FHM qualified for the knockout stages out of what became regarded as “the Pool of death” where any 4 of the 5 teams could have easily have qualified. It was only until all the Pool games had been completed that FHM realized they were through to the last 8!  At this stage, after becoming familiar with the conditions and a couple of positional tweaks, the team were finding some extra confidence and started to realize that they were going to be hard to beat.

The Qtr & Semi Finals (played on the same day in 30 degree heat) pitched them against 2 teams that had won every match in the comp but through our defensive strength, team desire and brilliant mature football the FHM boys deservedly booked their spot in the Final after winning 1-0 and 2-1.            

In the Final FHM faced Rochedale who had scored 32 goals and conceded only 5 in 6 games. After undeservedly falling 2-0 behind to goals conceded just before and after half time the FHM boys fought back with a vengeance. With 10 minutes remaining the score line was reduced to 2-1 and for the rest of the game FHM was camped in the Rochedale half.

Unfortunately after a majestic effort the equalizer never came and as the final whistle sounded it was time for Rochedale to celebrate. After congratulating the new champs the FHM boys staggered from the pitch weary legged, arm in arm and with nothing left in the tank but pride. On the day the team was superb in defeat and simply quite outstanding throughout the tournament, winning a lot of new friends and admirers along the way.

Upon lifting the runners-up trophy the team celebrated as though they had won the title. After beating 3 of the top 4 sides (including the defending champs) in their own backyard in 30 degree heat, playing the 11 a-side game for the very first time plus the small fact of becoming the 2^nd best 11^th Grade soccer team in Australasia …why shouldn’t they!! Well done boys.