Round 18: Hahndorf V MA Hawks

Hahndorf V MA Hawks

The final round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League was played out in warm and windy conditions at Pine Avenue between Hahndorf and the MA Hawks, the latter prevailing 1-2 in an entertaining and competitive match.

With Hahndorf clear of relegation woes and the visiting Hawks guaranteed of promotion, the final match could have turned into a rather dull “dead rubber”, but instead both sides went looking for the win from the opening whistle. Hahndorf promoted Reserves ‘keeper Andy Jones to a First team debut, with an experienced defensive formation of Steve Noble, Dan Hermel, Michael Lewington and Andy Craig in front of him.

The MA Hawks and the Magpies made their attacking intentions clear with some lively opening exchanges as the opposing teams sized each other up. Matt Norris and Kayne Stubing ranged along the frontline to keep their opponents on notice and the midfield battle was engaged with relish by Setve Ness and Jack Farrimond. With Tom Holland willing to switch play with some raking cross field passes to Chris Sawers, the Magpies looked to get behind the Hawks’ backline and Sawers obliged, drilling a low cross that begged for a final touch but neither forward could lay a boot on ball.

Stubing tried his luck from distance but the shot failed to beat the ‘keeper as Hahndorf tried to get an early goal. The Hawks countered with some neat attacking moves to keep Hahndorf’s defenders alert and they had a good chance to score but the shot found the side netting. Jones made a few good stops to get his eye in and the defence worked hard to blunt the Hawks’ attack.

Hahndorf went close when Holland found Stubing at the front post and he slid the ball across but again Hahndorf had no-one there for the final touch. Ness tried his luck with a determined run from halfway line but his shot was comfortably saved. The referee then took issue with a linesman and wanted him replaced, threatening to abandon the match before a willing spectator took over the flag waving duties.

The Hawks put Hahndorf under pressure and Craig stepped in to block a couple of Hawks shots, one returned with interest but Jones knocked it out for a corner. The visitors were unable to get much out of their corner kicks with Lewington, Hermel and Craig consistently getting to the aerial balls in the penalty area. However, they were caught out at the back post on one occasion but Jones was in good position to collect the goal-bound header.

With the half in its closing stages, Hahndorf were more than holding their own and the tight contest was producing some fine pieces of play from both teams.

The second half got off to a rude start for the Magpies who were tardy with the kickoff and the Hawks flew in to take advantage of a sloppy back pass, the visitors smacking a shot off the post to jolt the home side out of their lethargy. Sawers replied with a sharp run down the wing before he was unceremoniously brought to ground but calls for a free fell on deaf ears.

Overhead, the gathering of dark clouds looked ominous with a few spots of rain about but it was Hahndorf who were soon to be under a deluge of Hawks possession after Norris picked up his second yellow card for a rash challenge and was sent from the pitch for an early shower. The Magpies retained their defensive shape but they came under increasing pressure as the Hawks used their numerical advantage to keep the Hahndorf midfield working overtime. Several chances loomed for the visitors but Hahndorf remained resolute in defence, Lewington brilliantly cutting out one of the more promising moves by the Hawks.

Sawers remained Hahndorf’s best route to goal and several good runs down the wing almost provided the opening goal. However, it was the Hawks who were to prise open the defence, a neat build up left the Magpies short at the back and a precision finish by the unmarked Hawk gave them the lead. Minutes later they doubled their advantage with a goal by the visiting forward, a solo run across the park finished with a clinical strike into the top corner that gave Jones no chance.

Hahndorf answered with some steady build up play and a shot at goal earned them a corner. Holland picked out Sawers with the set piece but the well hit volley scraped over the bar. Hahndorf’s day looked to worsen when a Hawks player was brought down in the box but Jones enhanced his reputation as a penalty stopper with brilliant parry, his fifth save from six penalty attempts to keep the Magpies in the match.

Jordan Webber was brought on in the final ten minutes as Hahndorf gained belief from Jones’ heroics and the home team began to take the fight back to the visiting Hawks. Webber was fouled as the Magpies pushed forward and Stubing lined up the free kick from just outside the penalty area. Hahndorf moved all their big men forward for the free and Stubing drilled a low shot that Lewington expertly turned past the Hawks’ ‘keeper.

The 1-2 score further enlivened the final minutes as Hahndorf pressed for an equaliser with Holland, Stubing and Sawers all a threat. However, despite the late pressure, Hahndorf were unable to find a second goal before the entertaining match ended. The ten men of Hahndorf put up a gallant display but were unable to overcome a confident MA Hawks who have been consistent all season and fully deserve to go up to the Premier league next year.

Man of the Match for Hahndorf went to Tom Holland, who had an inspired game, with Steve Ness and Chris Sawers also in fine form. The match brings the season to an end for the Magpies and coach Steve Handley will be happy that the Club has retained a place in the 2nd Division, the first time Hahndorf has consolidated promotion to a higher league, and will look to build upon the experience gained this year to put out a competitive Hahndorf unit next season.

Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves were humbled by a rampant Hawks outfit, the two teams reliving Manchester United’s thrashing of Arsenal with an identical score line of 2-8.

Hahndorf entered the match with plenty of promise and in the early running looked to confirm that when Jordan Webber scored minutes into the match, the rambunctious forward beating a couple of defenders before finding the net with a fine strike.

However, the Hawks soon hit back through a header and the match took on a strange complexion whereby both teams created chances but only the visitors took full toll in the very open play of the first twenty-five minutes.
Kieran Guest partnered Webber up in the forward line and along with Rupert Lindon, created some good opportunities, Lindon forcing a fine save from the Hawks’ ‘keeper.

In a new look defence, Scott Breaker, Gary Ledson, Ash Parr and “El Presidente” Stuart Thomas strove to match the Hawks movement but some mix ups between them and Magpie custodian Nathaniel Brooke gifted two quick goals to the visitors. Kyle Eglinton, Tom Stevens and Angus “House” Hambrook fought to wrestle control back for the Magpies and some great passing went unrewarded with a shot cannoning off the goalpost.

With both teams in an attacking frame of mind, the open play punished mistakes and Hahndorf went further behind when Brooke misjudged a ball and was beaten to the bounce, the forward rolling the goal past the stranded ‘keeper. Webber, however, was in good form and made a tremendous strike on goal after a fine piece of control but the ‘keeper was equal to the task and parried the ball away. Another loose period of play saw the Magpies concede a fifth before half time and added to their frustration.

A stern word or three from coach Phil Stevens at the break brought Hahndorf into some semblance of shape during the second half, but again some silly errors and miscommunication was punished by the Hawks as they piled on a further three goals. Guest brought a moment of sunshine to the beleaguered Hahndorf team with an excellent strike to bring up the Magpies’ second goal but it did not lead to the revival sought by the hosts. Pockets of Hahndorf play showed that they were a genuine threat to the Hawks with some strong possession in the midfield and good chances in the attacking third of the pitch, but defensive errors cost the home team dearly.

Best on the day was Stevens, with Lindon, Webber and Eglinton competitive all match. The result was a disappointing end to the season for the Hahndorf Reserves who had been very competitive for most of the year.

Super Cs

The Super Cs went down to the top of the table McLaren District, 4-0, with Rob Green putting his hand up for Own Goal of the Year when he picked out the top corner of his own net with a class strike.

Round 17: Croydon Cougars V Hahndorf Magpies

Croydon Cougars V Hahndorf Magpies

For the penultimate round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd Division, the Hahndorf Magpies travelled to the Western suburbs where they met the Croydon Cougars in a torrid affair that saw the hosts battling to the end for a 2-1 win.

The fine weather and relatively good surface of the Cougars’ ground brought out some sparkling football by Hahndorf in the opening twenty minutes. Matt Norris and Jordan Webber put the Cougars defence under pressure as the Magpie midfield enjoyed the better possession in the opening exchanges.

The Cougars made some forward moves but the defensive line of Steve Noble, Andy Craig, Jack Farrimond and Rupert “Crusher” Lindon forced their opponents into shooting from distance and the speculative shots were comfortably dealt with by Hahndorf ‘keeper Nathaniel Brooke. Norris was proving to be a serious threat up front for the Magpies and drew the majority of the contested ball in the forward third of the pitch. Webber, Norris, Dan Hermel, Chris Sawers and Kayne Stubing all helped to keep the hosts on the back foot as chances fell to Hahndorf but despite the Magpies hitting the crossbar, their scoring chances were not converted.

