Delta United Over 50s men's soccer team escaped the dreary winter weather to participate in the 11th annual Mayor's Gold Cup in Hawaii.
Hosted by the Aloha United Soccer Club, the tournament took place at the impressive Waipio Soccer Complex near Pearl Harbour which boasts 22 soccer fields. The event attracted 10 teams including clubs from Japan, Brisbane, Australia and Southern California.
United was not only up against strong competition and a considerable climate adjustment, the team typically doesn't play together back home and there was only one opportunity to train in Waikiki prior to its first game.
Still, the lads came together quickly and managed an impressive 5-3 win over Brisbane in their tournament opener. Next was a nail biter against Sacramento as Delta stormed back from a 2-0 deficit to pull out a 3-2 victory.
United then faced a tough doubleheader schedule on Saturday in the hot sun. It started with a strong 2-1 win over Maui United with the deciding goal coming on a penalty kick. The locals also played well in the afternoon against San Jose, coming up just short in a 1-0 loss.
The California team went on to win gold while United settled for third place.
"We felt we had the team to win the tournament this year but playing conditions such as heat and resulting injuries hurt us," said manager Jim Norris.
This was United's fifth appearance in the tournament. While Norris takes care of the managing duties, Delta Fire Department
captain Tommy McQuade looks after the coaching.
Tsawwassen resident Mark Roza and Ladner business owner John McCafferty of Thistle Motors have played in the tournament for four years running.
"Playing in hot temperatures is a big change from rainy Sunday mornings but who can complain about that in January," said Roza, who usually plays for Richmond United. "It's about playing new teams and adjusting to new teammates in a short time frame. I love the challenge."
Determined to bring the Mayor's Gold Cup home to Canada, Delta United will return to Honolulu in 2016 to play again.
