Hahndorf V Mt Barker
In the local derby, Hahndorf hosted Mt Barker on an overcast but fine day, the home side making the better of the play to run out 3-1 victors.
Wanting to sustain the momentum from the previous week, Hahndorf started brightly, moving the ball well and putting Mt. Barker on the back foot. Hahndorf’s attack featured Mike Lewington, John Lawler and Sam Heyward, Lewington making his senior debut after some excellent performances in the Reserves.
Supplying the forwards were Club Captain Matt Norris, industrious Ashley Oosh and the reliable Jon Lynn. Lee Stibbs, Wayne Forrester, Todd Newman and Kyle Eglinton kept the defence in order, utilising Hahndorf ‘keeper Mark McGrath as a deep sweeper.
Within ten minutes, the Magpies’ pressure paid off with Stibbs swinging in a strong corner. The Mt. Barker ‘keeper made an attempt to clear the dangerous ball but barely got a touch as it curled straight into the net. The delight of Hahndorf was contrasted by the dismay of Mt. Barker, the visitors taking some time to get back into the match.
However, Mt. Barker pressed forward and put in some shots but they were either off target or did little to trouble the Magpie ‘keeper. Norris was dominating the midfield, his attack on the ball and distribution giving Lewington and Heyward opportunities to add to the score. Oosh and Lynn were disrupting the movement of the visitors while Newman and Forrester strongly repelled any openings Mt. Barker created.
Norris capped off a fine half, finding Lynn with a pinpoint cross and he hit a sweet drive with his left, the ball just passing the wrong side of the post. Hahndorf went into the break in a comfortable position but looking to increase their lead.
The Magpies started the second stanza like the first and soon had a number of chances, Lawler testing the Mt. Barker ‘keeper with a top corner free kick. Norris also tried his luck from distance, his free just going wide as Hahndorf kept up the pressure.
However, the visitors replied with some sustained attacks but Newman and the wily veteran, Forrester were solid at the back, with Eglinton and Stibbs also chiming in with some timely tackles.
With the game drifting towards a Hahndorf win, Coach Steve Handley brought on Brendan Kilpatrick for the hardworking Heyward. The Magpies were forced to make a second change minutes later when the Norris and an opponent had a clash of heads, the combative captain winning the ball and seven stitches for his effort. He was replaced by Stuart Thomas, “El Presidente” slotting into the midfield role.
Kilpatrick put the ‘keeper under pressure with a well struck shot and Lewington continued to harass the defence with Oosh also trying his luck with an optimistic volley from distance. However it was apiece of “Wimbledon route one” football that put Hahndorf 2-0 up. McGrath launched a clearance and with Lewington and Lawler chasing and putting on the pressure, the Mt. Barker defender unfortunately headed past his own ‘keeper.
Soon after, Kilpatrick added a third with his head, the goal rounding off a sustained attack by the Magpies as full time loomed. To their credit, Mt Barker kept trying to breech the Hahndorf defence and finally succeeded late in the game, a solo run resulting in a score for the visitors. With minutes remaining they could have added a second but wasted a golden opportunity when Hahndorf were already thinking of the beer after the game.
In a great team effort, Man of the match was inspirational captain Norris, a ball winning powerhouse in midfield, and solid contributions from Forrester and Lewington were pivotal in Hahndorf’s third win from four games.
Reserves
Hahndorf Reserves paid dearly for their wasted opportunities as a young and eager Mt. Barker side gave the hosts a bath, scoring 5 goals to no reply and cementing their spot at the top of the table.
Hahndorf were aware of their young opponents good form this season and building on last weeks game the hosts started well. Nathaniel Brooke took his spot between the sticks, and before him a defensive unit of Ben Wells, Matt Medley, Andy Craig and the “Italian Maestro”, Edmondo Palombo kept the visitors under control.
Midfielders Lachlan ‘the Albino Yeti” McQueen, Gary Ledson, Andrew Kenny and “the Black Pearl” Owen Boyce moved the ball around well and Hahndorf had the better chances in the first fifteen minutes. Chris Hyde had two good chances at opening the scoring, one shot hitting the crossbar and the other missing to the near post. Fellow striker Tyrone Blunt featured in some moves but Hahndorf failed to capitalise on their possession.
Mt. Barker took full advantage, working the angles to get clear on goal and finishing well to go 1-0 up. Hahndorf put the goal behind them and again took hold of the midfield but further shots went wide or scraped past the post. The visitors again took advantage with two goals in quick succession, both opportunistic shots from distance that dipped under the bar with Brooke beaten.
