SA Bullets V Hahndorf
Hahndorf visited the SA Bullets on Saturday for the 8th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League and produced some scrappy play on an unforgiving pitch. Fighting until the end, the Magpie pressure finally paid off with the only goal of the match, three minutes from the end.
Hahndorf took to the field with Nathaniel Brooke in goal, with the four defensemen in front of him barely fitting across the narrow playing surface, the pitch resembling a rough outback airstrip. Kyle Eglinton, Captain Matt Norris, Wayne Forrester and Todd Newman made a formidable wall across the top of the sparsely marked penalty box, the Global Financial Crisis evident in the paucity of line marking on the ground.
In midfield, Sam Heyworth, Jon Lynn, Gary Ledson and Ashley Oosh battled for possession and control, to feed forwards Shaun Smith and Mike Lewington. Hahndorf dominated the play for the majority of the half but could not get the right mix to produce a goal. Holding the Bullets in their own territory, the Magpies made plenty of opportunities but found actual shots on goal hard to come by.
Smith had a great chance to open the scoring after going around the ‘keeper but flicking his shot wide. Heyworth also had two good opportunities, one shot blocked from close range and a second, a header going across the face of goal.
The Bullets were content to punt the ball forward and attempt to catch out the Magpie backline but Hahndorf held fast and continued to build through their midfield. As half time approached, the lack of any score was a worry for Hahndorf as they could not turn their dominance into a positive score.
The second half was almost a repeat of the first, the Magpies working their way through the midfield, but the Bullets denying them a clear shot on goal. It was a scrappy affair not helped by the bumpy, narrow pitch and the SA Bullets grew in confidence as the game wore on. Several times they made chances but Brooke was in good position to quell the threat.
Lewington made a rapid break but saw his chance to score evaporate as the ball passed over the crossbar. The home side continued to belt the ball forward at every opportunity, hoping for a stray bounce or bobble to get behind the Magpie defence.
With the game still in the balance, Hahndorf made several substitutions, Smith and the injured Heyward replaced by Tyrone Blunt and Brendan Kilpatrick. Both players were soon in the action, Kilpatrick unlucky to see his goal-bound shot blocked by a desperate lunge by the Bullets’ defender.
The Magpies constantly held possession with some nice play until the edge of the opposition’s penalty area, where a stray pass or bounce would let the Bullets clear their lines. A third change for the visitors brought on Steve Noble for Eglinton.
Oosh was combative as always and his bustling run resulted in a rasping shot going just wide. It was frustrating for the travelling Magpie faithful as Hahndorf poured on the pressure but could not find the back of the net. The spectators were aware that a little bit of luck for either team would probably decide the match.
The Bullets almost stole the game in the final ten minutes, Brooke saving well from one attack but then could only look on as a looping shot soon after hit the post and bounced back into his arms.
With the minutes ticking down, an infringement gave Hahndorf an indirect free kick inside the opposition penalty area. The Captain stepped up and struck it well but ball hit the defensive wall, which had encroached on the kick. The referee whistled for the free to be retaken and this time Norris made no mistake, hitting an unstoppable thunderbolt into the net.
Hahndorf were overjoyed at the goal and set out with steely resolve to defend their slender lead in the remaining three minutes. The Magpies counted down the seconds as the Bullets tried to mount an attack but the Hahndorf defence was too good to the end.
Man of the Match was captain Matt Norris, an inspiration in defence and scoring the crucial goal with Jon Lynn also putting in a solid contribution in the battling midfield. Next week, the Magpies are at their Pine Avenue ground for the visit of Flinders University.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Round 2 Catch up: Hahndorf V Adelaide Redblue Eagles
Hahndorf V Adelaide Redblue Eagles
Hahndorf played a catch-up game on the weekend against Adelaide Redblue Eagles and found the visitors in a feisty mood. The Magpies wasted many opportunities to put the game beyond the Eagles but succumbed to a late equaliser for both teams to share the points.
Hahndorf started off brightly, the midfield of David Grant, John Lawler, Gary Ledson and inspirational captain Matt Norris moving the ball confidently under the leaden skies. Mike Lewington and Ash Oosh made their presence felt up front with some robust challenges and kept the opposition defence on their toes.
