Northland Pines @ Rhinelander
Sept. 26, 2019

I wanted to compliment both teams on a well-contested conference rematch. There was no trash talking, little grumbling about calls, no challenges/tackles intended to intimidate opponents...just soccer. One particular occurrence stood out during the final five minutes of play, with the score 0-0 and both teams pressing very hard to get the potential game winning score. Pines striker #10 Liam Oas was fed a through ball and was attempting to break on goal; defended by Rhinelander #4 Hugh Wiese and #2 Harrison Shiners. The Rhinelander keeper #1 Gavin Osterman came off his line to defend as well, the keeper secured the loose ball as the four players collided and fell to the ground. These situations - late in the game - can be fraught with emotion, intensity and reaction. Instead I witnessed players checking in with each other to make sure they were "OK"; complimenting each other with a "good play" and helping each other get back on their feet and getting "on" with the game at hand. It was so refreshing to see that. Best of luck to both teams in the remaining season.

Reporting Official:  Rob Hom