Although they played the first twenty minutes largely in the Cougars half, the Magpies had little to show for it and the hosts made them pay with a quickly taken free kick that surprised the Hahndorf custodian. The goal gave the home team confidence and the match was soon evenly balanced with neither side creating many clear cut chances. Hahndorf had a great opportunity to level the score from a corner but Craig showed why he had spent the majority of his playing days in defence when he blasted a shot over the bar from close in.

The second half continued much like the first had ended, a tight tussle between the two sides with the respective defences quenching the majority of attacks. Hahndorf began to use Sawers more and the speedy winger made some telling runs into Cougar territory but the Magpies found their aim astray as Hermel and Norris shot wide.

Lindon found himself the target of some side line banter but answered his critics by repeatedly cutting out the Cougars attack on the flank and combined with the other Magpie defenders to keep the Cougars to shotting from distance. A Hahndorf free kick found the head of Norris and he knocked the ball across to Hermel but his shot went wide of goal as the Magpies pushed for an equaliser.

Tom Holland entered the match with the intensity lifting and play went end to end as each side found the defences difficult to get past. Ness remained busy deep in midfield and combined with Norris and Hermel to get Hahndorf going forward. Craig and Farrimond made a few good challenges to keep the Cougars at bay while Stubing, Norris, Holland and Hermel remained a persistent threat in attack.

With the match entering the final ten minutes the Cougars scored, an innocuous shot from distance escaping through Brooke to put the home team two goals up. Hahndorf responded with some of their best attacking play and finally broke through with a goal. Holland sent a cross-field ball to Sawers and he deftly chipped a pass into the path of Hermel who took it in his stride to centre the ball to Norris, the combative striker turning it into goal.

The Cougars responded with a volley that was lashed toward goal but Brooke made an excellent diving save to deny the score. A frantic final few minutes saw Hahndorf throw themselves into attack and they created several good opportunities but could not find the net. Norris went agonisingly close to an equaliser after Sawers low cross was forced out by the Cougars’ ‘keeper into his path, however the onrushing striker could not guide the ball into the net. A final free kick in the dying minutes gave the Magpies their last chance but Craig failed to get a touch on Stubings tumbling drive and the shot went just the wrong side of the post.

It was a highly competitive match and the Magpies will feel they did enough to get a draw but it was not to be. Man of the Match was Matt Norris, who worked tirelessly in the forward line all game with Hermel and Craig also having strong contributions.

Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves put on a clinical display to comprehensively outplay the Cougars in a 4-1 result that was richly deserved by the Magpies.

From the opening whistle, Hahndorf took the attack up to the hosting Cougars with striker Jesse Konstantinoff busy in the forward line to the extent that he was fouled in the penalty area after just a few minutes of play. Konstantinoff took the penalty kick but the Cougars’ ‘keeper did well to save the strike and the Cougars added insult to injury by scoring themselves minutes later.

Hahndorf suffered a further blow when Konstantinoff went off with an injury and he was replaced with “El Presidente” Stuart Thomas, who slotted seamlessly into central defence alongside Tim Staniford. The Magpies regrouped and defenders Ash Parr and Scott Breaker began to use the wide spaces to bring Kyle Eglinton and Angus “House” Hambrook into play. Gary Ledson and Tom Stevens took control of the middle and Chris Hyde formed a new striking partnership with Tom Holland, the latter restoring parity with an excellent goal.

The Magpies held possession in the attacking third before Holland dallied at the top of the penalty area, keeping the Cougars defence guessing before he picked out the bottom corner of goal with a fine drive. Hahndorf continued to control large portions of the match, with Magpie ‘keeper Andy Jones only called upon for some routine saves. The match swung decisively in favour of the visitors just on half time, when Hambrook, having a great game, made a burst down the flank to find Hyde in the middle and the experienced marksman drilled a volley low into the net.

After the resumption of play, Hahndorf were unrelenting in their application, the Magpie spine of Thomas, Ledson and Stevens forming a solid base to distribute the ball wide to Hambrook and Eglinton. The Magpie defence remained defiant, Breaker in particularly good form as Hahndorf pushed for further goals. Eglington heeded the call with Hahndorf’s third, neatly side footing the ball over the exposed Cougar ‘keeper after some fine build up play.

Parr made a few rampant runs at the heart of the Cougars and on one occasion, the opposition parted like the Red Sea before Moses, allowing Parr to lash a shot just wide of the mark. Hahndorf stamped their authority on the match with their fourth score of the game, Hambrook and Holland combining to present Hyde with a fine ball and he slotted away his second goal.

The match was a great result and well deserved with strong performances across the park. The Man of the match plaudits went to Scott Breaker with a plethora Magpie players close behind, including Hambrook, Hyde, Holland, Stevens, Parr and Staniford.


Super Cs

The Super Cs had a comfortable 2-1 win over local rivals Strathalbyn, the Magpies going 2 nil up by the half time break. Big Brian and Nat Stewart put the goals in for Hahndorf while ‘keeper Ben Simpson made a brilliant save from a penalty to keep Strathalbyn scoreless until the final minute of the match.

Next week all three Hahndorf teams are home for the final matches of the season, the Super Cs kicking off the day against the top ranked McLaren District with the Reserves and Firsts hosting the second placed MA Hawks, the visitors having already secured promotion to the Premier Division next season.

Round 16: Hahndorf V USC Lion

Hahndorf V USC Lion

Hahndorf all but ensured their South Australian Amateur Soccer League Division 2 survival with an epic 4-3 win over USC Lion on Saturday, a cracking winner by Chris Sawers sealing the match in the final minutes for the Magpies.

Three points separated the two sides going into the 16th round of League fixtures, the match touted as a fabled “six pointer” between the 7th placed Magpies and the 9th placed Lion teams. The pointy end of the season took on a razor sharp focus for the Magpies and they hit the ground running to go 1-0 up within the first minute. Kayne Stubing escaped on the flank to deliver a fine cross that was contested in the middle by Michael Lewington and Matt Norris, the later getting a telling touch to guide the ball into the Lion net.

Hahndorf maintained their momentum in the early phases of the match, Chris Sawers and Stubing industrious with Dan Hermel and Steve Ness in the midfield, while big forwards Norris and Lewington were an imposing threat. Lion regrouped and began to wrest possession from the Magpies, defenders Scott Schubert, Luke and Kieran Guest with Jack Farrimond finding themselves under increasing pressure as the game developed.

However, it was the Magpies who struck the next blow, a score carved out of an innocuous free kick to the top of the penalty area. With his back to the goal, Stubing brought the ball down with his chest and then created space to turn and arrow a sharp effort to the bottom corner of goal, a stunning strike that left the visitors in trouble at 2-0 down.

Hahndorf grew in confidence and found the flanks offered the best chances of scoring, speedster Sawers racing through to find Lewington in the middle but his glancing header flashed past the post with USC Lion in disarray at the back. Hahndorf kept up the pressure through Hermel and Norris, the two combining as the Magpies kept the ball in the attacking third before Ness lashed a shot wide of goal.

Hermel and Stubing continued Hahndorf’s attacking drive with a neat move but the USC Lion goalkeeper made a good interception before the duo could add to the goal tally. Several more sorties by the Magpies kept the Lion defence on their toes but it was the visitors who struck back, a counter attack catching Hahndorf out minutes before half time. Hahndorf custodian Nathaniel Brooke parried the initial shot but Lion retrieved the loose ball and a good cross to the far post gave the Lion forward a neat headed goal. Lion could have equalised a minute later, an audacious shot from forty metres almost catching Brooke out but it was high and wide of the target and the Magpies went into the break with a 2-1 lead.

After half time, Hahndorf looked to regain their two goal lead, and had several promising attacks broken down by Lion before Lewington scored, but a handball in the control of the ball saw his strike disallowed. Lion hit back with some sustained build-up but Guest brothers and Farrimond had the defence organised to dull the searching Lion attack.

Norris continued with his high work rate, latching onto a fine through ball but the Lion ‘keeper was equal to the task and beat the shot away as Norris closed in on goal. Stubing and Sawers found there was plenty of space to roam on the flanks and several times the latter exposed his marker with some deft turns and dummies to get behind the defence. Stubing fed off the spoils from Lewington who knocked down a free kick to the winger and he drilled a shot at goal only for the Lion ‘keeper to make a great diving save and tip the ball over the bar.

Despite the positive drive by the Magpies, Lion hit back with a goal to restore parity, a cross cut back to a player in the middle and a neat finish made it 2-2. Five minutes later and a revived Lion stalked out of the relegation zone with a long range strike that deceived Brooke in the air and sent the visiting team and supporters into celebration.