Nathaniel Brooke donned the gloves for the Magpies, with a familiar defensive line up of Kyle Eglinton, Todd Newman, Wayne Forrester and Lee Stibbs stifling the attack of the visitors. Hahndorf were forced into an early substitution when Lawler sustained an injury and Jon Lynn stepped in to cover the loss. Soon however the Magpies broke open the game when Forrester smashed in a volley from the edge of the area, the wily veteran pouncing on a loose ball after a corner.
The goal gave the hosts inspiration and they created more chances but were unable to find the net. Grant rolled back the years with a scything run that left three Eagles trailing in his wake and he raced into goal with only the ‘keeper to beat. His shot was chipped over the advancing custodian but unfortunately for the home side, also just over the crossbar.
The Redblue Eagles managed several attacks but the defence of Hahndorf stood fast, Forrester and Newman commanding the middle while Stibbs and Eglinton held the forays on the flanks to a minimum.
Oosh and Lewington combined for a chance as Hahndorf stepped up the attacks on goal but despite their endeavour, could not add to the score, the Eagles ‘keeper making some crucial saves. Lynn went just wide with a fine strike while Oosh also was off target before half time.
The resumption of play in the second half also signalled for the rain to start and soon the slippery pitch was another obstacle for both teams. It was an even opening as both sides adjusted to the changing conditions. The visitors gained the first of several free kicks from outside the penalty area but the resultant shot was too high to trouble Brooke.
Oosh countered with another chance before the Eagles went wide with another free kick. The visitors were not allowing the Magpies to get their own way and worked into the match with some nice passes through midfield. Hahndorf’s defence remained defiant as the Redblue Eagles sought an equaliser.
Oosh was having a fine game, rampaging at the Eagles defence for most of the game and it was a fine pass by him that nearly gave the Magpies a second score. Grant met the cross with a clean volley and with the keeper beaten the ball unfortunately struck the bar and bounced away from danger. The woodwork was again to save the Eagles when Lewington had his goal-bound shot deflected onto the post by the Redblue ‘keeper at full stretch.
The visitors however did not give up and it was Brooke called into action next, a strong diving punch keeping the Eagles score bare. Brooke soon after launched a clearance to Oosh and again the Eagles’ custodian made a great save to prevent what looked to be a certain score.
Oosh had run himself ragged and was replaced by Luke Jones, the young forward keen to make an impression on the game. He was soon involved with a build up with Lewington to create another chance and Lynn also had an effort pass by the post.
Hahndorf’s profligacy in front of goal was to haunt them once again as the Eagles gained the last of their numerous free kicks from a dangerous area. This time their aim was true and the shot squirmed under the Hahndorf ‘keeper to make the score even with minutes remaining. Hahndorf desperately sought the winning goal and laid siege to the Eagles goal but their shooting was off, Jones pouncing onto a rebound before finding the ‘keeper in the way of the goal.
It was a disappointing end to the match and Hahndorf will feel they let the three points slip away at the last moment. Best on a frustrating day was Forrester, his defending exemplary, with Stibbs and Norris also putting in fine performances.
Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves survived a late scare before outlasting the visiting Redblue Eagles 2-1 in a match full of chances but neither side able to take advantage.
A late arriving goalkeeper for the home side saw Luke Jones volunteer to get between the sticks. Before him, the defence of Matt Medley, veterans Andy Craig and Stuart Thomas along with the “Italian Maestro”, Edmondo Palombo combined to protect the stand-in during the early phases of the game.
Andrew Kenny, Tyrone Blunt and the “Albino yeti”, Lachlan McQueen joined the “Black Pearl”, Owen Boyce in midfield as the Magpies got off to a tardy start, the opening period of play not one for the highlight reel. Up front, Chris Hyde and Sam Heyward made themselves available but Hahndorf’s disjointed play did not create many opportunities for the forward line. After ten minutes, Jones was replaced by regular ‘keeper, Mark McGrath.
It was the Eagles who made the opening running and the scoring, a low cross missed by a plethora of Hahndorf players before an Eagles attacker prodded the ball in to put the visitors ahead.
The goal sparked the Magpies and they began to create chances of their own and get on top of the game in midfield. Blunt and Boyce were particularly industrious as Hahndorf held possession in midfield for long periods of play.
However, it was until minutes from halftime before the Magpies turned their control into a score. Good lead up work but Boyce, Hyde and Heyward gave McQueen an opportunity and the Albino Yeti did not disappoint, blasting in from six yards for the equaliser.
After the break the match evened out somewhat, the defence of Craig and Thomas winning the high balls while Medley and Palombo were solid at the back as Hahndorf pushed forward. Blunt created attacking moves from the middle, giving Hyde and Heyward chances but Hahndorf could not capitalise from their better field positions.
