life almost impossible for Kapiti. They simply couldn't live with the tempo we were dictating. Paul Sanchez, Ben Keat and Andy Cochrane (c) were dominating the game.  BNU weren't done and scored a great team goal in the 41st minute. With Kapiti trying to play the ball out, our high pressure game paid off with Andy Cochrane winning possession on half way. This started a wonderful move down the left hand side involving the impressive Walt Boyd, Paul Clune and Paul Sanchez. The move was completed with a crisp left footed shot by Dean Collins, 3-nil up at half time. The message at half time was simple - more of the same please. We knew what to expect from Kapiti as they had no choice but to come out and throw everything at us.  The first half was all about our crisp pass and move game, the second half was all about dogged defence and grinding out the result. Kapiti enjoyed the majority of possession, but couldn't find a way through. Ali Luke clocking up the miles in midfield and Zen Unzeitig again showing his class with some fine saves throughout the second half.  With legs tiring, Ben Purser was introduced in the 63rd minute. His pace, trickery and ability to hold up the ball gave us something different going forward.  Kapiti's continued pressure was finally rewarded with a goal after 76mins and seemed to re-energise the home side. Our defensive efforts had taken their toll with Tom Bisley and Ben Goodwin being introduced to give us fresh legs. Kapiti managed a 2nd goal minutes later to set up a nervy final few minutes but we would not be beaten. Not today. Final score 3-2 to BNU. Strong games by Paul Sanchez whose energy and drive had Kapiti chasing shadows, Phil Elcome enjoyed a fine defensive display and Man of the Match Andy Cochrane's passing and creativity was a class above. Another game of two halves against Kapiti. This fixture is never dull and seems to bring out the best in both teams. The victory sees us continue our run of good form, having won our last 5 league matches. With other results going our way, we are level with 1st place Lower Hutt, with a game in hand. Next week sees us head to Seatoun in another potentially difficult fixture. Any support you are able to offer would be greatly appreciated as we look to remain at the top of the ladder. Look forward to seeing you all around the club. Dene Bannister

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