Going into halftime 3-0 down, Hahndorf were a little shell shocked but believed they still had the passing game to get back into the match. However within five minutes of the restart, Mt. Barker had a fourth, their quick forwards springing free to finish well from close range.
A frustrated Hahndorf continued to build in attack but it was not to be their afternoon, several shots hitting the bar and post as they made good chances but could not capitalise. Substitutes Luke Jones and Kieran Evans helped push the Magpies forward but the final pass or shot was wasted by the increasingly desperate Hahndorf side.
Their match was summed up with fifteen minutes to go, as Hahndorf’s defence moved forward to take what they thought was their free kick. However, a belated decision gave the kick to Mt. Barker and they played on quickly to open up a one on one chance that the young Barker forward took well, slotting past the advancing Brooke.
Best for the Magpies was the ‘Italian Maestro”, Palombo giving all on a testing day. The loss was a bitter one for the Magpies and they will look to atone for the embarrassing loss next week.
In round six, Hahndorf are looking to maintain their winning form and will visit the undefeated Burundi Eagles, a test that could shape the remainder of the season.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Round 4: Hahndorf V McLaren District
Hahndorf V McLaren District
Hahndorf hosted a young but enthusiastic McLaren District for the fourth round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League Third division. In front of a good crowd containing some familiar faces, the Magpies outlasted the visitors for a 3-2 win.
Hahndorf kicked off with the slope at the Pine Avenue ground and enjoyed the opening exchanges, the midfield getting the better of their opposition, with Jon Lynn, Ashley Oosh and Captain Matt Norris supplying Sam Heyward and Shaun Smith with some early sights on goal. Dave Grant also chimed in with support from Lee Stibbs as the Magpies sought to turn their possession into goals.
Wayne Forrester directed his defence with his usual no nonsense approach, Steve Noble and Todd Newman equally miserly in allowing the District players any room. Hahndorf continued to press for goal, the better chances falling to young Heyward. A flowing Hahndorf move saw Grant and Norris link up, the Magpie captain putting in an exquisite cross that Heyward met well, but luck deserted him and the shot cannoned of the post.
However, ten minutes later Norris showed his finishing style, latching on to Smith’s cross at the far post and slotting the ball into the exposed McLaren goal. Norris’ celebratory cartwheel would have barely rated in Olympic gymnastics, but the only score he cared about was the 1-0 Hahndorf had just taken.
Hahndorf then had a period of domination, several shots peppering the District goal. Stibbs sent in a belter from distance that had the McLaren ‘keeper scrambling to keep out, just tipping the ball past the post. Smith’s pace troubled District and Oosh gave the midfield no rest. The visitors were not lying down however and really should have equalised close to half time, Hahndorf ‘keeper Mark McGrath a little exposed and glad to see the shot go wide.
Hahndorf started the second half well, pushing the ball around and blunting the attacks of McLaren District at the edge of the penalty area. Oosh, industrious as always, seized control of the ball and sent Heyward away on a fast break. The talented striker strode into the area and buried the ball past the advancing ‘keeper.
Cruising at 2-0, Hahndorf perhaps took it a little easy and allowed McLaren back into the game. They began to link up through the midfield and put the home team under pressure. They were rewarded with a great goal, a shot from distance arrowing into the top corner and giving McGrath no chance.
Hahndorf coach Steve Handley responded with some tactical substitutions, Heyward making way for John Lawler. Hahndorf steadied and lifted the intensity with Lynn latching on to a scorching drive that the District ‘keeper did well to tip past the post. Soon after, Oosh sent in a fierce cross that eluded everyone and crashed into the goal post.
Then a strange turn of events resulted in a second yellow card and Hahndorf were left with ten men. Under pressure, the Magpies defended well but were let off the hook, the Mclaren attacker through on goal but spraying his shot and failing to trouble McGrath. It was a costly miss and minutes later more misfortune befell the visitors. Lawler and a defender chased a long clearance, the ball bouncing into the area and the pressured defender heading it past his own ‘keeper for an unfortunate own goal.
Despite this, the visitors did not lie down and Hahndorf found themselves in a hard fought finish, McLaren District finding some midfield space and keeping the Magpie defence on alert. Minutes from the end, Mclaren hit another score, the goal a mirror image of the first and driving into the opposite top corner from distance.
