2012 Round 4: Hahndorf Magpies V Modbury Jets

Hahndorf Magpies V Modbury Jets

Hahndorf were again left with the bitter taste of defeat after the visiting Modbury Jets blitzed the Magpies with early scores on their way to six unanswered goals.

Under grey skies, the 4th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd division started badly for the hosting Magpies, with defenders Steve Ness, Michael Lewington, Jack Farrimond and Ash Parr under pressure from the organised Jets. Goalkeeper Andy Jones could do little to prevent the opening goal that arrived in the first five minutes of play, a Hahndorf own goal derived from a major deflection.

The visitors pressed forward and circumvented the Magpies midfield of Sam Wood, Tim Prince, James Anderson and Tom Holland. Ness found himself outnumbered on the wing and a quick pass made it two nil as a swooping Jets' forward scooped the ball past Jones. Hahndorf’s awful start was compounded soon after when a Jets' player, doing his best Ashley Young impersonation, was awarded a very dubious penalty and it was duly converted.

The Magpies battled to get back into the match with Matt Norris and Kayne Stubing making their presence felt in the attacking third, however meaningful shots were few and far between. The Magpies midfield and defence were stretched all over the park by the Jets' quick movement on and off the ball and despite some courageous defence by Lewington, the visitors added a further two goals before the end of the half.

Hahndorf made a better showing in the match after the break, likely due to some stimulating half time chat by the coaching staff and picked up their game. Norris remained a target man in the forward line and won the majority of the aerial duels he contested. Holland, Prince and Wood battled hard to wrestle possession from the Jets, however Hahndorf’s passing often let them down and at times they gave the ball away cheaply.

The Magpies persisted however and created some good chances, one when Norris sent a well-weighted ball through to Stubing but the usually reliable forward could only produce a tame shot that did not test the ‘keeper. The Jets responded with a period of neat play but could not break the Magpies defence and the match went end to end with neither team able to create a clear chance.

A corner to the Magpies did not bring a much desired goal and a quick break by the Jets caught the hosts napping, a run down the wing drew the defence and a neat pass was rolled across the goal for an easy tap in at the far post for the visitor’s sixth score.

Hahndorf made some substitutions, bringing on Jesse Konstantinoff and Kane Oppelaar as the Magpies endeavoured to get on the scoreboard. A few attacks drew promise but the Jets were well organised to repel the forays forward. Konstantinoff made some good progress but found his path to goal strewn with defenders and Holland created space for an opportunistic shot but the ball passed just over the bar.

The result magnified the gulf between the two teams and the Magpies will have to lift their game considerably to progress up the table. Their task has not been made any easier with a few key defenders absent or on the injury list. Hahndorf's best on ground was Matt Norris, who battled hard all day with Michael Lewington and Tom Holland with solid performances.


Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves suffered their first defeat of the season when they failed to hold on to a lead and were overwhelmed in the later stages of the match to go down 2-4 in a hard fought contest.

Hahndorf began with their experienced pair of strikers, Chris Hyde and Jesse Konstantinoff leading from the front with a strong midfield containing Lee Jennings, Kyle Eglinton and the Oppelaar brothers, Kane and Lloyd. However it was the defensive unit that were busy in the opening exchanges, Tim Staniford, Scott Breaker, Kierran Guest and veteran Andy Craig providing cover for goalkeeper Vaughan Barratt.

Hahndorf slowly emerged from their tardy start and found the flanks a fertile ground to go on the offensive. It was almost the first genuine attack that brought the opening goal for the Magpies, the Oppelaar brothers combining to deliver a fine cross for Konstantinoff to bury a firm header inside the front post. The good start of the Magpies was tempered soon after when an injury befell Hyde and he was replaced by Angus “House” Hambrook.

Hahndorf continued to exploit the wings with K Oppelaar being particularly productive and the Magpies should have made more of their chances. The Jets hit back with a series of corners and eventually after a number of opportunities they equalised late in the half, a corner hitting the back of the Jets player and looping in.

Hahndorf had the chance to retake the lead almost immediately after K Oppelaar swung in a lovely corner kick but Craig misdirected his header wide of the beckoning goal.