The Eagles fought back, giving the Magpies a scare until Blunt put Hahndorf into the lead with a phenomenal strike, the ball travelling like an exocet missile as it rocketed into the bottom corner from thirty metres. Hahndorf continued to go for more goals but found their aim wayward.
Ben Edwards and Kieran Evans completed the Hahndorf substitutions, as the Redblue Eagles showed fight to the end. The home side were almost to regret all their missed opportunities as the visitors hit the post and had another great chance to equalise minutes before the match concluded.
In a tight finish, the Magpies were happy victors with man of the Match honours going to Blunt, the big man producing a stunning goal and some pivotal play. Medley, Craig and Boyce also put in solid contributions in a game that could have slipped away in the final minutes.
Next week, the Magpies travel to the northern suburb of Para Vista, with only the Hahndorf first team playing the SA Bullets away, the hosts not having a reserve side.
Hahndorf played a catch-up game on the weekend against Adelaide Redblue Eagles and found the visitors in a feisty mood. The Magpies wasted many opportunities to put the game beyond the Eagles but succumbed to a late equaliser for both teams to share the points.
Hahndorf started off brightly, the midfield of David Grant, John Lawler, Gary Ledson and inspirational captain Matt Norris moving the ball confidently under the leaden skies. Mike Lewington and Ash Oosh made their presence felt up front with some robust challenges and kept the opposition defence on their toes.
Nathaniel Brooke donned the gloves for the Magpies, with a familiar defensive line up of Kyle Eglinton, Todd Newman, Wayne Forrester and Lee Stibbs stifling the attack of the visitors. Hahndorf were forced into an early substitution when Lawler sustained an injury and Jon Lynn stepped in to cover the loss. Soon however the Magpies broke open the game when Forrester smashed in a volley from the edge of the area, the wily veteran pouncing on a loose ball after a corner.
The goal gave the hosts inspiration and they created more chances but were unable to find the net. Grant rolled back the years with a scything run that left three Eagles trailing in his wake and he raced into goal with only the ‘keeper to beat. His shot was chipped over the advancing custodian but unfortunately for the home side, also just over the crossbar.
The Redblue Eagles managed several attacks but the defence of Hahndorf stood fast, Forrester and Newman commanding the middle while Stibbs and Eglinton held the forays on the flanks to a minimum.
Oosh and Lewington combined for a chance as Hahndorf stepped up the attacks on goal but despite their endeavour, could not add to the score, the Eagles ‘keeper making some crucial saves. Lynn went just wide with a fine strike while Oosh also was off target before half time.
The resumption of play in the second half also signalled for the rain to start and soon the slippery pitch was another obstacle for both teams. It was an even opening as both sides adjusted to the changing conditions. The visitors gained the first of several free kicks from outside the penalty area but the resultant shot was too high to trouble Brooke.
Oosh countered with another chance before the Eagles went wide with another free kick. The visitors were not allowing the Magpies to get their own way and worked into the match with some nice passes through midfield. Hahndorf’s defence remained defiant as the Redblue Eagles sought an equaliser.
Oosh was having a fine game, rampaging at the Eagles defence for most of the game and it was a fine pass by him that nearly gave the Magpies a second score. Grant met the cross with a clean volley and with the keeper beaten the ball unfortunately struck the bar and bounced away from danger. The woodwork was again to save the Eagles when Lewington had his goal-bound shot deflected onto the post by the Redblue ‘keeper at full stretch.
The visitors however did not give up and it was Brooke called into action next, a strong diving punch keeping the Eagles score bare. Brooke soon after launched a clearance to Oosh and again the Eagles’ custodian made a great save to prevent what looked to be a certain score.
Oosh had run himself ragged and was replaced by Luke Jones, the young forward keen to make an impression on the game. He was soon involved with a build up with Lewington to create another chance and Lynn also had an effort pass by the post.
Hahndorf’s profligacy in front of goal was to haunt them once again as the Eagles gained the last of their numerous free kicks from a dangerous area. This time their aim was true and the shot squirmed under the Hahndorf ‘keeper to make the score even with minutes remaining. Hahndorf desperately sought the winning goal and laid siege to the Eagles goal but their shooting was off, Jones pouncing onto a rebound before finding the ‘keeper in the way of the goal.