However, Hahndorf ran out the remaining minutes to record their second league win of the season to the delight of the home supporters. In an exciting game, Oosh took away the man of the match award, the gladiatorial midfielder a driving force all day.
Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves put together a good performance to comfortably account for an injury hit McLaren District, the final score of 4-1 getting the three points for the Magpies.
Hahndorf looked to continue their strong form from last week and started the match in fine form. Chris Hyde and Mike Lewington were the focus of attack and gained plenty of the ball through the midfield of Andrew Kenny, Gary Ledson, Tyrone Blunt and Rupert Lindon.
Veterans Stuart Thomas and Andy Craig led the defence with Lachlan McQueen and the Italian Maestro, Edmondo Palombo vigilant early on. Hahndorf worked their way forward several times, Kenny finding space out wide and Palombo having a determined run toward goal. However, Hahndorf lacked the finishing touch and some excellent saves by the visiting ‘keeper kept the scoresheet blank.
The visitors settled and pushed forward, giving Hahndorf ‘keeper Nathaniel Brooke the opportunity to showcase his shot stopping prowess, several sharp efforts denied by the big man. Hahndorf tightened up in defence, Thomas and Craig winning the aerial duels but going forward the Magpies were profligate in front of goals.
Their wastefulness was highlighted when McLaren District opened the scoring, a looping ball from out wide just sneaking under the crossbar. Just as concerning was an injury to Lindon in the same passage of play, a severe twisted ankle seeing him replaced by Matt Medley.
The Magpies went into half time a goal down but believing they had the better of the play. Within ten minutes of the restart, Hahndorf drew level, a corner causing panic in the McLaren area and Lewington getting a touch to put the ball in goal.
The second goal arrived soon after the first. Great possessional play by the Magpies put Kenny on a scything run down the flank. He supplied a terrific cross as Hyde got in ahead of a statuesque defender to power a fine header past the District ‘keeper.
Playing well, Hahndorf brought on the Black Pearl, Owen Boyce, injecting some finesse and pace on the left. The Magpies began to dominate proceedings and their task was helped when a District player limped off and was not replaced. The Magpies took full advantage, Boyce whipping in a corner for Craig to dummy, the move surprising the defence and the ball ricocheted off a McLaren player into the net.
When a second McLaren player was injured, the Magpies pushed the advantage, Lewington adding a fourth, racing past the exposed defence to blast the ball past the District ‘keeper. In control of the game, young Josh Hartnett entered the fray and put in a couple of sturdy tackles during his short stint. With time winding down, Hahndorf eased off the pressure, Blunt missing a couple of good opportunities before full time was signalled. In a strong effort from all players, outstanding on the day was Kenny, his match full of running and his crosses superb.
In the Super C’s fixture, Hahndorf took second spot on the table with a 4-1 win over Old Ignatians, the Magpies putting in a fine performance.
Next week the Hahndorf Magpies will want to maintain their winning form when they host arch rivals Mt Barker. In what should be a challenging derby, both Hills teams will be after the three points and local bragging rights.
Hahndorf hosted a young but enthusiastic McLaren District for the fourth round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League Third division. In front of a good crowd containing some familiar faces, the Magpies outlasted the visitors for a 3-2 win.
Hahndorf kicked off with the slope at the Pine Avenue ground and enjoyed the opening exchanges, the midfield getting the better of their opposition, with Jon Lynn, Ashley Oosh and Captain Matt Norris supplying Sam Heyward and Shaun Smith with some early sights on goal. Dave Grant also chimed in with support from Lee Stibbs as the Magpies sought to turn their possession into goals.
Wayne Forrester directed his defence with his usual no nonsense approach, Steve Noble and Todd Newman equally miserly in allowing the District players any room. Hahndorf continued to press for goal, the better chances falling to young Heyward. A flowing Hahndorf move saw Grant and Norris link up, the Magpie captain putting in an exquisite cross that Heyward met well, but luck deserted him and the shot cannoned of the post.
However, ten minutes later Norris showed his finishing style, latching on to Smith’s cross at the far post and slotting the ball into the exposed McLaren goal. Norris’ celebratory cartwheel would have barely rated in Olympic gymnastics, but the only score he cared about was the 1-0 Hahndorf had just taken.
Hahndorf then had a period of domination, several shots peppering the District goal. Stibbs sent in a belter from distance that had the McLaren ‘keeper scrambling to keep out, just tipping the ball past the post. Smith’s pace troubled District and Oosh gave the midfield no rest. The visitors were not lying down however and really should have equalised close to half time, Hahndorf ‘keeper Mark McGrath a little exposed and glad to see the shot go wide.