The intensity of the game increased as players lifted themselves for the final twenty minutes. Hahndorf and Lion exchanged attacking forays but met desperate defences determined to deny another score. Hahndorf launched a searing attack deep into Lion territory where a loose ball in the penalty area was heavily contested and the referee awarded a penalty to the Magpies. After the protestations of the visitors were silenced, Norris stepped up to the spot kick, hitting the ball cleanly into the corner for a 3-3 score and adding another layer of excitement to the highly charged contest.

The final fifteen minutes were action packed with both teams creating some fine chances. Lion had a free kick on the edge of the penalty area but wasted it by shooting over the bar. Hahndorf responded through Stubing, the winger dashing past the Lion defence to smash a shot against the crossbar. Brooke made several telling saves as Lion applied the pressure, his best effort a great tip over the bar from a long range drive.

The Hahndorf coach made some changes, injecting the fresh legs of Jordan Webber and Tom Holland into the seething cauldron of end to end football. Lion poured forward but strong rearguard action by Farrimond stopped them in their tracks. Hahndorf countered but could not break through. Lion then had the best opportunity to take the points, a scramble in the Magpies penalty area seeing the ball drop to a Lion player close to goal but he blazed his shot over the bar when he should have done better.

Hahndorf made Lion pay dearly for the miss when they drove forward, Holland splitting the Lion defence wide open with a superb ball to Sawers free on the wing. Sawers raced directly to goal and hit a thunderous shot at pace that fizzed past the advancing ‘keeper and buried in itself in the top corner of the net to send Hahndorf players and supporters into frenzied celebrations.
However, with five minutes to play, the visitors had the chance to once again even the score. Lion managed a couple of shots on goal but these were scrambled away by Brooke to maintain the lead for Hahndorf and they were able to see out the remaining time and claim the three valuable points.

The match was an epic battle between last years two promoted teams and puts Hahndorf six points clear of the relegation zone with two rounds left. Man of the match was late goal hero Chris Sawers who had a superb game on the flank with Matt Norris and Kayne Stubing also major contributors in the win.

Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves and USC Lion played out a competitive and entertaining 2-2 draw in the second fixture of the day.

Hahndorf started the match well with Kieran Guest, Angus Hambrook, Jesse Konstantinoff and Rupert “Crusher” Lindon setting out to attack the Lion unit from the outset. The Magpies moved the ball well in the initial stages and pinned the visitors back in their half. Tom Stevens was industrious in the middle of the park with good support from Kyle Eglinton and Scott Breaker. Hahndorf capitalised on their possession when they scored through Konstantinoff, the hard working forward striking fine shot to give the Magpies the lead.

Lion worked their way back into the match, giving Dan Mardle Gary Ledson and Andy Craig plenty of defensive duties as they sought to protect Andy Jones’ goal. Hahndorf created some good chances but could not take full toll of their opportunities with some neat interplay going unrewarded. The home team were making the better plays and probably should have found another goal for their endeavours. Yet it was Lion who scored, the goal a blow to the hard work of the Magpies throughout the half.

Hahndorf brought on Tim Staniford after the break as the two teams resumed play. Lion began to impose themselves more on the match and Hahndorf had to scramble a few close calls away to safety. The match was largely played in the Magpies half with the Lion putting Hahndorf under pressure for long periods of play. Perseverance paid off for the visitors when they took the lead, the Magpies tardy in possession and Lion took over to deliver a ball to the far post and finished it with a fine headed goal.

However, the Magpies were not done and showed their battling spirit to grasp a late equaliser through substitute Tom Holland, who drove in a fine curling free kick that nestled into the far corner of the net. The draw was a fair reflection of the match, Hahndorf having the better first half with Lion stronger in the second. Best for Hahndorf was Dan Mardle, who had a fine match in defence with Jesse Konstantinoff and Tom Stevens also strongly involved.

Super Cs

In the first match, Hahndorf kicked off the days triple header against CCM United, the Super Cs paving the way with a solid 3-0 win over the visitors.

Next week the Hahndorf Magpies are away to the Croydon Cougars, while the Super Cs are visiting local rivals, Strathalbyn.

Round 15: Hahndorf V Adelaide University

Hahndorf V Adelaide Uni

In a high scoring affair, league leaders Adelaide University punished early mistakes by the Hahndorf Magpies to eventually run out 3-7 winners in the 15th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd Division.

Adelaide University went into their clash against Hahndorf needing a win to guarantee a promotion spot to the Premier Division and they got off to a perfect start, opening the scoring after a few minutes. Hahndorf ‘keeper Nathaniel Brooke misread a back-pass and picked up the ball to concede a free kick well inside the area. With all the team lined up on the goal line, the Magpies repelled the initial shot and the following rebound but a third strike at goal took the aerial route and found the top corner from twenty metres.

Hahndorf handicapped themselves further five minutes later when Andy Craig lost possession in defence and the University forwards pounced to advance, outnumbering the ‘keeper, they slotted the ball past the stranded Brooke. The Hahndorf defence, comprised of Craig, Ash Parr, Angus Hambrook and a Scott Schubert, was a new combination and they took time to adjust to the movement and speed of the Adelaide outfit. Steve Ness and Dan Hermel worked hard in heart of the midfield and tried to release wide men Jordan Webber and Tom Holland, however the University countered with some slick passes and movement to breech the Hahndorf goal for a third time before the twenty-five minute mark.

Hahndorf managed to construct some sweeping moves forward, Matt Norris the principle target with Kayne Stubing looking to get behind the Adelaide defenders. The Magpies created several chances, using the wings to good effect and getting some shots on the opposition goal. Unfortunately for the Magpies, they conceded a penalty just before half time and after the Adelaide side converted the spot kick, the home team went into the break trailing by four goals.

Upon the resumption of play, Hahndorf resolved to put a better account of themselves and did start to match Adelaide University across the park. Hermel and Ness continued to do the hard graft in the middle while Norris was a dominant presence in the forward line. Holland stayed wide and combined with Parr and Stubing to have Hahndorf stretching University wide.

The flanks offered Hahndorf the best avenue to goal and it was via this route that the Magpies grabbed a goal back, a cross leading to an errant handball in the area due to Norris and Webber’s pressure. Norris took the spot kick and placed it neatly in the corner before the referee asked for the kick to be retaken. The captain responded well by smashing his second effort into the opposite side of goal to get Hahndorf on the board.

The Magpies doubled their tally soon after, Holland releasing Stubing wide and the speedy attacker raced down the flank to deliver a fine cross. Norris timed his run perfectly to elude his marker and headed the ball over the advancing ‘keeper to make it 2-4. Two goals in quick succession put life into the match and the intensity lifted as Hahndorf sniffed an unlikely chance to reel in their opposition. However, after weathering a series of Magpie attacks, the University side responded with a fifth goal, the forwards again finding a loose player close to goal.

The two teams continued to engage in the thrust and parry of the second half and University converted a good chance on goal for a 2-6 score line. Hahndorf took stock and once again looked to the flanks to deliver the goods. Switching play from the back, the Magpies advanced down the wing and another Stubing cross had Norris and Ness contesting for the ball in the penalty area. The ball was scrambled to the edge of the box where Hermel pounced to drive a shot past the crowd of players and find the corner of the net.

The plethora of goals was not quite finished however and with both teams tiring, it was Adelaide University who managed to squeeze in one more for the day, a neat series of passes ending in a tap in from metres out to round out the scoring at 3-7. Matt Norris was peerless in earning the Man of the match honours, with Scott Schubert and Dan Hermel making strong contributions.

While the Magpies were disappointing in the first half, they put in a much improved second stanza and will be encouraged by their form on the attack. The return of some key players will bolster the defence in the coming weeks with a couple of crucial matches coming up after a week off due to the quarter finals of the Cup competition.


Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves put in a brave effort against the table topping Adelaide University Reserves, an early Magpie strike cancelled out by four unanswered goals to the visitors.

An experimental line up by the Magpies saw them get off to a flying start when two minutes in, central midfielder Michael Lewington latched onto Jesse Konstantinoff’s early pass to blast a rising shot into the top corner of goal from twenty metres. With Chris Hyde, Kieran Guest and Konstantinoff roaming the forward line, supported by Kyle Eglinton, Tom Stevens and Lewington, the Magpies continued to have the upper hand on the University side during the early phases.

Hahndorf pushed the visitors into their own half, keen to add further scores to the board as they looked to capitalise on first use of the slope. University replied with a few chances over the bar as they sought to find a way past the defence of Ash Parr, Tim Staniford, Scott Breaker and “El Presidente” Stuart Thomas. Hahndorf custodian Andy Jones made a couple of sharp saves but within ten minutes the visitors had equalised, a slick movement leaving a free man at the top of the penalty area and he picked out the inside of the goalpost with a low shot.