It was a disappointing end to the match and Hahndorf will feel they let the three points slip away at the last moment. Best on a frustrating day was Forrester, his defending exemplary, with Stibbs and Norris also putting in fine performances.
Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves survived a late scare before outlasting the visiting Redblue Eagles 2-1 in a match full of chances but neither side able to take advantage.
A late arriving goalkeeper for the home side saw Luke Jones volunteer to get between the sticks. Before him, the defence of Matt Medley, veterans Andy Craig and Stuart Thomas along with the “Italian Maestro”, Edmondo Palombo combined to protect the stand-in during the early phases of the game.
Andrew Kenny, Tyrone Blunt and the “Albino yeti”, Lachlan McQueen joined the “Black Pearl”, Owen Boyce in midfield as the Magpies got off to a tardy start, the opening period of play not one for the highlight reel. Up front, Chris Hyde and Sam Heyward made themselves available but Hahndorf’s disjointed play did not create many opportunities for the forward line. After ten minutes, Jones was replaced by regular ‘keeper, Mark McGrath.
It was the Eagles who made the opening running and the scoring, a low cross missed by a plethora of Hahndorf players before an Eagles attacker prodded the ball in to put the visitors ahead.
The goal sparked the Magpies and they began to create chances of their own and get on top of the game in midfield. Blunt and Boyce were particularly industrious as Hahndorf held possession in midfield for long periods of play.
However, it was until minutes from halftime before the Magpies turned their control into a score. Good lead up work but Boyce, Hyde and Heyward gave McQueen an opportunity and the Albino Yeti did not disappoint, blasting in from six yards for the equaliser.
After the break the match evened out somewhat, the defence of Craig and Thomas winning the high balls while Medley and Palombo were solid at the back as Hahndorf pushed forward. Blunt created attacking moves from the middle, giving Hyde and Heyward chances but Hahndorf could not capitalise from their better field positions.
The Eagles fought back, giving the Magpies a scare until Blunt put Hahndorf into the lead with a phenomenal strike, the ball travelling like an exocet missile as it rocketed into the bottom corner from thirty metres. Hahndorf continued to go for more goals but found their aim wayward.
Ben Edwards and Kieran Evans completed the Hahndorf substitutions, as the Redblue Eagles showed fight to the end. The home side were almost to regret all their missed opportunities as the visitors hit the post and had another great chance to equalise minutes before the match concluded.
In a tight finish, the Magpies were happy victors with man of the Match honours going to Blunt, the big man producing a stunning goal and some pivotal play. Medley, Craig and Boyce also put in solid contributions in a game that could have slipped away in the final minutes.
Next week, the Magpies travel to the northern suburb of Para Vista, with only the Hahndorf first team playing the SA Bullets away, the hosts not having a reserve side.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Round 7: Hahndorf V Adelaide Cougars
Hahndorf hosted the undefeated Adelaide Cougars on a cold and rainy Saturday for the 7th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 3rd division. In a tight contest, a goal in each half to the visitors saw them leave Pine Avenue with the three points.
The recent good form of Nathaniel Brooke in goal ensured he was promoted to the first team this week and before him were the defensive talents of Kyle Eglinton, Lee Stibbs, Todd Newman and the wily fox, Wayne Forrester. The Magpies featured the young attacking pair of Mike Lewington and Sam Heyward, with support from the experienced midfield of John Lawler, Matt Norris, Jon Lynn and Ash Oosh.
The match started evenly, the Cougars attacking with the slope and moving the ball confidently through midfield. The Hahndorf defence matched them well and soon opened up some attaching space through the midfield. Neither side were able to get a many definitive shots on goal, both defences working well. The Cougars had a good chance but great work by Stibbs saw him clear the ball off the line.
The even play continued for most of the half before the Cougars opened the scoring. Brooke had covered a long shot before an unfortunate deflection diverted the ball past him and into the net. The goal was a dent in the Magpies confidence but a few tough tackles from Newman and Forrester showed the home team was still well in the match.
With half time approaching, Hahndorf went on the attack with Lewington constantly harassing the Cougar defence , and Oosh and Lawler working hard to move the ball forward. The Magpies had two good chances to equalise through Heyward, the striker getting through on goal but finding the Cougars’ ’keeper with his shot. Soon after, a long shot was spilled by the visiting custodian but Heyward was unable to capitalise, the Cougar defence recovering quickly.