Hahndorf started the second half well, pushing the ball around and blunting the attacks of McLaren District at the edge of the penalty area. Oosh, industrious as always, seized control of the ball and sent Heyward away on a fast break. The talented striker strode into the area and buried the ball past the advancing ‘keeper.
Cruising at 2-0, Hahndorf perhaps took it a little easy and allowed McLaren back into the game. They began to link up through the midfield and put the home team under pressure. They were rewarded with a great goal, a shot from distance arrowing into the top corner and giving McGrath no chance.
Hahndorf coach Steve Handley responded with some tactical substitutions, Heyward making way for John Lawler. Hahndorf steadied and lifted the intensity with Lynn latching on to a scorching drive that the District ‘keeper did well to tip past the post. Soon after, Oosh sent in a fierce cross that eluded everyone and crashed into the goal post.
Then a strange turn of events resulted in a second yellow card and Hahndorf were left with ten men. Under pressure, the Magpies defended well but were let off the hook, the Mclaren attacker through on goal but spraying his shot and failing to trouble McGrath. It was a costly miss and minutes later more misfortune befell the visitors. Lawler and a defender chased a long clearance, the ball bouncing into the area and the pressured defender heading it past his own ‘keeper for an unfortunate own goal.
Despite this, the visitors did not lie down and Hahndorf found themselves in a hard fought finish, McLaren District finding some midfield space and keeping the Magpie defence on alert. Minutes from the end, Mclaren hit another score, the goal a mirror image of the first and driving into the opposite top corner from distance.
However, Hahndorf ran out the remaining minutes to record their second league win of the season to the delight of the home supporters. In an exciting game, Oosh took away the man of the match award, the gladiatorial midfielder a driving force all day.
Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves put together a good performance to comfortably account for an injury hit McLaren District, the final score of 4-1 getting the three points for the Magpies.
Hahndorf looked to continue their strong form from last week and started the match in fine form. Chris Hyde and Mike Lewington were the focus of attack and gained plenty of the ball through the midfield of Andrew Kenny, Gary Ledson, Tyrone Blunt and Rupert Lindon.
Veterans Stuart Thomas and Andy Craig led the defence with Lachlan McQueen and the Italian Maestro, Edmondo Palombo vigilant early on. Hahndorf worked their way forward several times, Kenny finding space out wide and Palombo having a determined run toward goal. However, Hahndorf lacked the finishing touch and some excellent saves by the visiting ‘keeper kept the scoresheet blank.
The visitors settled and pushed forward, giving Hahndorf ‘keeper Nathaniel Brooke the opportunity to showcase his shot stopping prowess, several sharp efforts denied by the big man. Hahndorf tightened up in defence, Thomas and Craig winning the aerial duels but going forward the Magpies were profligate in front of goals.
Their wastefulness was highlighted when McLaren District opened the scoring, a looping ball from out wide just sneaking under the crossbar. Just as concerning was an injury to Lindon in the same passage of play, a severe twisted ankle seeing him replaced by Matt Medley.
The Magpies went into half time a goal down but believing they had the better of the play. Within ten minutes of the restart, Hahndorf drew level, a corner causing panic in the McLaren area and Lewington getting a touch to put the ball in goal.
The second goal arrived soon after the first. Great possessional play by the Magpies put Kenny on a scything run down the flank. He supplied a terrific cross as Hyde got in ahead of a statuesque defender to power a fine header past the District ‘keeper.
Playing well, Hahndorf brought on the Black Pearl, Owen Boyce, injecting some finesse and pace on the left. The Magpies began to dominate proceedings and their task was helped when a District player limped off and was not replaced. The Magpies took full advantage, Boyce whipping in a corner for Craig to dummy, the move surprising the defence and the ball ricocheted off a McLaren player into the net.
When a second McLaren player was injured, the Magpies pushed the advantage, Lewington adding a fourth, racing past the exposed defence to blast the ball past the District ‘keeper. In control of the game, young Josh Hartnett entered the fray and put in a couple of sturdy tackles during his short stint. With time winding down, Hahndorf eased off the pressure, Blunt missing a couple of good opportunities before full time was signalled. In a strong effort from all players, outstanding on the day was Kenny, his match full of running and his crosses superb.
In the Super C’s fixture, Hahndorf took second spot on the table with a 4-1 win over Old Ignatians, the Magpies putting in a fine performance.
