A young Westlake Girls football team reached the Round of 16 at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Nationals in Taupō after an impressive group-stage campaign in which first place was decided only on goal difference.
Westlake finished second in its group to progress to the knockout stage, where a tightly contested match against New Plymouth Girls’ High School was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout. The result brought Westlake’s tournament run to an end, with the team placing 16th overall.
Year 10 students Neeva Harvey, Mae Shaw and Vanessa Harrison each found the back of the net during the tournament, highlighting the exciting young talent developing within the squad.
The tournament also marked the final national campaign for Year 13 players India Munro, Mia Ishihara and captain Olivia Buxton, whom we thank for their contribution to Westlake football.
We also farewell Year 12 student Ruby Harwood, who is moving out of Auckland. Ruby marked her final appearance for Westlake in memorable fashion by scoring her first goal for the school.