The second half developed into a struggle for both teams, as their respective defences played sufficiently well to keep chances on goal to a minimum. Brooke covered his goal well when a Cougar shot got near, a strong one-armed rebuff of the ball followed by a good recovering save keeping the Magpies in the game.
With both defences largely on top, Hahndorf made a couple of substitutions, Heyward replaced by Shaun Smith, the sprightly forward immediately showing some sparkle on the flank. He whipped in a cross to Lawler, but the Cougar ‘keeper just managed to cut out the ball. Oosh made way for David Grant as Hahndorf began to create some of the best chances of the match.
Lewington got to a wide ball and put in a great cross to Norris, who struck it well, but a defender threw his leg in the way of the goal-bound shot. The Magpies had several more opportunities, a throw flicked on to Lawler who drove his shot barely wide as the ‘keeper belatedly dived after the ball.
In a reverse of play the Cougars then scored their second, a rasping shot from a tight angle after Brooke had punched away a corner. The Magpies did not give up and soon after Smith and Lawler both had good one-on-one opportunities but failed to find the net. Grant played a one-two with Lawler and put in a cross to Norris who hit a sharp effort just over the bar.
Hahndorf’s endeavour to get a result saw them battle for the ninety minutes but ultimately they could not get the score on the board. Best on the day was Newman, the defender outstanding in repelling the Cougars, with Stibbs and Lewington also putting in strong contributions.
Reserves
Hahndorf Reserves battled hard all day but did not take their chances as the visiting Cougars managed three second half goals to one to take the points.
Missing four players from last weeks triumph, Hahndorf still fielded a competitive side with Matt Medley, Andy Craig, Brad Francis and the “Italian Maestro”, Edmondo Palombo in the back-line.
Andrew Kenny, Tyrone Blunt, Ben “Beninho” Wells and the “Black Pearl”, Owen Boyce fought out the midfield possession with Chris Hyde and Brendan Kilpatrick up front. Finch Cowlam dusted off the boots to make a rare appearance between the sticks, the former first team ‘keeper making his Reserves debut.
The game opened up with both sides exchanging possession in midfield, the defences of both sides capably dealing with any early threats. The Cougars had a couple of sights on goal but Cowlam was equal to the task as Hahndorf looked to build from the back. Craig, Medley and Palombo passed the ball through the midfield, as Kenny and Wells sought to exploit the spaces down the flanks.
Hahndorf had a few shots on goal, but could not find the target as both teams wrestled for the opening score. The Cougars tried to capitalise on their possession but with the defence holding fast, the Magpies denied them any real clear chances. Both teams went into half time feeling they could break the stalemate and the game.
The Cougars came out fighting upon the resumption of play, forcing Hahndorf out of their half time lethargy with some sustained pressure. However, Craig marshalled the defence as the Magpies fought their way back into the match.
Blunt and Kenny had several chances on goal but again their aim was astray as Hahndorf enjoyed a period of pressure, forcing the Cougars into retreat down the hill. Blunt’s possession in midfield was pivotal in Hahndorf’s attacking style as the Magpies had several corners but could not make the set piece pay.
The light rain that had hung around for a while began to effect the playing surface. It was to change the course of the match, a hopeful Cougar ball slipping past Cowlam as the opposition forward ran on to the open goal. Hahndorf tried to reply but their shots were wasteful and they suffered a further blow when the Cougars scored again. A very well hit shot giving the Magpie custodian no chance.
The Hahndorf team responded almost immediately, a series of passes from the back finding Hyde in space on the edge of the Cougar box. A clinical finish by the experienced forward put the ball into the bottom corner and the Magpies in the game at 2-1.
Hahndorf sensed the change in fortune and pressed forward, with the opposition beginning to tire. Hahndorf made a number of substitutions, youngsters Sam Gowan, Josh Watson and Kieran Evans added to the fray. The Magpies worked the ball around well to release Kilpatrick on goal and with the ‘keeper to beat, he watched in anguish as the shot cannoned off the crossbar.
It was a let off the visitors took advantage of, a late goal five minutes from the end putting the game into the Cougars keeping. Despite a great team effort, the Magpies were to rue their missed opportunities. Best on the day was Medley, showing the award-winning form of last year with Blunt also putting a great game in midfield.
Next week the Hahndorf Magpies will be at their Pine Avenue home, playing a catch up game against the Redblue Eagles, both Firsts and Reserves aiming to get full points from the fixture.