The equaliser emboldened the University side and they put Hahndorf under pressure with a series of attacks but the Magpies held firm. Parr put in a trademark bustling run, slicing past several players to shoot and earn Hahndorf a corner that was promptly wasted by the Magpies. The teams traded attacks with the University hitting the crossbar with a fine shot before a Hahndorf free kick led to a bit of a scramble in Adelaide’s penalty area, Guest scything his shot wide in the melee.

The match was turning into a fairly even affair when the visitors took the lead; a short Hahndorf clearance was picked up and returned with interest to give Jones no chance. The lead encouraged University and they nearly extended their tally but for Jones making two tremendous, consecutive saves. Guest replied for the Magpies but pushed his header wide from a promising corner kick. Pressure just before half time by Adelaide was alleviated by Breaker, the full back making several telling tackles and interceptions as the visitors threatened.

Hahndorf brought on several players at the break, Ben “Beninho” Wells, Dan Mardle and Alex Robson, all backing up from the previous Super Cs fixture, as the Hills team looked to peg back the league leaders. However, University had other ideas and exposed the Magpies on the wings to open up a productive route to goal.

The Magpies defended well but the pressure took its toll and the Adelaide side broke through for their third score of the day. Hahndorf replied to put in several good moves but could not unravel the University defence for the answering goal. The visitors built up their attack and peppered the Hahndorf goal, giving Jones the opportunity to work on his fitness and shot-stopping skills.

Late into the match Adelaide eventually drew a penalty and scored, putting a dent in Jones’ extraordinary perfect record in penalty saves up to that point. The Magpies were disappointed to have conceded the four goals after a great start but with several players backing up after playing in the Super Cs, it was always going to be a tough ask. Best on the day for the Magpies was Michael Lewington, the big man in superb form with Kyle Eglinton and Andy Jones with great support.

Super Cs

The Super Cs got the day of football off to a fine start for the Magpies with a strong 3-0 win over Mt Lofty Eagles, Robbie Green showed age had not diminished his finishing skills with all three goals. Next week is a Cup round and the only team on display will be the Super Cs when they venture to Pt Elliot to take on the Southern Breakers.

Round 14 Southern Breakers V Hahndorf Magpies

Southern Breakers V Hahndorf

Hahndorf posted an impressive win against a lacklustre Southern Breakers, a brace of goals to Leo Santangelo and a hat-trick to Kayne Stubing boosting the Magpies to an emphatic 0-6 victory.

With five rounds remaining in the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd Division, the scramble for points is well underway for the clubs in the lower half of the table. Subsequently the clash at Breaker Park between 7th placed Hahndorf and 10th placed Southern Breakers held plenty of interest for the parties concerned and drew a healthy crowd on a sparkling day.

The Breakers started on the front foot from the opening whistle, using local knowledge to attack with the sun and slope behind them. The Magpies fended off the early forays, the combination of youngsters Jack Farrimond and Luke Guest with veterans Steve Noble and Andy Craig working hard to keep the Breakers at bay.

Nathaniel Brooke was busy in goal, but only faced one real test when Breakers player-coach Glen Higgins tried a shot from distance that hit the goalpost and then the rebound was slashed wide by the following forwards. Hahndorf continued to soak up the pressure before the midfield kicked into gear and Dan Hermel made a strong run down the flank to put in a low cross for forward Kayne Stubing to fire into the net.

Minutes later Hahndorf doubled their lead after a structured build up saw the Magpies attack the goal in numbers with Leo Santangelo heading a cross back to Stubing who had a simple tap in for his second goal. However it was not all beer and skittles for Hahndorf when they lost a player for a straight red card offence with twenty minutes remaining in the half.

The Magpies regrouped and quickly adjusted their structure and made light of the loss by firing in a third goal. Stubing was rampant on the flank and glided past his marker to arrow a cross to Chris Sawers, the marksman chesting down the ball before taking it past the Breakers’ keeper and blasting into goal.

Hahndorf continued to work hard throughout the half with Steve Ness, Hermel and Matt Norris harassing the opposition at every opportunity while the defence countered the pressure of the Breakers with stubborn resistance.

The Magpies went into the second half determined to hold on to their lead and not let the Breakers back into the match. The defence were organised to dull the expected attack by the home side, Craig and Guest holding the spine and linking with the midfield. Norris and Ness tirelessly trekked the midfield to make the Breakers accountable and the hosts had trouble getting a cohesive attack together.

The constant chasing and pressure by the Magpies all over the pitch led to the fourth goal, Santangelo capitalising on a slight lapse in defence to take possession and lose his marker with a smart turn before striking a curling drive into goal from the edge of the penalty area.

The fourth goal seemed to knock the wind out of the Breakers and they looked all at sea, such was the application of the Magpies towards their goal. Things got worse for the home team when ten minutes later Hahndorf gained themselves a penalty, an unlucky handball giving Santangelo the chance to put the match well beyond the Breakers. Santangelo duly stuck the penalty into the net but an infringement forced a retake of the spot kick. Lightning did strike twice with Santangelo true to form and again hitting a solid shot into goal.

Hahndorf made several substitutions, bringing Tom Holland and Jordan Webber into the match, the pair picking up the pace and intensity straight away. Holland made an impact within ten minutes, a precision pass slicing through the defence to put Stubing through on goal and the speedy forward brought up his hat-trick with a fine strike to the corner of the net.

Hahndorf kept up the intensity for the remainder of the match, the Breakers getting a few chances but Brooke had the shots well covered and the closest the sea-siders got was a cross that skimmed past the top of the post late into the match.

The win by Hahndorf was a tremendous team effort with all players applying themselves for the full ninety minutes. Man of the Match honours went to Kayne Stubing,the hat-trick hero having a tremendous match with Matt Norris and Luke Guest also outstanding throughout the game.

Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves fought out a 1-1 draw with the Southern Breakers Reserves, both teams having the chance to take the win but unable to find the crucial goal.

Hahndorf started the match well, the Magpies getting off to a good start with Rupert “Crusher” Lindon in the mix with a couple of early headers that were on target but lacked penetration. The Breakers shaped up to a couple of opportunities but the Hahndorf defence was well organised by Angus Hambrook, with Dan Mardle, Kieran Guest and Kyle Eglinton providing good support.

The Hahndorf forward line of Chris Hyde and Jesse Konstantinoff worked with the midfield to get the Magpies into some promising positions however the finishing touches were absent, several shots going high and wide of the goal. Tom Holland and Jordan Webber produced some nice passes in combination with Eglinton as the Magpies tried to mount an attack on the flank.

The avenue did eventually prove fruitful for Webber, set free to attack the full back, he muscled his way past to run in on goal and open the scoring with a fine finish. The Breakers hit back with a structured attack but a saving tackle by Hambrook kept Hahndorf custodian, Andy Jones from facing a shot in a dangerous position.

Tom Stevens was industrious in the middle of the park, combining with Holland and Webber to keep the pressure on the Southern Breakers. Webber almost forced a second goal but the Breakers ‘keeper made a good save at the feet of the flighty wingman. The Magpies put together some flowing passes but could not convert their possession into a greater lead.

The second half opened with Hahndorf pressing the Breakers back and some good work released Konstantinoff but the ‘keeper parried the strikers shot. The match ebbed and flowed with the Magpies having the majority of the play but the Breakers also have a few opportunities to score.
The match looked like it was to be decided by a single goal with both teams finding the respective defences hard to break through.

Hahndorf brought on Scott Breaker, Stuart Thomas and Ben “Beninho” Wells to see if the injection of fresh legs could extend their goal advantage but late in the match the Breakers equalised. The intensity suddenly increased as both teams sought to find a winner in the dying stages of the match.

The points looked to be headed the Breakers way when they were awarded a penalty deep into the second half, but Jones again defied the odds to make the save, the Magpie custodian remarkably making it three penalty saves from as many chances. The penalty was the last effective scoring opportunity and the match ended with the points shared. Angus Hambrook gained Man of the Match honours for the Magpies with strong contributions from Rupert Lindon, Jesse Konstantinoff and Kyle Eglinton also prominent.

Next week Hahndorf play host to league leaders Adelaide University, the Magpies looking to carry over this weeks form to the match at the Pine Avenue arena.

Round 13: Hahndorf V Comets

Hahndorf Magpies V Adelaide Comets

In a tight contest, two errors proved costly for the Hahndorf Magpies as they went down to the Adelaide Comets 0-2 on an overcast and frosty Saturday afternoon.

