Teams from western Victoria competed in the seven-a-side tournament.

The club’s development officer Rob Lembo said more than 100 players, spectators and supporters attended on the day.

“There were cars around the grounds and we received a lot of support with people manning the barbecue and drinks tent,” he said.

The Stawell Pioneers were out on show in their hometown and their performance did not disappoint.

Spectators on the day were able to watch an extension of the Pioneers as players were rounded up on short notice to field a second home side.

“We had two teams pull out at late notice which was disappointing. We were able to ring around and form another team which was called the 76ers,” Lembo said.

“Some of those players had a great time and are now interested in joining the Pioneers in the club’s challenge to become viable to join a soccer league in 2019.”

The Pioneers got off to a shaky start for the tournament and lost 1-0 to Hamilton.

“We drew our next two games of the day,” Lembo said.

“We came home strong in the last and won the last two games.”

The Pioneers were able to gain the upper hand over Warrnambool, which Lembo said was a really good win.

“Our win over Warrnambool who was the grand finalist and Maryborough who made it through to the finals demonstrates to us that we will be very competitive come the start of next season,” he said.

The team finished second overall and went into the semi-final on the day against Naracoorte.

“We ended up being 0-0 again, the same as earlier in the day. It went down to a penalty shootout where they were able to nab us there,” Lembo said.

Lembo said all the attendees at the tournament were very impressed with the ground.

“Players couldn’t get over how good the ground was to play on. Everyone was keen to come back again next year,” he said.

“We learnt a lot and next year we are hoping to make it even bigger and better.”

The club has also announced a come-and-try day on December 8.

“The day will provide an opportunity for all ages and genders to express interest in registering with the club. We will have the goals set up and a few drills and fun games,” Lembo said.

“We will be using it as an expression of interest and also give the community a chance to come and ask any questions they might have about the club.”

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