Next week the Hahndorf Magpies will want to maintain their winning form when they host arch rivals Mt Barker. In what should be a challenging derby, both Hills teams will be after the three points and local bragging rights.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Cup Round: Firsts & Reserves
Adelaide Budapest V Hahndorf
Hahndorf travelled to the far reaches of Kilkenny to take on old foes Adelaide Budapest in Round 1 of the Amateur League Challenge Cup. In a close game that went to extra time, superior finishing by the home side saw them advance to the next round, 5-3.
Adelaide Budapest showed their usual proficient organisation, starting the match with ten men and marking out the pitch fifteen minutes before kick off. Hahndorf took advantage of their numerical supremacy to take the lead through David Grant, the evergreen Scotsman driving a shot past the Budapest ‘keeper from just outside the area.
Budapest responded by finding another player and the match became a tighter affair, the home side putting the wide-open spaces of the ground to good use. However, the Hahndorf defensive unit of Steve Noble, Todd Newman along with the Bald Brothers, Matt Norris and wily fox Wayne Forrester, were equal to the task. Magpie goalkeeper Mark McGrath made some timely saves as Budapest worked their way into the match
Hahndorf’s midfield kept up the work rate, Tyrone Blunt, Jon Lynn, Scotty Farrant and Lee Stibbs battling hard to counter the home side. Shaun Smith and Grant were finding some opportunities on goal and Hahndorf were pushing for another score against the Budapest team. The Magpies suffered a setback when Captain Norris had to come off due to an injury, however his replacement, Kyle Eglinton put in a great effort in the backline.
Noble moved into the midfield and put on a clinic on winning tackles and hard graft, giving the Magpies momentum, however it was Budapest who equalised before half time, putting a dent in Hahndorf’s game.
The home side then blew the game apart in the first five minutes after the break, scoring two goals in quick succession to take the ascendancy. Hahndorf never gave up however and fought hard to get back into the game, Noble, Blunt and Lynn working to counter Budapest’s midfield. Repelling a Budapest attack, Blunt sent Grant away with a great pass. Grant quickly found Smith and the slippery forward escaped the home defence to knock the ball past the Budapest custodian for a 3-2 score.
With ten minutes remaining, the Hahndorf Magpies searched for an equaliser and pressed the Budapest defence hard. Combining well down the flank, Blunt sent in a cross-come-shot as the ball sailed past the Budapest ‘keeper into the net for an unlikely, but very welcome equaliser.
John Lawler came on for the injured Grant and immediately troubled the host defence with his pace and had an opportunity to put the game away but for a spurious offside call.
With the full time score locked at 3-3, the match went into extra time and again Lawler had a great chance to score. Closing in on goal, he smashed his shot into the bar and then collecting the rebound had his second effort saved by the ‘keeper.
It was fortune for the home side that they did not squander, replying with a powerful swerving shot to put Budapest ahead. Hahndorf tried to equalise but failed to find the net with several efforts. With extra time almost up and the floodlights beginning to take over from the receding daylight, Budapest made sure of the result with a fifth score to end Hahndorf’s slim hopes.
It was a hard loss to take for Hahndorf, in the contest for most of the time but their profligacy in front of goal left them short in an entertaining match. Best on the day was Noble, his endeavour and attack on the ball driving the Magpie midfield.
Reserves
Elizabeth Vale V Hahndorf
In the Challenge Cup on Sunday, Hahndorf made the long trek to Elizabeth Vale, the Premier division side expected to easily account for the hills team. However, Hahndorf put in a sterling effort to push Vale until the end, the home side getting over the line, 3-2.
Hahndorf started the match with Nathaniel Brooke between the sticks and he was in the action early as the defence of Ben Wells, Andy Craig, Stuart Thomas, and the “Italian Maestro” Edmondo Palombo found themselves under fire from the young Vale attacking force. The Magpies’ midfield of Andrew Kenny, Gary Ledson, Rupert Lindon and Brendan Kilpatrick took time to adjust to the opening salvos as the hosts worked the ball around the pitch well.
Within fifteen minutes Vale made a breakthrough, the forwards catching a favourable bounce on the edge of the area and stabbing the ball past Brooke. Hahndorf lifted its game and began to find front men Chris Hyde and Mike Lewington. Several runs by Lewington caused concern for the Vale defence and unable to cope with his pace, eventually fouled him in the area. Veteran Andy Craig converted the penalty to even the score after twenty-five minutes.
