The U13 Juniors made a good start to their Jack Kalson Junior League season at Park Tigers on Sunday, where they were unlucky to be edged out in a seven-goal thriller.

They found themselves 3-0 down on the back of a slow start in which the hosts benefited from a couple of wind-assisted goals, although a strike from Harry Brown reduced the deficit to two at half-time.

A sterling second-half display saw the Juniors the better team after the break, but despite goals from Nathan and Jaiden, their efforts went unrewarded.

In what was the team’s first competitive game at 11-a-side, Owen (pictured) picked up the coaches’ man of the match award for a great effort across the back line, whether playing right back or in the centre.

Full of commitment and effort, he was able to impose himself on the opposition’s attacking play and restrict their forward opportunities, as well as linking play well to the midfield and allowing the team to set-up good counter attacks.

Nathan, meanwhile, picked up the parents’ man of the match accolade for great forward play, as he created some fantastic opportunities as well as getting on the scoresheet.