Intercol Soccer Reignited: Tradition Back on the Field

On a very warm afternoon, the SPOC and PAOC Soccer Clubs once again battled for bragging rights in a fixture first played in 1982. Due to the clubs not always competing in the same leagues, this match has often been difficult to schedule - particularly during the Winter Intercol in July, when both teams are managing demanding seasons. This format is a great way to preserve the tradition while supporting each other’s preparations, and we look forward to it continuing into the future

Three games were played on Saturday 14 March at Ellis Park on West Terrace, Adelaide.

In the early game the SPOC C Grade was well in control of their fixture, eventually winning 5-0. Old scholars, Hamish Scobie (WDK 2021), Jude Gale (FLL 2023) and Aidan Makris (HWk 2025), were especially impressive in their debut games and are likely to quickly rise through the ranks at the Club. 

Photo: SPOC vs PAOC: Intercol Soccer C Teams

A very strong SPOC Reserve side played nicely going forward in their game, and eventually finished with a healthy seven goal haul and a 7-3 win. Saints old scholars Jack Foster (YNG 2021), Marcus Sorvanis (MAC 2021), Dejan Dimovic (MAC 2024), Will Renfrey (WDK 2024) and Aaron Middelberg (HWK 2024) were in good form and look set for strong seasons. Some careless defending will need to be addressed but the signs are positive for the season ahead.

Photo: SPOC vs PAOC: Intercol Soccer Reserve Teams

Finally the SPOC Senior team overcame a stern challenge from a promising PAOC side. Again the pace and enthusiasm of our young players gave the team a dangerous cutting edge in attack with old scholars James Theofanous (HWk 2016), Benji Richards (FLL 2024) and Alex McClure (HWD 2024) combining dangerously to eventually give us a solid 4-1 victory. The Senior side expect a very stern challenge ahead in the powerful Saturday Premier League but we are hopeful that pace, fitness and enthusiasm will cover some key position and tactical deficiencies that we'll need to address.

Photo: SPOC vs PAOC: Intercol Soccer A teams

Match Results: 
SPOC Reserve won 7-3
SPOC C Grade won 5-0
SPOC Senior Team won 4-1

A joint decision was made after the game to rename what will likely be a new trophy 'The Roe-Hihimanis Cup'. This acknowledges the fundamental and founding roles of former Saints staff member John Roe, and the former and sadly late PAOC player Michael Hihimanis, in the creation and establishment of their respective Clubs. The trophy match will then be played as a regular part of the pre-season in each year moving forward, as of 2027. 

Christopher Roe (MAC1980)