Report by Jonathan Coles
The 2025 season got off to a challenging start for T&R Interior Systems Thames FC, who fell 5–3 to a lively Waikato Unicol Unicorns side in a high-scoring affair at Rhodes Park.
After a turbulent off-season that saw key attackers Harry Williscroft and Ryan Le Roux depart—taking with them a combined 59 goal contributions—Thames unveiled a new coaching staff and a restructured squad featuring several promising young players.
But it was the newly promoted Waikato Unicol who struck first, capitalising on a sharp start. Nikhail Naidoo opened the scoring, redirecting a low-driven free kick into the net. Minutes later, Floyd Brunskill doubled the lead after pouncing on a spilled cross to blast home from close range.
Thames responded well to the early pressure. Brazilian forward Caio Araujo held the ball up before threading a clever through-ball to Michael Sogo, who slotted a composed finish into the bottom corner. Momentum swung further in the hosts’ favour when Herman Estefan whipped in a dangerous cross that was fumbled by the Unicol keeper and turned in by Araujo to level the match at 2–2 before halftime.
However, the tide turned again in the second half. A controversial non-call on a late challenge against Thames’ winger led to heightened tensions. Soon after, Keegan Apperley received a second yellow card for an overzealous protest, reducing Thames to ten men with 30 minutes still to play.
Unicol seized the numerical advantage, stretching the Thames backline and dominating possession. Naidoo struck twice more from range to complete his hat-trick before Aidan Timbers added a fifth to put the game beyond reach. Thames did manage a consolation through Ben Taylor, who opened his account for the season after a goalmouth scramble.
Despite flashes of promise, especially in attack, Thames will need to regroup quickly if they are to replicate last year’s strong form. Developing their young talent will be key in what already looks like a demanding campaign.
Final Score: Thames FC 3 – 5 Waikato Unicol Unicorns
