Birch Acres Primary dominates Arbor Primary with 10–2 win at Norkem Festival

Birch Acres Primary School delivered a commanding performance against Arbor Primary School on May 17 during the annual Norkem Festival, securing a convincing 10-2 victory.

Despite their best efforts, Arbor Primary couldn’t match the pace and precision of their opponents.

The Norkem Festival is a highly anticipated sporting event hosted from Friday to Sunday, featuring action-packed soccer and netball tournaments.

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This match marked the sixth game for both teams in the tournament and their third match of the day.

Although her team faced defeat, Arbor Primary coach Skye Andersen remained proud of her players and their efforts on the court.

“The outcome of the game was really good, considering how strong Birch Acres is,” said Andersen.

“There are a few things we can work on ahead of tomorrow’s games. I want my girls to see the positives, even in a loss.
We focus on encouragement, motivation, and keeping the vibe positive no matter the results.”

Unlike the usual four quarters, the match was played in two halves.

From the first whistle, Birch Acres dominated the game and gave Arbor Primary a tough challenge. Arbor managed to net a goal before halftime, which boosted their morale, but Birch Acres remained in control.

By halftime, Birch Acres had scored four goals to Arbor’s one.

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Both teams returned to the court with renewed energy in the second half, determined to make an impact.

While Arbor continued to fight hard and added another goal to their tally, Birch Acres pressed on with their momentum and added six more goals, sealing their 10 – 2 triumph.

Coach Sibongile Simelane of Birch Acres expressed pride in her team’s performance but noted there is still room for improvement.

“All I can say is, if you’re a tough cookie, you’ll live, you’ll survive. And my girls are tough cookies,” she said.

“I’m looking for stronger defence and more goals. Obviously, we want to win the tournament. I’m proud of how they played, and I know they’ll go on to do even better.”

Team captain Itumeleng Phaka echoed her coach’s sentiments, acknowledging the tough competition from Arbor Primary.
“The game wasn’t easy, but we played together as a team, and that made a big difference,” said Phaka.

“Playing against taller players is always a challenge, but we managed to push through. They played well, but we were stronger today.”

With this impressive win, Birch Acres has strengthened their chances of clinching the tournament title and continues to be a team to watch.