The recent good form of Nathaniel Brooke in goal ensured he was promoted to the first team this week and before him were the defensive talents of Kyle Eglinton, Lee Stibbs, Todd Newman and the wily fox, Wayne Forrester. The Magpies featured the young attacking pair of Mike Lewington and Sam Heyward, with support from the experienced midfield of John Lawler, Matt Norris, Jon Lynn and Ash Oosh.
The match started evenly, the Cougars attacking with the slope and moving the ball confidently through midfield. The Hahndorf defence matched them well and soon opened up some attaching space through the midfield. Neither side were able to get a many definitive shots on goal, both defences working well. The Cougars had a good chance but great work by Stibbs saw him clear the ball off the line.
The even play continued for most of the half before the Cougars opened the scoring. Brooke had covered a long shot before an unfortunate deflection diverted the ball past him and into the net. The goal was a dent in the Magpies confidence but a few tough tackles from Newman and Forrester showed the home team was still well in the match.
With half time approaching, Hahndorf went on the attack with Lewington constantly harassing the Cougar defence , and Oosh and Lawler working hard to move the ball forward. The Magpies had two good chances to equalise through Heyward, the striker getting through on goal but finding the Cougars’ ’keeper with his shot. Soon after, a long shot was spilled by the visiting custodian but Heyward was unable to capitalise, the Cougar defence recovering quickly.
The second half developed into a struggle for both teams, as their respective defences played sufficiently well to keep chances on goal to a minimum. Brooke covered his goal well when a Cougar shot got near, a strong one-armed rebuff of the ball followed by a good recovering save keeping the Magpies in the game.
With both defences largely on top, Hahndorf made a couple of substitutions, Heyward replaced by Shaun Smith, the sprightly forward immediately showing some sparkle on the flank. He whipped in a cross to Lawler, but the Cougar ‘keeper just managed to cut out the ball. Oosh made way for David Grant as Hahndorf began to create some of the best chances of the match.
Lewington got to a wide ball and put in a great cross to Norris, who struck it well, but a defender threw his leg in the way of the goal-bound shot. The Magpies had several more opportunities, a throw flicked on to Lawler who drove his shot barely wide as the ‘keeper belatedly dived after the ball.
In a reverse of play the Cougars then scored their second, a rasping shot from a tight angle after Brooke had punched away a corner. The Magpies did not give up and soon after Smith and Lawler both had good one-on-one opportunities but failed to find the net. Grant played a one-two with Lawler and put in a cross to Norris who hit a sharp effort just over the bar.
Hahndorf’s endeavour to get a result saw them battle for the ninety minutes but ultimately they could not get the score on the board. Best on the day was Newman, the defender outstanding in repelling the Cougars, with Stibbs and Lewington also putting in strong contributions.
Reserves
Hahndorf Reserves battled hard all day but did not take their chances as the visiting Cougars managed three second half goals to one to take the points.
Missing four players from last weeks triumph, Hahndorf still fielded a competitive side with Matt Medley, Andy Craig, Brad Francis and the “Italian Maestro”, Edmondo Palombo in the back-line.
Andrew Kenny, Tyrone Blunt, Ben “Beninho” Wells and the “Black Pearl”, Owen Boyce fought out the midfield possession with Chris Hyde and Brendan Kilpatrick up front. Finch Cowlam dusted off the boots to make a rare appearance between the sticks, the former first team ‘keeper making his Reserves debut.
The game opened up with both sides exchanging possession in midfield, the defences of both sides capably dealing with any early threats. The Cougars had a couple of sights on goal but Cowlam was equal to the task as Hahndorf looked to build from the back. Craig, Medley and Palombo passed the ball through the midfield, as Kenny and Wells sought to exploit the spaces down the flanks.
Hahndorf had a few shots on goal, but could not find the target as both teams wrestled for the opening score. The Cougars tried to capitalise on their possession but with the defence holding fast, the Magpies denied them any real clear chances. Both teams went into half time feeling they could break the stalemate and the game.
The Cougars came out fighting upon the resumption of play, forcing Hahndorf out of their half time lethargy with some sustained pressure. However, Craig marshalled the defence as the Magpies fought their way back into the match.
Blunt and Kenny had several chances on goal but again their aim was astray as Hahndorf enjoyed a period of pressure, forcing the Cougars into retreat down the hill. Blunt’s possession in midfield was pivotal in Hahndorf’s attacking style as the Magpies had several corners but could not make the set piece pay.
