Rovers switch off early and draw in capital
A lack of focus during the final 20 minutes proved costly for the Napier City Rovers Central League football side today.
Thirsty Whale Napier City Rovers held a 4-0 lead until the 73rd minute of their 10th round clash against North Wellington at Alex Moore Park in the capital. North Wellington scored three goals within a five minute period and then another one minute into extra time to secure a 4-all draw.
The question had to be put to Rovers head coach and centre back Bill Robertson (pictured above). Did the Blues switch off too early with Monday's Chatham Cup fixture against Wairarapa United in Masterton uppermost in their thoughts?
"Possibly. We've got to address the last 15 minutes," Robertson replied.
"We made a few substitutions to rest players for Monday. But the players who came on did well ... more concentration will be needed on Monday," Robertson explained.
The Chatham Cup holders led 2-0 at halftime after goals in the 30th and 34th minutes. Rovers second-half goals were scored in the 53rd and 58th minutes.
Centre forward Cam Emerson scored two goals for Rovers while midfielders Liam Schofield and Zac Madsen scored one each. Emerson had his best game of the season for the visitors.
Madsen's goal came from a superb strike at the edge of the box while Schofield chipped the keeper for his.
"There were definitely moments of quality from our lads. But we're disappointed with the result. We were well and ahead and comfortable for the majority of the game. We played really well until the last 15 minutes," Robertson said.
He pointed out a couple of players have niggly injuries but he was confident they would recover in time for Monday's match. Today's draw means the Rovers have dropped to seventh on the Central League points table.
