In a commanding display of football, The Island Bay Alts FC triumphed over Te Kotahitanga with a resounding 4-0 victory at Te Whaea on 12 April 2025. The match kicked off at 3:30pm, and the home side showcased their attacking prowess, leaving their opponents struggling to keep pace throughout the encounter.
The Island Bay Alts lined up in a 4-1-2-3 formation, designed to maximise their attacking options while maintaining a solid defensive structure. Fred Smith took his position in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Bryan James on the right, Joe Cook and Aaron Fed in central defence, and Ajay Dhanjee on the left. Mark Peters operated as the lone central midfielder, tasked with linking play between defence and attack. Flanking him were David Moffat on the right and Harry Demetriou on the left, both of whom were expected to support the forward line. Up front, Max Walker, Gary Byrne, and Andy Riley formed a dynamic trio, with Walker and Riley providing width and pace, while Byrne played centrally as the focal point of the attack.
The substitutes for the match included David MacIver, Sean Peetz, and Jack Scott, who would later be called upon to influence the game.
The scoring opened in the 12th minute when Andy Riley capitalised on a goalmouth scramble, striking from close range with his right foot to give The Island Bay Alts an early lead. This goal set the tone for the match, as the home side continued to press forward, dominating possession and creating numerous chances.
As the first half progressed, Te Kotahitanga struggled to find their rhythm, unable to penetrate the resolute Island Bay defence. The half concluded with the scoreline firmly in favour of the hosts, who went into the break with a 1-0 advantage.
The second half commenced with renewed energy from The Island Bay Alts, and just three minutes in, Max Walker doubled their lead. Assisted by a short pass from Riley, Walker showcased his individual skill with a solo goal, slotting the ball home to make it 2-0.
In the 59th minute, a substitution was made as David MacIver replaced Aaron Fed, who had to leave the pitch due to injury. This change did not disrupt the flow of the game for The Island Bay Alts, who continued to dominate proceedings.
Just a minute later, in the 60th minute, David Moffat found the back of the net, scoring with his right foot from inside the box. The goal was set up by another assist from Andy Riley, who delivered a precise long pass to Moffat, extending the lead to 3-0.
In the 63rd minute, Sean Peetz was introduced, taking the place of the influential Andy Riley, who had already made significant contributions to the scoreline. Shortly after, in the 69th minute, Jack Scott came on for Bryan James, further solidifying the tactical adjustments made by the coaching staff.
The final goal of the match arrived in the 82nd minute, with David Moffat striking again. This time, he executed a stunning volley, assisted by a well-placed cross from Harry Demetriou, sealing the emphatic 4-0 victory for The Island Bay Alts.
The referee, Wraith Neilson, oversaw a match that was largely dominated by the home side, who displayed a blend of tactical discipline and attacking flair. The Island Bay Alts' performance was highlighted by their ability to convert chances and maintain control throughout the match, leaving Te Kotahitanga with little to show for their efforts.