The Magpies went into the match missing a couple of regulars but as the previous weeks had shown, they had the depth to cover the absences. From the opening whistle both teams showed they were determined to claim the three points, exchanging opening salvos before settling into the cut and thrust of the main event.

Fifteen minutes into the match the Comets opened the scoring, taking advantage of a collision that left Hahndorf ‘keeper Nathaniel Brooke out of position and the Comets forward recovered first to bury the ball into goal.

The Magpies had a chance to equalise soon after, Matt Norris targeted with a free kick and laying off for Tom Holland but he dragged his shot wide. The Comets answered with a sharp volley but Brooke reacted well to push the shot wide.

The match descended into a scrappy period where neither team was able to string a series of passes together, several goalmouth scrambles not capitalised on by the Magpies and both teams turning over the ball in midfield.

The Hahndorf defence of Jack Farrimond, Michael Lewington, Steve Noble and Ash Parr were put under pressure by the Comets forwards but were well organised to quell the threat. Farrimond was in particularly good form throughout the match with several timely tackles that halted promising moves.

An audacious attempt by the Comets could have been a goal of the year contender when a shot from the centre circle sailed past Brooke and crashed off the crossbar. Further Comets advances gave them the chance to add to their score but their aim was astray.

For Hahndorf, Parr and Kayne Stubing combined down the wing but the good cross eluded the Magpies forwards as the home team looked to get on the front foot; Stubing hitting a free kick that caused some concern from the Comets’ ‘keeper. Norris roamed the forward line like a marauding lion and won all the high balls lofted his way but Hahndorf failed to take advantage of his aerial prowess.

After the half time break, Hahndorf went on the attack through Steve Ness, Luke Guest, Chris Sawers and Norris. Although the Magpies held the ball in the attacking third, they were not able to capitalise with a telling shot at goal. The early pressure was undone soon after, when a poor defensive pass was cut out by the Comets and was returned with interest, Brooke parrying the initial shot but the ball fell to the Comets who put away the loose ball.

The Magpies sought to make amends through Norris and Holland, the pair putting Stubing through on goal and he forced a desperate lunge by the Comets defender who almost guided the ball into his own net.

Holland and Stubing set up Ness but his chip was a little too high and landed on top of the goal netting as Hahndorf searched for a goal to get them back into the match. A solid period of pressure saw chances fall to Norris and Sawers while Holland found Stubing with a fine pass but the speedy forward slipped his shot the wrong side of the goalpost.

The tempo increased in the last fifteen minutes, several willing tackles drawing the ire of supporters and coaching staff of both teams. Jordan Webber and Jesse Konstantinoff entered the fray as the Magpies pressed for a goal. They found the Comets defence in a miserly mood however and despite creating some good chances, Hahndorf were unable to trouble the scoreboard, the final whistle confirming the two nil score.

The Magpies Man of the Match was Matt Norris, who was outstanding all day, with Jack Farrimond and Steve Ness putting solid contributions.



Reserves
The Hahndorf and Comets Reserves fought out an entertaining and at times heated battle, before a late goal to the visitors gave them a 1-2 win.

Hahndorf started the match brightly and took the match up to the Comets as they settled quickly into rhythm. John Lawler, Jesse Konstantinoff, Gary Ledson and Rupert “Crusher” Lindon won the early midfield battles to put the Magpies on the front foot. Chris Hyde and Kieran Guest plied their talents in the forward line, putting the Comets defence on alert and leading to a textbook opening goal.

A slick move by Hahndorf moved the ball quickly into the attacking third and Guest was released on the flank. Reaching the by-line the lanky forward cut the ball back across the penalty area. An untracked Lindon timed his run to perfection and raced into the area to strike the ball first time, lashing it past the Comets ‘keeper and into the net.

The Magpies tried to add to their lead but failed to find the finishing touches and the Comets began to claw their way into the match. The defensive line was resilient to the Comets’ attack, veteran Andy Craig marshalling Scott Breaker, Tim Staniford and Dan Mardle to foil the visitors attempts at goal. Magpie ‘keeper Andy Jones was called upon several times but the shots were largely ineffectual despite the Comets getting into some good positions. However, minutes from half time the Comets equalised, a forward escaping his marker to poke in the goal from twelve metres.

The Comets continued to press in the second half and the Magpie defenders worked overtime to keep the threat at bay. Although the Comets held the majority of play in Hahndorf’s half, they failed to generate many shots on goal and Jones made light work of those that were.

Some frustrations crept into the match and an altercation at a corner kick drew vociferous protestations from both teams but the referee did not sympathise with either side and play continued. Hahndorf managed to combine some nice passes to get Guest away on the flank and he delivered a fine ball for Lawler to fire into goal but a late and very dubious offside call ruled out the score.

Five minutes from time, the Comets broke through the Magpies defence and a hesitation at a crucial time allowed the Comets forward to nip in and score from seven metres. The goal was a cruel blow to the Magpies who had probably done enough for a share of the points. Man of the Match for Hahndorf was Rupert Lindon, with strong contributions from Kieran Guest, Tim Staniford and Dan Mardle.

Reserves Cup 3rd Round

Last week, the Hahndorf Reserves made the long trek to Elizabeth Downs to take on the powerhouse Premier Division Sunday side in the 3rd round of the Cup.

The Magpies found themselves on the back foot early on and conceded a goal, with a hint of offside, fifteen minutes in. The Magpies struck back however, launching a counter attack through Ash Parr, the versatile Magpie linking with Dan Holland and Kayne Stubing to release Angus Hambrook. The flighty winger needed no second invitation and equalised with a thunderous shot into the roof of the net.

The Downs continued to pressure the Hills team and scored two more goals after taking full advantage of mistakes in the Hahndorf back line to go into the break with a 3-1 lead. Hahndorf weren’t without their chances however, with Hambrook having several good opportunities, the closest hitting the crossbar.

Hahndorf tried to rally in the second half, defending grimly and trying to hit the hosts on the counter attack. Hahndorf ‘keeper Nathaniel Brooke was the busier custodian on the day and served up a mixed grill between the sticks, solid stops and brave saves punctuated with moments of comedic handling.

The Downs continued to use the wide expanses of their ground to good effect, stretching defensive players Dan Mardle, Andy Craig, Steve Ness and Scott Breaker. Substitute John Lawler, Jesse Konstantinoff and Holland fought hard in the middle but Elizabeth Downs added two more goals before Hahndorf struck back late in the match. Holland and Hambrook combining to send Stubing through on goal and the speedy striker made no mistake to score the final goal of the match, the 5-2 score line ending the Cup run of Hahndorf for this season.

Super Cs
The Super Cs suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Flinders University, a second half Tony Carter goal some consolation after Hahndorf missed a penalty in the first half.

Next week Hahndorf take the journey to the picturesque Port Elliot ground to meet the Southern Breakers, both teams hungry for the three points on offer, while the Super Cs will be hosting Old Ignatians at the Pine Avenue Arena.

Round 12: Vipers V Hahndorf Magpies

Vipers V Hahndorf

In a classic game of two halves, the Hahndorf Magpies were unable to maintain their stunning first half display when the Vipers produced a surging second stanza, the 3-3 final result leaving both teams rueing missed opportunities.

The Vipers went into the 12th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd Division looking to maintain their title challenge, the 13 points separating the two teams making the hosts firm favourites. However, after a quick start where both teams traded attacking moves, it was Hahndorf who opened the scoring after ten minutes. Matt Norris, revelling in his move forward, lobbed a ball over the Viper defence for Chris Sawers to nip in before the advancing ‘keeper and slot away the goal.

Hahndorf had the occasion to immediately double their lead but twice the Vipers’ ‘keeper foiled good one-on-one chances. Soon after, Leo Santangelo made a bustling run through the defence but dragged his shot wide of the post. The Magpie defence of Jack Farrimond, Steve Noble, Micheal Lewington and Rupert “ Crusher” Lindon neutralised the early Viper threats but had to rely on custodian Nathaniel Brooke several times. The big ‘keeper made a great save to deflect a goal bound shot and then utilised the goal post for a scrambling double save when a Viper shot was angled in at the front upright.

Dan Hermel and Steve Ness worked hard in the midfield with Santangelo, the trio feeding wide men Sawers and Kayne Stubing. Ness latched onto a loose ball after Lewington challenged well at a corner kick but drove the ball past the post. Santangelo persisted with some skilful, foraging runs but his errant shooting was a poor result for his excellent build up play.