The second half saw a battle for the midfield in which the visitors began to have a greater share of possession. Hahndorf brought on Ben “Beninho” Wells with thirty minutes remaining to partner with Hambrook up front. After a period of pressure from the Jets, the Magpies advanced through L Oppelaar when he put the makeshift forward combination into a good position. A slick Hambrook pass gifted Wells a one-on-one with the ‘keeper and using his Xbox FIFA 12 experience, Wells lifted a short lob over the advancing custodian for a 2-1 score.

The lead was brief however and a tidy move by the Jets opened up the middle of the park and a well-placed shot found the bottom corner of the net. The visitors continued to press Hahndorf and soon had the lead with a powerful shot bursting through Barratt’s hands into goal.

Hahndorf tried to respond in the dying minutes but could not get a clear shot on target and then the Jets sealed the match with a fourth goal tap in at the back post. The result was disappointing for the Magpies and shows that despite their good start to the season, they have a few challenges to solve if they are to keep up with the frontrunners. the Magpies best on the day was the outstanding Lloyd Oppelaar, with good support from Kane Oppelaar and Scott Breaker.

Super Cs
The Super Cs dominated large sections of their match against the Modbury Jets, but could not make it count on the scoreboard, going down 1-4 in an engaging battle. After giving the Jets a one goal lead, the Magpies levelled just after half time with a fine finish by Dave Kinlough, latching onto Dan Mardle’s centring cross. However the Jets capitalised on some defensive lapses to put in a further three goals to take the win.

Next week is the first round of the Cup with the First team having a difficult tie when they host Premier division side, the Adelaide Wanderers on Saturday at the Pine Avenue Arena. The Reserves also face a stiff challenge when they travel to Royal Park on Sunday to take on 2nd division side, the Western Strikers.

2012 Round 3: Croydon Cougars V Hahndorf Magpies

Croydon Cougars V Hahndorf Magpies

Hahndorf squandered an opportunity for a good result against the Croydon Cougars, losing concentration in the final ten minutes to concede late goals in a high scoring 6-3 encounter.

The 3rd round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd division clash between the Cougars and the Magpies took place at Findon on a rough, uneven pitch in contrast to the splendid autumn weather. The visitors went into the game with a similar formation to the previous week, with Kierran Guest in goal behind a defensive line containing Steve Ness, Jack Farrimond, Todd Newman and Lloyd Oppelaar.

Tim Prince and Michael Lewington anchored the central midfield while Kane Oppelaar and Sam Wood patrolled the flanks with Hahndorf’s attack led by Matt Norris and Tom Holland. The Magpies started on the front foot but suffered an early setback when Newman sustained an injury, forcing the defence to be reshuffled and bringing on James Anderson as a replacement.

The Cougars pressed forward with intent and drew Guest into a couple of crucial saves, one a tip over the bar from a close range header and then doing brilliantly in a one-on-one situation. Holland answered back for the visitors, latching onto a through ball but, after beating the ‘keeper to the ball, he lobbed his shot wide of goal. The match settled and Hahndorf held some quality possession with L Oppelaar, Holland, Prince and Anderson stringing a fine series of passes together.

It was then a surprise when, somewhat against the run of play, the Cougars scored, an innocuous shot eluding Guest and squeezing under him for the opening goal. With the lead, the Cougars took to the match with more purpose and forced Hahndorf onto the back foot with a period of offensive pressure.

Norris rallied forward for the Magpies and a fine charging run earned Hahndorf a corner. Holland drilled the set piece into the heart of the Cougar’s goalmouth and amid the panicked defenders, Norris poked the ball into the net to restore parity. Hahndorf almost took the lead soon after when the vagaries of the pitch caused a Cougars defender to stumble and fall over the ball and Norris swept in to pass to K Oppelaar. The sharp midfielder unleashed a powerful, swerving drive that had the Cougars’ ‘keeper at full stretch to tip the ball centimetres past the goalpost.

After the half time break, the hosts got off to the best possible start, finding a sharp through ball that the Cougars’ forward pounced on and tucked past the Hahndorf ‘keeper. At 2-1 up the Cougars searched for more goals and sensing some confusion in the Hahndorf camp they added a third from a headed corner.

