The invitation team ended up losing 1-0 to what looked like a full strength Waikato FC. Our team was a little unlucky with the goal (it had a hint of off-side) but Waikato should have done a bit better with a couple of opportunities in the second half.

The back four did really well, with Taupo's Raymond How putting in an excellent shift at right-back. Cambridge's Gareth Porter was great in the middle until he was forced off with injury. Ged Parkinson did what he always does beside him. Gary Darkes made a couple of good saves and was unlucky for the goal.

In midfield Andy Birchenough and Shane King were stand-outs, while Tony Wall looked good going forward in an unfamiliar wide role. Jon Allen was strong in middle of the park, all the more impressive given he finished the game with blistered feet. All four who played up front battled well against a strong Waikato defence.

Invitation team (4-4-2): Gary Darkes; Raymond How, Ged Parkinson, Gareth Porter (Duncan Lowry 65m), Duncan Lowry (Scott Parsonage 30m); Shane King (Carlos Rodriguez 55m), Andy Birchenough, Jon Allen, Tama Hohaia (Tony Wall 30m (Tama Hohaia 80m)); Neil Slater (Alberto Romero 30m (Neil Slater 80m)), Grant McIlmurray (Jarred Wilson 30m (Grant McIlmurray 80m)).