The unseasonably warm conditions on the weekend may have been a challenge but competition was already sizzling at Harrison Park during the Parkes Sixes Soccer Tournament. In just its second year, 16 teams and more than 150 players, forming 10 men’s and six women’s sides, signed up for the tournament. Following on from the success of its inaugural event, the competition was extended to two days and with more players this year it proved the right move, Joel Cowling said. Teams came from Parkes, Peak Hill, Dubbo, Orange and Gulgong. "The tournament was a success," Cowling said. "While it was a warm weekend, teams continued to play the sport they love showing great teamwork and sportsmanship. "We had players from many surrounding towns and even a few from the ACT. "There were lots of supporters which made for a nice family atmosphere." Dubbo Macquarie United Football Club Blue won the men’s first division, beating Pinnacle FC of Orange 3-1. Dubbo Macquarie United Football Club White placed third and Coachy Jaguars came fourth. Parkes Raptors won second division beating Pathetico Madrid of Dubbo 4-2. Freddy’s Magpies of Dubbo won the woman’s competition beating the Dream team of Parkes 3-0. Parkes Leagues Club Raptors played NW Angry Birds for third and fourth place in the women’s competition. The result was 0-0 at full time so Angry Birds were declared the winner based on a count back. Cowling said competition was strong this year which allowed players to test their fitness and ability. He and his team of organisers were so thrilled with the weekend's outcome, they're aiming to attract even more teams next year. "We have been growing the tournament for the past two years and have the capacity to scale the event," Cowling said. "This will be our aim over the next few years as we can see the potential of marking this on the football calendar annually. "We are also appreciative of the support we have received from the Dubbo Sixes competition which is an end-of-season competition that runs annually in October, hosted by Macquarie United Football Club. "Between the two competitions we should be able to provide tournaments to the region at the start and end of each season, a great outcome for the region." Cowling said the teams that attended over the weekend have showed their excitement for next year's tournament.
