United juniors make history

Gippsland United Football Club's under 13 boys Youth State League team has made history, securing the club's first-ever BYSL league championship with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Kingston City FC in the final round of the season.
Gippsland hosted Kingston at Ronald Reserve, Morwell, in a match that came down to the final game of the season. The result secured top spot on the ladder for United and capped off a remarkable campaign for the young side.
In an incredible way to finish the season, the boys showed remarkable composure, belief and determination when it mattered most. They rose to the occasion, finished the season on top and etched their names into Gippsland United history.
The club congratulated every player and their families for their commitment, hard work and unwavering support throughout the season.
Coach Steve Riess said he was proud of the development the players had shown throughout the season.
"The boys have shown tremendous dedication and a real willingness to learn throughout the season. They have continued to develop their understanding of the game, improve their decision-making and grow in confidence, while their talent and ability have been clear to see. It has been really rewarding to watch them develop both individually and as a team," Riess said.
Gippsland United board member Michael Colantuono congratulated the players and their families on the achievement.
"Winning the league is a fantastic achievement for the boys and a reflection of the commitment, character and team spirit they have shown throughout the season. They should be incredibly proud of what they have accomplished," Mr Colantuono said.
Mr Colantuono also acknowledged Riess for his outstanding contribution throughout the season, highlighting his passion for coaching and his unwavering dedication to developing and supporting the players.
The championship capped off a strong final round for Gippsland's Youth State League teams.
The under 14s finished their season with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Kingston City.
Kingston opened the scoring early and held the lead until half time, before Gippsland levelled shortly after the break when Alexander Olijnyk delivered a well-placed corner for Logan Scott to head home.
Yen Ruey then put Gippsland ahead before Scott scored his second after a rebound from another corner, with set pieces proving decisive throughout the match.
The result saw the under 14s finish second on the ladder.
The under 15s also finished their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Kingston. The match was evenly contested, with neither side able to break the deadlock in the first half. Sidney Box found the back of the net early in the second half, with Gippsland holding on for the win to finish fourth on the ladder.
The under 16s were involved in a high-scoring contest, with Kingston eventually claiming a 5-4 victory.
Gippsland's goals came from Archie Halkett-Dobson, Clay McCann-Diston, who scored twice, and Cooper Claridge. The result saw the under 16s finish seventh on the ladder.
The under 18s also finished with a victory, recording a 1-0 win over Kingston.
After a goalless first half, Nick Gafa found the net early in the second half. Gippsland's defence held firm for the remainder of the match to secure the victory, with the under 18s finishing third on the ladder.