Believing they had a match winning lead the hosts relaxed a little and allowed the Magpies to claw their way into the match. Prince, Wood and Holland were beginning to control possession and after a steady period of pressure Norris made it 3-2 with a fine strike after a subtle lay off by Lewington.

Hahndorf increased their work rate and set about finding the equaliser, the Magpies finding larger spaces in the midfield. Holland made a dashing run down the flank before a clever backheel set Ness up and he delivered a pinpoint cross to Norris. The big forward made no mistake to plant his powerful header past a despairing ‘keeper for his and Hahndorf’s third goal.

With ten minutes to play, the match kicked up a gear as the Magpies tried to maintain their momentum and grab the lead. A foray forward almost brought reward but L Oppelaar blasted his shot over the crossbar. The Cougars responded and took advantage of some lax marking to put away a goal to make it 4-3. Buoyed by the restoration of their lead, the home side put the Hahndorf defence under intense scrutiny and within minutes had scrambled home a fifth goal.

Further misery befell the Magpies when an errant clearance went to a Cougar forward and he slotted another goal just minutes from the final whistle. The Magpies will feel frustrated that again they let valuable points escape their grasp after working hard to get the match back onto an even keel and no doubt the coaching staff will be addressing their defence woes before next week. Best for Hahndorf on the day was Matt Norris, his outstanding performance including all three goals for the Magpies. Tom Holland and Sam Wood also put in fine efforts with solid games from Prince and Anderson.


Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves fought out a highly contested draw with the Cougars, neither side able to break through the opposition defence over the course of the match.

In the opening exchanges, the Magpies took a while to get used to the bounce and run of the ground, allowing the Cougars to put pressure on defenders Tim Staniford, Ash Parr, Andy Craig and Scott Breaker. The defence held firm and Magpies ‘keeper Vaughan Barratt had few genuine shots to contend with. The Hahndorf midfield began to make their presence felt with James Anderson, Andy Jones, Angus “House” Hambrook and Jordan Webber working their way into the match.

The Cougars however continued to pressure Hahndorf and the home side almost scored but Barratt tipped a searing shot over the bar to deny the goal. Hahndorf was doing well in repelling the forward drive of the hosts with Breaker in outstanding form and ably supported by his defensive compatriots

Hahndorf created a few scoring chances through Chris Hyde and Jesse Konstantinoff but Hahndorf failed to really test the Cougars custodian in the opening half. The Magpies best opportunity arrived after Konstantinoff earned a free just outside the penalty area. Craig almost caught the Cougars napping with a quick shot but a lone defender had drifted back head the ball away to safety.

In the second half, Hahndorf increased their presence in the midfield and the match was largely played between the two penalty areas, with neither team able to get a clear shot on goal. Hahndorf coach, Mark McGrath began a series of substitutions over the final thirty minutes, bringing on Kyle Eglinton, Ben “Beninho” Wells and Gary Ledson to sustain the intensity, as players started to tire.

A free to Hahndorf provided a good chance to score and Hyde struck a fine curling shot but the Cougars’ ‘keeper made an equally fine save to deny a score. The play went end to end with both teams trying to get the vital goal that would probably settle the match. The Cougars got a great chance with a free right on the edge of the penalty spot but the Magpies wall did its job and the effort cannoned off the wall and away from goal.

A final flurry by the Cougars drew out a tremendous save by Barratt, beating away a well hit shot from an angle and the Magpies cleared the resultant corner to safety before the referee called the match to an end. It was a solid performance from the Magpie Reserves and keeps them in good shape on the league ladder. Best on the day was James Anderson, with great support from Scott Breaker and Vaughan Barratt.

Super Cs

The Super Cs kicked off the day at Findon with a disappointing 2-0 loss, a goal in each half giving the Cougars the win. Hahndorf struggled to find their rhythm on the uneven surface and poor control led to both sides giving up cheap possession throughout the match. Hahndorf had a great chance to equalise just after half time but blasted the shot over the bar from close in.

Next week Hahndorf returns home to the Pine Avenue Arena where all three teams will be taking on the Modbury Jets.

