The Island Bay Alts FC secured a convincing 2-0 victory against Tawa Reserves in their league encounter at Redwood Park on 26 July 2025. The match kicked off at 2:30pm and showcased the Alts' tactical prowess and determination, leading them to a well-deserved win.
The Island Bay Alts lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while providing ample support for their attacking players. Fred Smith occupied the goalkeeping position, shielded by a back four consisting of Bryan James and Ajay Dhanjee as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Aaron Fed and Connor Hunter partnering as central defenders. In midfield, Bryan Diaz and Harry Demetriou operated as central midfielders, tasked with controlling the tempo and distributing the ball effectively. Ahead of them, Max Walker and David MacIver played as right and left attacking midfielders, while Andy Riley took up the role of the central attacking midfielder, supporting lone striker Jack Scott.
The substitutes for the match included Sean Peetz, Euan Alexander, and Matt Allen, who would later play pivotal roles as the game progressed.
The match began with both teams feeling each other out, but it was the Alts who quickly asserted themselves. Jack Scott received a yellow card in the 14th minute for an unspecified infringement, a sign of the competitive nature of the encounter. As the first half unfolded, Bryan Diaz received a yellow card in the 30th minute for a bad tackle, further intensifying the physicality of the match. Tawa Reserves also found themselves in the referee's book, with two yellow cards issued to their players in the 33rd and 42nd minutes, indicating a heated battle in the midfield.
As the first half drew to a close, the score remained level at 0-0, but the Alts were clearly the more threatening side. The second half commenced with renewed energy from both teams, and it wasn’t long before the Alts broke the deadlock. In the 60th minute, David MacIver found the back of the net with a well-placed tap-in, following a precise cross from Max Walker. This goal sparked jubilation among the Alts players and supporters alike.
In the 65th minute, a tactical substitution saw Harry Demetriou make way for Sean Peetz, as the Alts looked to maintain their momentum. However, moments later, Ajay Dhanjee received a yellow card for a bad tackle, adding to the growing list of cautions in the match. The Alts continued to press for a second goal, and their efforts were rewarded in stoppage time. In the 92nd minute, Max Walker scored with a right-footed strike, assisted by David MacIver, sealing the victory for the Alts.
As the match neared its conclusion, the Alts made further substitutions, bringing on Euan Alexander for MacIver and Matt Allen for Walker in the 93rd minute, ensuring fresh legs were on the pitch to see out the game.
The final whistle confirmed a 2-0 victory for The Island Bay Alts FC, a result that highlighted their tactical superiority and resilience. Aaron Fed and Bryan Diaz were instrumental in the Alts' performance, earning recognition as standout players of the match. This victory not only boosts their league standing but also sets a positive tone for their upcoming fixtures.