Vale pushed the Magpies but Brooke made some excellent saves and the Hahndorf defence was not giving the opposition an easy run. It was therefore frustrating when Hahndorf gifted Vale a second goal, Craig over running a loose ball and the Elizabeth forward seizing the chance to go 2-1 up. Vale may have thought that the goal would have quietened the visitors with but the Magpies kept looking to score.
A Hahndorf corner put the visitors back in the match, Ledson delivered a fine ball for Hyde to nod past the Vale ’keeper, the equaliser going in five minutes before half time.
At half time Kieran Evans was brought on for Kilpatrick who succumbed to injury. Bouyed by the scoreline, Hahndorf went into the second half with optimism and expected their opponents to come out charging. The battle was fierce as Vale sought to open up the Magpies but were denied through some outstanding work by the defence and Brooke, who was dominating the penalty area.
It was then something of an anti climax when Elizabeth Vale were awarded a dubious penalty, the “offence” occurring on the corner of the area. Vale duly converted the penalty for a 3-2 lead.
Hahndorf brought on Sam Gowen and Lachlan “Albino Yeti” McQueen, to keep up the pressure and the Magpies had several opportunities to equalise. Hyde and Lewington looked particularly dangerous, while the Italian Maestro, Palombo consistently outfoxed his much younger opponent.
As both teams tired from the engrossing battle, the game opened up but both sides were unable to make the most of their chances before time ran out for the Magpies.
All players put in a mighty team effort with Lewington and Brooke leading the best on ground plaudits. Despite the loss, Hahndorf put in a commendable performance against far higher ranked opposition and will be looking to maintain their form on the resumption of the league season.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
SAASL Div 3, Round three: MA Hawks V Hahndorf
MA Hawks V Hahndorf
Hahndorf travelled down to MA Hawks for the third round of the SAASL 3rd Division looking to test themselves against a team many see as title contenders. Past encounters have brought close matches between the two clubs and the trend continued, a very late goal giving the hosts the three points.
From the kick off, both teams moved the ball well as they looked for an early break. The MA Hawks found little joy from the Hahndorf defence, Steve Noble and Todd Newman were well marshalled by Matt Norris and Wayne Forrester, the bald brothers of the backline on top of the attacks.
Shaun Smith and David Grant combined up front and Smith had a good opportunity to put the Magpies in front but went wide with his shot. The midfield held most of the interest with both teams pushing through the middle. Lee Stibbs and Scotty Farrant were lively down the flanks while Jack Farrimond and Jon Lynn were winning the hard balls. Hahndorf ‘keeper Mark McGrath had few shots to save and the only serious threat was when he tipped a Hawks’ free kick over the bar.
After the first half hour, the momentum of the game began to favour the visitors, as Hahndorf pressed up the ground to keep MA Hawks on the back foot. Stibbs put in an attacking throw for Farrimond, the pugnacious midfielder smashing a shot just wide of the mark. The Magpies kept up the tempo but could not break the shackles by half time.
Following some encouraging words from Coach Steve Handley, Hahndorf returned to battle in the second half, with Smith and Grant keeping the Hawks’ defence on notice. Farrimond cleaned up some loose play by both teams in the midfield and unleashed a ferocious drive from just on the centre circle. The direction and velocity of the shot took the MA Hawks’ ‘keeper by surprise and he awkwardly parried the ball before scrambling to pick it up.
Farrant was also putting himself about, his combative style drawing a few rash challenges from the Hawks players. As the game progressed Hahndorf continued to construct some intelligent play, Norris exchanging passes before setting Grant up and he struck a sharp effort from twenty-five yards that just passed over the crossbar.
With twenty-five minutes remaining Kyle Eglinton was brought on for Stibbs as the game drifted from end to end with neither team able to carve out a clear shot on goal. A few stray passes let MA Hawks in with a chance but McGrath was alert to the danger. Another substitution brought Sam Heyward into the game for Farrant as the home team enjoyed a period of pressure over the Magpies and gained a few favourable decisions.
Smith, who had run hard all day, put in a great ball for Heyward and he charged toward the Hawks goal with a defender hot on his heels. However his shot found the side netting as Hahndorf began the last ten minutes with the Hawks under pressure.
An injury to Farrimond brought on John Lawler as the Magpies continued to push for a winning goal as the minutes ticked down. However it was the MA Hawks who scored, an 88th minute stab at the near post that giving them the lead. In the last action of the match, Hahndorf tried to hit back through Lawler after Eglinton found him on the left, but his shot failed to trouble the home ‘keeper.