Minutes from half time, Hahndorf took a stranglehold on the match with a brace of goals after a period of patient possession. Holding ball in the attacking half, Farrimond chipped a neat ball to Norris and the part-time striker headed over the stranded Vipers ‘keeper into the net. One minute later, a flowing move released Sawers on the wing and he skipped past two opponents on his way to the by-line. Sawers drove in a low cross for Stubing to race in and flick past the ball past the beleaguered Vipers custodian and send the Magpies into the break with a handy three-goal lead.

In the second half, the Vipers showed their intent by launching an attack directly from the kick-off, the threat safely negated by Brooke. Hahndorf answered through Norris and Farrimond combining, the former lofting a neat ball through to Stubing who beat the ‘keeper with a fine lob that grazed the wrong side of the post.

The Vipers stepped up a gear but found their radar astray, the Vipers Assou-Ekotto look-alike having a good chance after weaving through some ineffectual Hahndorf defence. However, Brooke was on hand to effect the saves when the Vipers’ shots were true, the big ‘keeper making some telling stops.

A nagging injury forced Norris from the field, giving Kieran Guest the chance to shine on the overcast day. The substitute should have put the Magpies further ahead when he chased a long ball deep into Vipers’ territory and a mix-up between goalkeeper and defender presented Hahndorf with a golden opportunity but Guest blazed high and wide with the goal beckoning.

The teams continued to exchange attacks but neither looked like scoring until the Vipers eventually made an attack count to pull a goal back with twenty minutes remaining. The goal offered a glimmer of hope for the Vipers and they pressed forward at every opportunity. Jesse Konstantinoff entered the match as half chances fell to both sides with the tempo increasing, Hermel and Stubing combining to forge some strong moves down the left wing but the Magpies failed to capitalise on the opportunities.

The Vipers took advantage, working the ball through the middle of the park until a low shot from just inside the penalty area found the corner of the net. At 3-2, Hahndorf found the Vipers frantically throwing themselves forward to find an equaliser in the final ten minutes. Sawers made a couple of vital tackles with the Magpies defending against waves of Viper pressure.

End to end attacks left the Magpies shy of the target and the Vipers were creating the more dangerous opportunities, the pressure telling when they equalized four minutes from time. The Magpies tried to regroup and hang on a share of the points but a rash challenge gave the Vipers a chance for a remarkable turnaround when they were awarded a penalty kick. The tension was palpable as the penultimate kick of the match was taken, Brooke diving the right way but the shot passing wide of the upright, agony and relief washing over players and supporters of both clubs.

The 3-all draw gives the Magpies another point on their way to consolidating their position on the ladder but there will be concerns as to the way Hahndorf has frittered away good leads in the past two matches. Man of the match for Hahndorf was Dan Hermel, his tenacity and play making a highlight with Chris Sawers and Matt Norris also having a large impact on the match.

Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves continued their mid-season revival with a fighting 2-1 win against the Vipers, goals to Scott Breaker and Tom Stevens putting the Magpies in the box seat early on.

Light drizzle swept across the St Clair ground at the start of the match, making the exemplary surface slick but maintaining a true bounce for the two teams. The opening exchanges saw no real threats on goal until Hahndorf broke the match open through a Scott Breaker special on ten minutes, the right back rifling in a shot from distance and the ball slipping through the unfortunate ‘keeper’s outstretched fingers.

Five minutes later, a period of possession deep in the Vipers half gave Hahndorf a two goal lead, Tom Stevens looking to lay off a ball to Jesse Konstantinoff but he collected his rebound to volley past a stunned Viper defence from twelve metres.
The Vipers bounced back with some sharp attacks but veteran defender Andy Craig organised the backline of Tim Staniford, Breaker and Dan Mardle to keep goalkeeper Andy Jones’ goal safe. The Vipers relied on the speed of their centre forward but some good defence nullified the threat and Jones made a brilliant diving save to deflect a low, goal-bound shot, the hosts best chance of the half.

Hahndorf’s midfield combined well to move the ball into attack, Tom Holland, Angus Hambrook, Stevens and Kieran Guest exchanging passes to bring forwards Konstantinoff and Chris Hyde into play as the half developed.

The second half saw the Vipers make a more concerted effort in attack, pushing more players forward but the Magpies remained resolute in defence of their lead. Hambrook worked overtime with Holland, Hyde and Konstantinoff to maintain possession with Hahndorf searching for a third goal. Several good chances fell the Magpies way, both Hyde and Holland hitting the post after some quality individual play.

Hahndorf brought on Ben “Beninho” Wells, Brad Coleman and John Lawler as the Vipers cause grew more urgent. A penalty to the home side gave them an opening but Jones was physically and verbally defiant in goal, diving to save the spot kick and putting doubt into the Viper camp. However, with fifteen minutes remaining, Craig deflected an otherwise innocuous shot into the corner of goal to revive the Viper hopes.

A further blow befell the Magpies when goal hero Breaker had to leave the field with the Vipers pressing for an equaliser and stretching the ten remaining Magpies. The visitors determinedly defended a late onslaught of corners and time eventually ran out to give Hahndorf a hard fought victory.

Hahndorf had strong contributions from across the park however Angus Hambrook took home the Man of the Match honours with Andy Jones and Chris Hyde also prominent with their efforts.

Next week is a break for the League but sees a return to Cup competition for the Reserves when they travel to take on Premier Division powerhouse Elizabeth Downs on Sunday.

Round 11: Hahndorf V Adelaide Budapest

Hahndorf V Adelaide Budapest

A second half fightback by Adelaide Budapest ensured Hahndorf shared the points in their encounter for the 10th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd Division.

Despite persistent rain and slippery, muddy conditions, the match between Hahndorf and Adelaide Budapest was showered with goals in the opening twenty-five minutes. Budapest were the first to strike minutes from the kick-off, a speculative shot skipping on the greasy surface and cannoning off Hahndorf ‘keeper Nathaniel Brooke to fall for the Budapest forward to slot in.

However the lead was short lived when Hahndorf hit back. Forward Jesse Konstantinoff forged a run to the by-line and cut his pass back to Steve Ness, the midfielder striking cleanly to find the bottom right of goal. The teams exchanged further chances before the Magpies went ahead through Dan Hermel, the tricky winger swooping on a loose ball on the edge of the Budapest penalty area and finding the net with a lethal left foot strike.

The home team pressed forward to extend their advantage and were in the box seat when Budapest conceded a penalty, Luke Guest taking responsibility and giving the ‘keeper no chance with his precise spot kick. At 3-1 up the match looked to be within Hahndorf’s control, but there were no guarantees considering the nature of the pitch and the competitive rivalry between the sides.

Returning after a two-week sojourn, Steve Noble lead the Magpie backline of Michael Lewington, Ash Parr and Kyle Eglinton, the quartet finding conditions challenging and the Budapest forwards keen to find the target. Guest anchored the midfield, with Ness, Hermel and Kayne Stubing all involved in the combative possession for control of the middle. Brooke made some vital saves, knocking a stinging shot down before recovering the ball under pressure.

Leo Santangelo played up front but often dropped back to pick up the ball and he had several surging runs resulting in searching shots going wide of the Budapest goal. As the half drew to a close, a few willing tackles from both teams threatened to escalate but some stern words from the referee kept emotions from boiling over.

The Magpies started the second half brightly, holding the ball in the attacking third before Ness poked a shot over the bar. Budapest responded and Brooke was called upon to make two good saves in quick succession as the match and the rain opened up. Konstantinoff showed his skills, latching onto a neat through ball and beating two opponents but pulled his shot across the face of goal.

In defence, Noble stopped a potential threat on the edge of the penalty area with a fine tackle but soon after Hahndorf conceded a goal to Budapest, a long throw finding its way through the box and it was slotted away at the far post.

The goal inspired the visitors and their vocal supporters and they pushed forward again in search of an equaliser but found Noble in their path with another quality tackle. Guest was attracting plenty of the ball and was finding the conditions to his liking to provide a focal point in the centre for Hahndorf. Santangelo also produced some strong runs but could not beat the ‘keeper with a ranging efforts.

After watching his brother enjoying the mud and rain, Kieran Guest entered the match and had a positive impact almost straight away, the lanky forward getting on a break but shooting just wide with the ‘keeper to beat. Parr continued to impress along with Hermel, his fleet feet often keeping him one step ahead of the opposition on the slippery surface.

Lewington had the chance to put the Magpies further ahead but upon getting on the end of a well-flighted free kick, his far post header found the Budapest ‘keeper in good form and the shot was saved. The precipitation remained persistent, but did not dampen the endeavour of either side, the combatants going end to end but failing to get an effective strike on goal.

