A long range shot from Pettersen and composed goal from Fleming gave the Pretenders a hard-fought win at Te Whaea on Sunday afternoon.

In positively balmy and windless conditions compared to last week's snowstorm, the Rubys surprised with two quick attacks right from the kick-off but the Pretenders soon got into their stride with several attacking manouevres in the first half hour.  Pettersen and Bowan started up front with Fleming and Boyd in the centre.  The Pretenders had the privilege of Leslie from the womens 2nd team in the centre back.  The Pretenders had more opportunities in the first half but it wasn't until the 27th minute when one such opportunity paid off.  Pettersen got the ball several metres outside the box and took a shot which looped into the back of the net.  

The Rubys were far more formidable than their previous outing against the Pretenders and managed to keep the Pretenders at bay for the remainder of the first half despite a very good opportunity towards the end of the half with a loose ball that was eventually cleared out of the box.

 
The Rubys had a good opportunity not long into the second half which was saved by Bassett.  The Pretenders continued to attack and, after a handball by the Rubys, Pettersen stepped up for a direct free kick which went just wide of goal.  Five minutes later the Rubys had their best chance with a shot on goal that Bassett batted away, it fell back to one of the Rubys and rolled dangerously across the goal face when Fleming managed to clear it.  A minute later a similar manoeuvre resulted in Basset making another heroic save which no doubt contributed to being named the Pretenders player of the day. 

Within the last 15 minutes of the game, Fleming managed to sneak a ball through at least four Rubys and into the net.  Not only did she leave her mark on the game but also her blood on the pitch as she had to come off soon after due to a knock to the nose.  No further goals were scored but Bowan made some impressive runs up the wing, cutting several Rubys down in her path.  Boyd and Dale staved off any further attacks on the Pretenders goal and Leslie did some great work in the middle booting the ball up the field.  

McKerchar was a close contender for player of the day had she not been late.   Coach McCarthy unkindly suggested that McKerchar had been seen earlier that morning doing the walk of shame but she quickly set him straight... it was the stride of pride.  And the Pretenders too should be proud for their hard-fought win... 

Next week they play Tawa away in what is technically the third place play-off.  Previous encounters with Tawa have resulted in a 2-4 loss and a 0-0 draw.  
Stats:  With one game of the season to go Pettersen and Fleming are neck and neck with 12 goals each - who will get our golden boot?  Although Fleming had a late start to the season, Pettersen was also struck down with illness for a number of games.

Team:  Bowan, Leslie, Fleming, Cutfield, Hodder, Boyd, Dale, Pettersen, Zwartz, McKerchar, Wallwork, Bassett, Guerra, Bradley

Rubys 0 - 2 Pretenders FT

HT (0-1)

Pettersen 27 Fleming 77