Best on the day was Farrimond, who put in an outstanding effort during the match, with Lynn and Forrester also prominent during the game.
The loss was a bitter one for the Magpies as they had matched the Hawks throughout the game and will feel this was a result that got away. Next week they face old rivals Adelaide Budapest in the Amateur League Challenge Cup.
Reserves
The Magpie Reserves had a tight tussle with MA Hawks but failed to capitalise on their chances before a late fight back by the home team resulted in a 2-1 defeat.
Hahndorf went into the game with confidence and the early play saw both teams battling hard in the midfield. Across the middle of the park, Tyrone Blunt, Gary Ledson and Brendan Kilpatrick fought for possession to release wide men Andrew Kenny and Owen”the Black Pearl” Boyce. The Italian Maestro, Edmondo Palombo was in the thick of the action from the start putting some timely tackles with support from Andy Craig, youngster Sam Gowen and Nathaniel Brooke in goal.
Hahndorf had a couple of half chances through Chris Hyde and John Lawler as the two front men established their attacking intentions. After twenty minutes, Hahndorf broke the deadlock through a corner in which the MA Hawks’ ‘keeper failed to properly clear. It fell to Kilpatrick who stabbed home from eight metres to give Hahndorf the lead and brought some cheer to the travelling faithful.
The Magpies had further opportunities to add to the score, the best falling to Hyde, getting on the end on a convoluted corner and bringing the ball down and past his marker with a sublime piece of control. Side footing the ball past the exposed ‘keeper, the shot ended up passing barely over the bar to the visitor’s disappointment.
Hahndorf played out the half well, with the home side chancing their luck from distance but failing to find the target. When they did get close, Brooke showed commitment in claiming the ball in his area.
In the second stanza, Hahndorf looked to extend their lead, with some good play from Ledson, Blunt and Kenny driving the midfield. Hyde began to get more of the ball and found support through Lawler, Kilpatrick and Boyce.
However, the Hawks refused to give up and were rewarded with a strange equaliser from a corner, the ball managing to contrive its way past Brooke from close range. The goal gave the home side a boost and they pushed forward with intent.
Hahndorf made some substitutions, with Ben Wells, Lachlan McQueen and Jim Hill coming on. All three were into the action, putting together some good play and keeping the Hawks on their toes.
With time running out, a badly missed tackle by Craig allowed the Hawks forward a bullocking run down the flank and he found a team-mate with his cross. The shot was true despite Brookes’ valiant attempt and the Magpies found themselves trailing 2-1 with full time looming.
Hahndorf rallied to find an equaliser and had several chances through corners but time was to be their ultimate enemy with both teams putting in a strong effort to the end. Best on the day was Ledson with strong support from Kenny and Blunt.
The Hahndorf Reserves will rue their missed opportunities but can be encouraged by some periods of passing interplay and the way they battled till the final whistle. Next week the Reserves play Elizabeth Vale away in the Reserve Cup and will look to put in a good showing against the Sunday Premier Division side.
Hahndorf travelled down to MA Hawks for the third round of the SAASL 3rd Division looking to test themselves against a team many see as title contenders. Past encounters have brought close matches between the two clubs and the trend continued, a very late goal giving the hosts the three points.
From the kick off, both teams moved the ball well as they looked for an early break. The MA Hawks found little joy from the Hahndorf defence, Steve Noble and Todd Newman were well marshalled by Matt Norris and Wayne Forrester, the bald brothers of the backline on top of the attacks.
Shaun Smith and David Grant combined up front and Smith had a good opportunity to put the Magpies in front but went wide with his shot. The midfield held most of the interest with both teams pushing through the middle. Lee Stibbs and Scotty Farrant were lively down the flanks while Jack Farrimond and Jon Lynn were winning the hard balls. Hahndorf ‘keeper Mark McGrath had few shots to save and the only serious threat was when he tipped a Hawks’ free kick over the bar.
After the first half hour, the momentum of the game began to favour the visitors, as Hahndorf pressed up the ground to keep MA Hawks on the back foot. Stibbs put in an attacking throw for Farrimond, the pugnacious midfielder smashing a shot just wide of the mark. The Magpies kept up the tempo but could not break the shackles by half time.
