Kahibah's Century-Old Dream Enhanced by Dutch Talent
In a significant development for the historic club, Kahibah FC's long-awaited entry into the Northern NSW National Premier Leagues has been bolstered by the arrival of two key Dutch players. The club, which celebrated its 100-year anniversary last season, achieved promotion for the first time in its century-long history, and now looks to make a strong impression in the top tier with international reinforcements.
Immediate Impact from New Arrivals
New Dutch import Jilles Bos wasted no time demonstrating his quality during a recent pre-season friendly against the Jets under-20s. The 21-year-old winger showcased his technical ability by gliding past two defenders, cutting inside, and unleashing a powerful strike from 25 metres that forced an impressive save from the goalkeeper. Kahibah went on to secure a convincing 3-1 victory in the match, which featured a predominantly youthful squad of 16 and 17-year-old players.
Coach Blair Newham expressed his enthusiasm about Bos's potential, noting that despite the player's recent arrival and need to adjust, his technical skills in tight spaces and rapid pace would make him a formidable weapon in attacking situations. "He has that little bit of quality," Newham remarked, highlighting the immediate impact the young Dutchman has made since joining training sessions.
Returning Experience and Leadership
The recruitment of Bos was facilitated by fellow Dutchman Justin Houtzager, who has returned for his second season with Kahibah after being named the Rams' player of the year and earning media recognition as the best player in Northern League One last season. Houtzager explained that the club's historic promotion played a crucial role in his decision to return for another campaign.
"It felt like unfinished business, winning the league and going up to the NPL for the first time in 100 years," Houtzager stated. The 26-year-old defensive midfielder noted the differences between Australian and Dutch football styles, expressing his preference for the physical nature of the game in Australia and the opportunity to play on natural grass surfaces rather than synthetic pitches commonly used in the Netherlands.
High Expectations for the Season Ahead
Houtzager has high expectations for his compatriot, predicting that Bos will contribute significantly with both goals and assists throughout the upcoming NPL season. Having played in the fourth tier of Dutch football, Bos brings valuable experience and a proven ability to score from distance while remaining dangerous inside the penalty area.
Bos himself acknowledged that the opportunity to compete at a higher level following Kahibah's promotion was a major factor in his decision to join the club. "Winning promotion made it exciting to come here because you are playing at a good level," he explained, adding that he expects his game to improve through competing in the NPL.
Historic Milestone Approaches
Kahibah will mark their historic NPL debut in just two weeks when they face Lambton Jaffas at their newly developed $4 million Harold Knight complex. Coach Newham described the growing sense of anticipation within the squad, noting that players are particularly motivated to be part of the club's first-ever NPL lineup.
"You can see the ambition in the players," Newham observed. "They all want to be a part of that night. That makes the coaching staff's job difficult selecting squads. It will be a massive occasion for the club. One that a lot of people have worked hard at for a considerable time."
The combination of returning experience, promising young talent, and international imports positions Kahibah FC for an exciting inaugural NPL season as they seek to build upon their historic promotion and century of football tradition.