However, five minutes from time, Budapest equalised with a curled shot into the top corner, a deft move leaving the Hahndorf defence wrong-footed and opening up the goal. Hahndorf threw themselves forward to regain their lead and almost did in the final minutes. K.Guest made space and rifled a searing shot at goal but the Budapest ‘keeper made a tremendous diving save to deflect the goal-bound ball.

The entertaining 3-3 result gave both sets of fans something to cheer about on a chilly, rain swept day and also kept both teams clear of the relegation zone. Best on the day for Hahndorf was Luke Guest, a powerful presence on the park, with Steve Noble and Dan Hermel also giving strong performances.


Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves dominated large passages of play and a brace of goals to Chris Hyde led to the Magpies running out 4-1 winners in a sometimes spiteful encounter.

Sweeping and torrential rain tested the drainage system at the Pine Avenue arena to produce a playable surface that both teams took time to adjust to. Hahndorf pushed Budapest back from the outset with John Lawler, Tom Stevens, Rupert “Crusher” Lindon and Chris Sawers taking charge of the midfield and giving Chris Hyde and Kieran Guest opportunities up front. Hahndorf employed a shoot-on-sight policy in the treacherous conditions and had the Budapest ‘keeper scrambling on several occasions but the shots were often wayward by the Magpies.

Lawler created space and shot truly but the ball cannoned off both posts before being cleared by the relieved Budapest defenders. Hyde had a shot hit the bar and Lindon had two chances from acute angles that failed to find the net.

In defence Hahndorf were comfortable, experienced central pair Andy Craig and Matt Norris combining with Scott Breaker and Dan Mardle to leave ‘keeper Andy Jones barely getting a touch in the first half. Despite having the majority of the play it took till well over half an hour for the home team to find the net. A persistent build up drew Hyde onto the ball just wide of goal and he evaded a tackle before sliding the ball across the goal to nestle just inside the post.

In the second half the Magpies tried to increase their advantage but it was Budapest who had the best chance early on. A rasping shot from distance drew Jones into action and he tipped the long-range effort over the bar, serving a wake up call for the Magpies. Several heated moments threatened to erupt but cooler heads prevailed as Hahndorf added a second, Hyde again the scorer with a neat finish at the near post after a fine cross from Lawler.

Brad Coleman and Tim Staniford entered the match as Hahndorf looked to increase their lead. Moments after moving into the forward line Norris notched up Hahndorf’s third goal with a fine drive to round off a sweeping move. Budapest then hit back through a strange passage of play, players of both sides almost wrestling each other and forgetting to play the ball before it was crossed into the middle and a Budapest player drove it onto the net.

Any thoughts of a Budapest revival were soon quashed however as Sawers went on a determined run from halfway, cutting a swathe through five opponents before drilling an unstoppable shot into the net for a 4-1 score line. Hyde had chances to extend the lead and claim a hat-trick but spurned several good opportunities, the closest a header that skimmed the bar.

The win was a great result in trying conditions and maintains momentum for the Reserves as they look to improve their record in the second half of the season. Best on the day for the Magpies was Tom Stevens who was diligent in the midfield, with the two Chris’, Hyde and Sawers also in the frame with their goals.

Next week the Hahndorf Magpies face a difficult trip away to the Vipers while the Super C’s take on the Northern Wolves at Pine Avenue.

Round 10: Adelaide Titans V Hahndorf

Adelaide Titans V Hahndorf

Hahndorf suffered a bitter defeat against the Adelaide Titans in the tenth round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League, the Hills side punished for not taking their chances in the 5-1 loss.

The two teams began the match three points apart in mid-table and the opening exchanges reflected this, neither side taking an immediate grip of the game. The Magpies kicked with the stiff wind and tried to make use of the firm, wide surface, utilising the speedsters Kayne Stubing and Jordan Webber up front. Webber looked to have scored for the Magpies but was deemed to have been offside when he received a through ball.

The Titans replied with the opening goal; what appeared to be a legitimate handball call was ignored by the referee and the Titans’ exchanged a couple of passes on the edge of the box before firing past Hahndorf ‘keeper Mark McGrath. Hahndorf should have equalised soon after, a corner finding Matt Norris and he headed across goal to Leo Santangelo but the usually reliable sharpshooter fired over the bar from ten metres.

Dan Hermel was busy in the midfield, his quick feet and skill pinpointing passes to Luke Guest, Steve Ness and Santangelo, the latter set up by Hermel but dragging his shot wide. Hahndorf settled into the match and put together some nice moves and the defensive line containing Jack Farrimond, Michael Lewington, Norris and Ash Parr looked more comfortable.

However, an ill-timed challenge by Norris presented the Titans with a penalty and they duly slotted it down the middle to go 2-0 up. The Magpies did not seem to be getting the rub of the green and soon they were 3-0 down after a free kick was driven deep into the penalty box, the ball ricocheting off a few players before going into the net.

Hahndorf rallied to get some forward momentum, Guest and Hermel the major protagonists with Parr very solid in defence. Ness found some space out wide and crossed to Santangelo but again the shot at goal was wayward. Luck was not on the visitor’s side with several decisions not going Hahndorf’s way and this added to their frustration. The half ended badly for the Magpies when a nasty knee injury forced McGrath from the field, leaving Guest to take the gloves and giving Rupert “Crusher” Lindon another 45 minutes of action after his Reserves exploits.

The Titans began the second stanza with a firm examination of Guest’s goalkeeping skills, the utility player tipping a fierce drive over the bar and then later showing fine positional sense to collect a shot after it rebounded off the post. Hahndorf fought back to mount a few attacks but had trouble finding a clear shot on goal, Parr having the best effort after beating two opponents but shooting wide of the mark.

The match threatened to descend into chaos after an altercation saw handbags at two yards but in a strange twist the referee allowed play to continue before deciding a drop ball was the way to go.

The match ebbed and flowed with neither team threatening goal until Hahndorf sat off the Titans and they scored with goal of the match, a fierce drive from distance finding the top corner and giving Guest no chance. With twenty minutes remaining, Kieran Guest was brought on but it was his goalkeeper brother that saw the next action, making a great save from a free kick before Parr and Hermel combined to clear the danger.

The teams continued to trade attacks before Hahndorf finally made a good guild up count, K.Guest striking a fine shot that found the inside of the post, for a 4-1 score. The goal encouraged the Magpies and they pushed for a further score, a loose ball in the Titans penalty area bouncing around until it was poked wide of goal. Santangleo then cut a swathe through the Titans defence, pulling the ball back to K.Guest but his volley went straight at the Titan’s ‘keeper.

The Titan’s chanced their arm with a long ball over the top that beat everyone except Parr who cleared off the line. Defender Norris then turned attacker, going on a surging run and exchanging passes with K.Guest but his defender gene regained control and he too shot at the ‘keeper.

The Titans sealed the match with their fifth, a neat build up resulting in a goal from the six-yard box. Jesse Konstantinoff made a late entry to the game and was involved in Hahndorf’s last meaningful attack, Parr showing extraordinary skill to leave two opponents in his wake and finding Santangelo. Konstantinoff picked up Santangelo’s pass and centred to K.Guest, his shot unfortunatey finding the near post.

The result was a blow to the Magpies and they will look to regroup before next weeks important encounter with Budapest. Best on the day for Hahndorf was Dan Hermel who held the midfield together and was instrumental on the ball. Ash Parr was a major contributor in defence and attack with Luke Guest also having a fine game on the pitch and in the goalkeeper role.



Reserves

A brace of goals to Kieran Guest in the first half laid the foundation for the Hahndorf Reserves to topple the second-placed Adelaide Titans, the strong defensive Magpie unit frustrating the hosts during the 1-3 win.

The Magpies kicked with the fresh breeze in the first half, looking to capitalise on the prevailing conditions on the wide, even pitch. Nathaniel Brooke returned to take his place between the sticks with Kyle Eglinton, Andy Craig, Tim Staniford and Dan Mardle forming the back line. The visitors initially pushed the Titans onto the back foot with some early forays forward, but Kieran Guest and Jesse Konstantinoff did not trouble the home ‘keeper during the early exchanges.

The Titans moved the ball well into the wind but Shaun Smith, Angus Hambrook, Rupert “Crusher” Lindon and John Lawler worked hard to close them down in the midfield. The Titans had several good chances to open the scoring but their shots were errant and Brooke made a couple of good saves to keep the score sheet clean. The Magpies hit back with some efforts of their own; Hambrook celebrated his return to open play with an audacious overhead kick that sailed just over the bar as Hahndorf began to build up their game.