Following some encouraging words from Coach Steve Handley, Hahndorf returned to battle in the second half, with Smith and Grant keeping the Hawks’ defence on notice. Farrimond cleaned up some loose play by both teams in the midfield and unleashed a ferocious drive from just on the centre circle. The direction and velocity of the shot took the MA Hawks’ ‘keeper by surprise and he awkwardly parried the ball before scrambling to pick it up.
Farrant was also putting himself about, his combative style drawing a few rash challenges from the Hawks players. As the game progressed Hahndorf continued to construct some intelligent play, Norris exchanging passes before setting Grant up and he struck a sharp effort from twenty-five yards that just passed over the crossbar.
With twenty-five minutes remaining Kyle Eglinton was brought on for Stibbs as the game drifted from end to end with neither team able to carve out a clear shot on goal. A few stray passes let MA Hawks in with a chance but McGrath was alert to the danger. Another substitution brought Sam Heyward into the game for Farrant as the home team enjoyed a period of pressure over the Magpies and gained a few favourable decisions.
Smith, who had run hard all day, put in a great ball for Heyward and he charged toward the Hawks goal with a defender hot on his heels. However his shot found the side netting as Hahndorf began the last ten minutes with the Hawks under pressure.
An injury to Farrimond brought on John Lawler as the Magpies continued to push for a winning goal as the minutes ticked down. However it was the MA Hawks who scored, an 88th minute stab at the near post that giving them the lead. In the last action of the match, Hahndorf tried to hit back through Lawler after Eglinton found him on the left, but his shot failed to trouble the home ‘keeper.
Best on the day was Farrimond, who put in an outstanding effort during the match, with Lynn and Forrester also prominent during the game.
The loss was a bitter one for the Magpies as they had matched the Hawks throughout the game and will feel this was a result that got away. Next week they face old rivals Adelaide Budapest in the Amateur League Challenge Cup.
Reserves
The Magpie Reserves had a tight tussle with MA Hawks but failed to capitalise on their chances before a late fight back by the home team resulted in a 2-1 defeat.
Hahndorf went into the game with confidence and the early play saw both teams battling hard in the midfield. Across the middle of the park, Tyrone Blunt, Gary Ledson and Brendan Kilpatrick fought for possession to release wide men Andrew Kenny and Owen”the Black Pearl” Boyce. The Italian Maestro, Edmondo Palombo was in the thick of the action from the start putting some timely tackles with support from Andy Craig, youngster Sam Gowen and Nathaniel Brooke in goal.
Hahndorf had a couple of half chances through Chris Hyde and John Lawler as the two front men established their attacking intentions. After twenty minutes, Hahndorf broke the deadlock through a corner in which the MA Hawks’ ‘keeper failed to properly clear. It fell to Kilpatrick who stabbed home from eight metres to give Hahndorf the lead and brought some cheer to the travelling faithful.
The Magpies had further opportunities to add to the score, the best falling to Hyde, getting on the end on a convoluted corner and bringing the ball down and past his marker with a sublime piece of control. Side footing the ball past the exposed ‘keeper, the shot ended up passing barely over the bar to the visitor’s disappointment.
Hahndorf played out the half well, with the home side chancing their luck from distance but failing to find the target. When they did get close, Brooke showed commitment in claiming the ball in his area.
In the second stanza, Hahndorf looked to extend their lead, with some good play from Ledson, Blunt and Kenny driving the midfield. Hyde began to get more of the ball and found support through Lawler, Kilpatrick and Boyce.
However, the Hawks refused to give up and were rewarded with a strange equaliser from a corner, the ball managing to contrive its way past Brooke from close range. The goal gave the home side a boost and they pushed forward with intent.
Hahndorf made some substitutions, with Ben Wells, Lachlan McQueen and Jim Hill coming on. All three were into the action, putting together some good play and keeping the Hawks on their toes.
With time running out, a badly missed tackle by Craig allowed the Hawks forward a bullocking run down the flank and he found a team-mate with his cross. The shot was true despite Brookes’ valiant attempt and the Magpies found themselves trailing 2-1 with full time looming.
Hahndorf rallied to find an equaliser and had several chances through corners but time was to be their ultimate enemy with both teams putting in a strong effort to the end. Best on the day was Ledson with strong support from Kenny and Blunt.
The Hahndorf Reserves will rue their missed opportunities but can be encouraged by some periods of passing interplay and the way they battled till the final whistle. Next week the Reserves play Elizabeth Vale away in the Reserve Cup and will look to put in a good showing against the Sunday Premier Division side.
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