Football Ferns surprise local footballers

It was a weekend to remember for the Nelson Suburbs women’s team got their season off to a strong start.

On top of a 2-1 opening game win over Halswell FC, the team got prime seats to watch the New Zealand Ferns take on Thailand in Christchurch.

They also met three of the Ferns at breakfast before their own game, with coach Neil Harding saying it was the perfect start to their season.

“Beating a strong team away, we dug in deep and played well to keep the win.”

With goals to Emily Luer and Gill Morgan, the team returns home this weekend to face NW(Nomads/Waimak) United on Sunday at midday.

While the men’s team were unlucky to come away with a 3-3 draw against Coastal Spirit in a game that could have gone either way.

Alex Ridsdale would hit the bar looking to lob it over the keeper, while Nic van Hattum was given a hero's applause after saving a Coastal in the dying moments.

With a win and a draw to their name, the men’s team have started the season on the front foot and will look to continue their form as they travel south this Sunday to play Selwyn United FC.