The Titans had a period of strong possession and should have scored but for some scrambling and desperate defence from the Magpies. Then the hosts did score but the goal was rightfully adjudged to have been from an offside position. The Magpies took advantage immediately and forced a corner from their next attack. Lawler drove the corner into the near post and Craig used his vast experience to find the net with a cultured volley off his shin.

The Hahndorf team drew confidence from their lead and held the Titans at bay as the hosts sought to find an equaliser. A clearance from Craig soon had them on the back foot when Guest latched onto the ball, the tall striker escaping the defence to slot the ball past a stranded Titan ‘keeper for a 2-0 lead.

The Magpies rounded off their impressive half with a third goal, a tidy piece of play where Hahndorf made the most of their possession, getting the ball wide to Lawler and onto Konstantinoff. The hard running forward worked his trickery to create space and sent in a fine cross which Guest headed into the corner of the net.

The Titans went on the attack immediately from the restart but the Magpies were prepared for the onslaught. Smith, Lindon and Hambrook harried the midfield while the Hahndorf defence were alert to the Titan threats. Several chances fell the Titans way but they failed to find the target until a series of corners unsettled the Magpies and the home side scored with a header.

With thirty minutes remaining, the Titans redoubled their efforts on goal but the Magpies rallied to put up a stern resistance. Numerous times the Titans found the path to goal blocked or the wind taking the ball over the byline from over hit passes. Konstantinoff worked tirelessly in the forward line to keep the Titans under pressure and Brad Coleman entered the match to give Guest a well-earned rest.

Hahndorf battled for every ball and the frustration grew for the Titans, the Magpies all fighting to keep their two-goal margin. The Hahndorf defensive structure held firm to the end and the final whistle signalled a great victory compiled from excellent performances all over the park. However, Man of the Match honours went to Jesse Konstantinoff, the striker setting up one goal and his work rate highly industrious all match.

Next week the Magpies return to the Pine Avenue Arena to tackle Adelaide Budapest while the Super Cs have the long road trip to One Tree Hill.

Round 9: MA Hawks V Hahndorf

MA Hawks V Hahndorf

The 9th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer Association saw a gallant effort by the depleted Hahndorf outfit against title contenders MA Hawks, the visitors conceding a late goal in the 2-1 defeat.

The Hahndorf Magpies were forced to test the depth of the club due to injuries, absences and sickness, giving five players a chance to step up a grade after playing in the Reserves the previous week. The new draftees stepped seamlessly into the Hahndorf structure and the team wasted no time in getting stuck into the MA Hawks, the two sides having some titanic tussles in the past.

Hahndorf started well and may have caught the hosts off their guard, forwards Jordan Webber, Kieran Guest and Jesse Konstantinoff keen to explore the forward areas of the wide pitch. Dan Hermel, Steve Ness and Rupert “Crusher” Lindon battled for the spoils of midfield as the two sides strove for ascendancy.

Early chances fell to Webber, twice the vigorous striker pierced the Hawks defence but was unable to beat the Hawks ‘keeper in the one-on-one situations. However, Hahndorf set the game alight with the opening score soon after, Konstantinoff passing to Hermel and the sprightly winger surprising the hosts with a thunderous goal from a wide position.

The Hawks responded to the deficit with a series of attacks, keeping Scott Schubert, Matt Norris, Michael Lewington and Ash Parr on the defensive. A good chance fell to the Hawks but the crossbar came to Hahndorf’s rescue and a valiant block stopped a further goal-bound shot.

Ness and Hermel were instrumental in the middle of the park; the latter providing the link between the defence and forward lines while Ness disrupted the Hawks’ midfield play. The match had developed into an even affair, when ten minutes from half time the Magpies conceded a penalty, Norris very unlucky to clip the Hawks’ forward as they chased a ball into the penalty area.

Hahndorf ‘keeper Mark McGrath made a good attempt to stop the penalty but it was well placed in the corner to bring up the equaliser. The MA Hawks tried to capitalise on their good fortune with a series of attacks just on half time and almost scored from a late corner but Parr was at the back post to firmly clear for the Magpies.

The second stanza began with sweeping rain to add some slipperiness to the very firm pitch, causing the ball to skid through in addition to the high bounce. Both teams had their opportunities in the early exchanges but neither side could find the target. Lindon contributed some timely tackles and the Hahndorf rearguard was vigilant to the Hawks threat. With his height, Guest remained a target man up front and caused concern in the Hawks defence. Hermel continued to provide highlights with his efforts, a long shot going over the bar while another passed wide of goal.

Injury forced Webber from the ground and brought speedster Kayne Stubing into the match. The Hawks threatened to break open the match but some resolute defending, combined with the woodwork, kept the score at parity and frustrated the home side.

Hahndorf were also to feel aggrieved when Stubing popped up to smash a fierce volley toward goal but the Hawks custodian beat the ball away with a fine save. The Magpies kept the ball in the danger zone but the pressure was relieved before Hahndorf could make a shot count.

The Hawks hit back with a good build up which resulted in them hitting the crossbar for a third time. Stubing also had another great opportunity, bursting through on goal and going past the ‘keeper but carrying the ball too wide to get an effective shot away. The action went end to end with both teams desperate in defence and creating some fine chances, however neither side could land a decisive blow.

A sweeping move saw McGrath distribute to Schubert and he played a fine ball to Stubing out wide. The winger arrowed his pass to a contest at the far post where a defensive header led to a corner for the Magpies. Ness rose well for the corner but placed his header over the crossbar. With ten minutes remaining, the Hawks responded in attack but were denied by McGrath. However he was powerless to stop the Hawks scoring at the front post from a corner seconds later, the goal a cruel blow to the travelling Magpies.

Hahndorf did their best to even the score, a period of sustained pressure pushing the Hawks defence with some long throws into the box. A knockdown by Guest found Hermel and he shot with venom, but the ball passed wide of goal with what was Hahndorf’s last attack.

It was a disappointing loss but one tempered with some outstanding performances, Steve Ness taking Man of the Match honours with Dan Hermel and Kieran Guest close behind with their efforts. It was a solid performance by the Magpies, the reshuffled side giving some players the opportunity to step up and show their versatility.


Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves suffered a 4-0 loss against the MA Hawks, the Magpies unable to recover from a three goal second half by the hosts.

From the outset the Hahndorf team found themselves under attack as the Hawks pushed forward with a helpful wind at their backs. With no regular ‘keeper to call on, Angus Hambrook volunteered for the role and found that the busy position was excellent in warding off the cold. Veteran Andy Craig, Ben “Beninho” Wells, Dan Mardle and Kyle Eglinton had their hands full quelling the Hawks attacks as the home side laid siege to the Hahndorf goal for the opening twenty minutes of the match.

Shaun Smith, Tom Stevens, Tim Staniford and Nat Stewart managed to get the Hahndorf midfield going with some promising moves to bring forwards John Lawler and Chris Hyde into the match. Just when it seemed that the Magpies had weathered the worst of the Hawks attacking drive, they conceded a free just outside the penalty area and a well-struck kick curled into the far post to break the deadlock.

The Magpies continued to battle and found space out wide in which to exploit the Hawks. Hahndorf struggled to gain momentum but forced the Hawks back on several occasions. Lawler put in a fine cross for Hyde but his near post header flashed wide of the mark.

In the second half, Hahndorf brought on Cameron Savage and Dave Kinlough for their Reserves debut and the Magpies looked to get back into the match with a number of chances but these failed to deliver any goals. The Hawks responded with a second goal fifteen minutes into the half and then they added a third five minutes later.

Alex “Shinboner” Robson entered the fray and the Magpies battled hard to put a score on the board. Kinlough and Hyde had opportunities but the Hawks defence held firm. Savage, Smith and Staniford were industrious as the Magpies pushed further into the Hawks territory.

A penalty to the Hawks gave Hambrook a highlight, brilliantly diving left to deny the solidly struck ball a path to goal and chalking up a small victory for the stand in ‘keeper. However, the Hawks struck a fourth goal, a neat free finding the corner before time was called on the game.

Despite the loss, Hahndorf team did experiment with a couple of formations and the match gave some Super Cs players the chance to step up a level. There were many solid contributions across the park including Smith, Eglinton, Stevens and an outstanding effort by Hambrook, stepping into the ‘keepers role at the last minute.

Super Cs
With the Club player stocks ravaged by injury, the Super Cs could only manage to field ten players against Strathalbyn, the Magpies going down 1-4 with Tony Carter scoring the only goal for the home team.

Next week Hahndorf begin the second half of the season with a visit to the Adelaide Titans at Henley Beach, while the Super Cs are also away to McLaren District.