The light rain that had hung around for a while began to effect the playing surface. It was to change the course of the match, a hopeful Cougar ball slipping past Cowlam as the opposition forward ran on to the open goal. Hahndorf tried to reply but their shots were wasteful and they suffered a further blow when the Cougars scored again. A very well hit shot giving the Magpie custodian no chance.
The Hahndorf team responded almost immediately, a series of passes from the back finding Hyde in space on the edge of the Cougar box. A clinical finish by the experienced forward put the ball into the bottom corner and the Magpies in the game at 2-1.
Hahndorf sensed the change in fortune and pressed forward, with the opposition beginning to tire. Hahndorf made a number of substitutions, youngsters Sam Gowan, Josh Watson and Kieran Evans added to the fray. The Magpies worked the ball around well to release Kilpatrick on goal and with the ‘keeper to beat, he watched in anguish as the shot cannoned off the crossbar.
It was a let off the visitors took advantage of, a late goal five minutes from the end putting the game into the Cougars keeping. Despite a great team effort, the Magpies were to rue their missed opportunities. Best on the day was Medley, showing the award-winning form of last year with Blunt also putting a great game in midfield.
Next week the Hahndorf Magpies will be at their Pine Avenue home, playing a catch up game against the Redblue Eagles, both Firsts and Reserves aiming to get full points from the fixture.
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Round 6: Burundi Eagles V Hahndorf
Burundi Eagles V Hahndorf
The first team match between Burundi Eagles and Hahndorf did not take place on Saturday as no official referee turned up to the ground. However, preceding this, an exciting match in the Reserves fixture saw a ten man Hahndorf triumph in the final minutes.
Hahndorf went into the game against the undefeated Burundi Eagles side looking to atone for their dismal performance the previous week. Nathaniel Brooke took his regular place between the posts with the Italian Maestro, Edmondo Palombo , Andy Craig, Stuart Thomas and youngster Matt Medley taking up the defensive roles.
The midfield saw “the Black Pearl”, Owen Boyce and Ben Wells out wide with Tyrone Blunt and Gary Ledson strong in the middle. The forward line boasted of David Grant teamed with the Albino Yeti, Lachlan McQueen.
The opening minutes established the pattern of play, the Eagles keen to push forward but leaving the midfield open. Hahndorf used space intelligently, pushing the ball around and looking to release Grant and McQueen. Several early opportunities fell to the Magpies but they could not get a clear shot on goal.
McQueen was busy chasing everything up front and had two clear chances to open the scoring but found he had left his shooting boots at home. Wells also had a great chance, as he made a late run into the area and collected a pass from McQueen but his shot passed wide of the target.
At the other end, Hahndorf were fairly comfortable in defence, but one lapse allowed the Burundi forward in with only Brooke to beat. The big Magpie ‘keeper closed the angle and beat away the shot, spreading himself well to cover the goal.
Ledson and Blunt were dominating the midfield, putting in the hard tackles and distributing the ball on the wide Angle Park pitch. Hahndorf created several more chances but again their composure in front of goal led their shots astray. They ended the half with the better chances and possession but with the score at parity.
After the break, Hahndorf continued to use the space and made many foraging runs forward, but lacked the finishing detail to trouble the score sheet. Burundi also pushed forward, but were well contained by the Magpies as Brooke held any goal-bound shot.
Hahndorf brought on Luke Jones for McQueen as Hahndorf sought a deserved goal, but it was a strange sending off that nearly undid the Magpies. The referee handed out consecutive yellow cards, one for a foul and then a second for apparently not staying around to get the first yellow.
The sending off gave the home side impetus and they tried to exploit their numerical superiority and pushed forward in waves. This left large spaces for Hahndorf to exploit and they soon had opened up the Eagle defence but were unable to find the finishing touch. An injury to Grant saw him replaced by Kieran Evans and young Josh Watson was also brought on to bolster the defence.
The Hahndorf defence stood firm in the face of repeated Eagles’ attacks, Craig, Palombo, Watson and Medley keeping the hosts to long shots and shutting them down on the edge of the box. Twice Burundi looked to have taken the lead but Brooke was in inspirational form, flinging his body around to deny the goals and allowing the Magpies to scramble the ball away.
The open style of the Eagles gave plenty of chances to Hahndorf but they remained profligate in front of goal, Wells, Boyce and Blunt wasteful with their opportunities. It took until minutes before full time for the winning goal to arrive, Blunt coursing down the flank and putting in a low cross. Jones met the ball at the back post and side-footed into the corner of the net, to the jubilation of the Magpies.
The match ended shortly after and Hahndorf celebrated a deserved victory, the side never giving up during the contest, despite being a man down. Man of the match was Brooke, his form impeccable all day as he dominated the area and kept a clean sheet.
Next week, Hahndorf are at home to the league leading Adelaide Cougars, another top clash that will shape the look of the league table.
Super Cs
The Hahndorf Super Cs maintained the pressure at the top of division 6 with a 2-1 away win against Adelaide FC. The win put the Magpies in second spot, level on points with Adelaide FC but boasting a superior goal difference. Next week the Cs host local rivals Mt Barker at the Pine avenue ground.
The first team match between Burundi Eagles and Hahndorf did not take place on Saturday as no official referee turned up to the ground. However, preceding this, an exciting match in the Reserves fixture saw a ten man Hahndorf triumph in the final minutes.
Hahndorf went into the game against the undefeated Burundi Eagles side looking to atone for their dismal performance the previous week. Nathaniel Brooke took his regular place between the posts with the Italian Maestro, Edmondo Palombo , Andy Craig, Stuart Thomas and youngster Matt Medley taking up the defensive roles.
The midfield saw “the Black Pearl”, Owen Boyce and Ben Wells out wide with Tyrone Blunt and Gary Ledson strong in the middle. The forward line boasted of David Grant teamed with the Albino Yeti, Lachlan McQueen.
The opening minutes established the pattern of play, the Eagles keen to push forward but leaving the midfield open. Hahndorf used space intelligently, pushing the ball around and looking to release Grant and McQueen. Several early opportunities fell to the Magpies but they could not get a clear shot on goal.
McQueen was busy chasing everything up front and had two clear chances to open the scoring but found he had left his shooting boots at home. Wells also had a great chance, as he made a late run into the area and collected a pass from McQueen but his shot passed wide of the target.
At the other end, Hahndorf were fairly comfortable in defence, but one lapse allowed the Burundi forward in with only Brooke to beat. The big Magpie ‘keeper closed the angle and beat away the shot, spreading himself well to cover the goal.
Ledson and Blunt were dominating the midfield, putting in the hard tackles and distributing the ball on the wide Angle Park pitch. Hahndorf created several more chances but again their composure in front of goal led their shots astray. They ended the half with the better chances and possession but with the score at parity.
After the break, Hahndorf continued to use the space and made many foraging runs forward, but lacked the finishing detail to trouble the score sheet. Burundi also pushed forward, but were well contained by the Magpies as Brooke held any goal-bound shot.
Hahndorf brought on Luke Jones for McQueen as Hahndorf sought a deserved goal, but it was a strange sending off that nearly undid the Magpies. The referee handed out consecutive yellow cards, one for a foul and then a second for apparently not staying around to get the first yellow.
The sending off gave the home side impetus and they tried to exploit their numerical superiority and pushed forward in waves. This left large spaces for Hahndorf to exploit and they soon had opened up the Eagle defence but were unable to find the finishing touch. An injury to Grant saw him replaced by Kieran Evans and young Josh Watson was also brought on to bolster the defence.
The Hahndorf defence stood firm in the face of repeated Eagles’ attacks, Craig, Palombo, Watson and Medley keeping the hosts to long shots and shutting them down on the edge of the box. Twice Burundi looked to have taken the lead but Brooke was in inspirational form, flinging his body around to deny the goals and allowing the Magpies to scramble the ball away.
The open style of the Eagles gave plenty of chances to Hahndorf but they remained profligate in front of goal, Wells, Boyce and Blunt wasteful with their opportunities. It took until minutes before full time for the winning goal to arrive, Blunt coursing down the flank and putting in a low cross. Jones met the ball at the back post and side-footed into the corner of the net, to the jubilation of the Magpies.
The match ended shortly after and Hahndorf celebrated a deserved victory, the side never giving up during the contest, despite being a man down. Man of the match was Brooke, his form impeccable all day as he dominated the area and kept a clean sheet.
Next week, Hahndorf are at home to the league leading Adelaide Cougars, another top clash that will shape the look of the league table.
Super Cs
The Hahndorf Super Cs maintained the pressure at the top of division 6 with a 2-1 away win against Adelaide FC. The win put the Magpies in second spot, level on points with Adelaide FC but boasting a superior goal difference. Next week the Cs host local rivals Mt Barker at the Pine avenue ground.
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