2012 Round 2: Adelaide Monarchs V Hahndorf Magpies

Adelaide Monarchs V Hahndorf Magpies

On a wet Saturday at Grange, Hahndorf and the Monarchs engaged in a see-sawing goal feast before a late strike by the home side gave them the points in a 5-4 thriller.

A constant drizzle made the wide, flat surface of the ground slick from the opening whistle and both teams took time to adjust to the slippery conditions. Hahndorf lined up with an attacking, fast-paced front line through Kayne Stubing and Matt Norris, supported by the midfield quartet of Scott Graham, Sam Wood, Luke Guest and Tom Holland.

Lloyd Oppelaar, Michael Lewington, Captain Jack Farrimond and Steve Ness patrolled the defensive lines in front of goalkeeper Kierran Guest. A couple early chances to Hahndorf got them off to a positive start, but unfortunately for the Magpies, they found themselves a goal down within ten minutes due to a speculative shot against the run of play.

Hahndorf set about restoring parity and a period of attacking pressure gained a corner. Holland played a sharp one-two with Norris before pinpointing a cross to Lewington on the far post. The big central defender made no mistake with his firm header, driving the ball into the net.

At 1-1,the match settled into a midfield battle with both Monarchs and Hahndorf creating a few chances but neither goalkeeper was unduly challenged, despite shots sliding through on goal. The Magpies slowly began the shade possession and a flowing move involving Lewington, LGuest and Holland found Norrris who had his shot blocked. The ball fell to Wood and he blasted a shot on target but a great save by the Monarch’s ‘keeper tipped it over the crossbar.

Just when it looked as if Hahndorf were in the ascendancy, the Monarchs retook the lead from a corner, a handling error in the slick conditions saw the ball squirm past the Hahndorf ‘keeper. The Magpies countered with neat set of passes down the spacious wing but the Monarchs had numbers in defence and Hahndorf could not get a clear shot on target.

Although Hahndorf seemed to be playing the better football, the Monarchs were looking to make every opportunity count. A quick break and through ball by the home side led them into the half time with their lead extended, their forward picking out a corner of the goal with only the exposed Magpie ‘keeper to beat.

Upon the restart, Hahndorf looked to bounce back into contention and an early chance showed the Magpies intent. The Monarchs too looked to add to their score but K. Guest was in good position to hold the efforts. Hahndorf persisted with their attacking frame of mind and were rewarded with a penalty. Norris stepped up to drive a firm shot that the Monarchs’ ‘keeper did well to reach but he could not keep the ball from bursting through his hands.

Hahndorf tried to maintain momentum, L.Guest finding space to centre for Graham but his shot was blocked and the follow up effort sail just over the Monarchs’ goal. The home side then tried their luck from distance, the effort catching Hahndorf out and the ball sailed over the Magpie ‘keeper and into the net to make the score 4-2 to the hosts.

The Magpies made a couple of substitutions, bringing on James Anderson and Kane Oppelaar to freshen up the midfield and get themselves back into the match. The action did not let up with both sides keen to add to the goal tally. Hahndorf made the score 4-3 with a well executed free kick, Holland driving a low shot past the defensive wall and under the diving ‘keeper.

The visitors picked up the pace and soon had levelled the match with a classy left footed drive from Anderson, the young recruit latching onto a throw-in and burying the ball from distance in the top corner. A revitalised Hahndorf team pushed hard for the winner in the remaining minutes, bringing Jesse Konstantinoff on to bolster the attacking stock.

K.Oppelaar almost made a memorable debut with a searing shot that forced the Monarchs’ ‘keeper to push the ball over the bar. The Magpies wasted the corner opportunity and the Monarchs went on the attack to also gain a corner. Hahndorf cleared the attack and pushed forward but could not get a good shot away on goal. With time running out, a sloppy back pass by the Magpies was intercepted by the Monarchs forward and he nipped past the goalkeeper to roll the ball into an empty net.

The end result was a bitter one for the visiting Magpies who had done enough for a least a draw, only to throw the points away in the final minutes. Best on the day was Tom Holland, who was outstanding all match closely followed by excellent games by Matt Norris and Sam Wood.

Reserves

After setting the match up in the first forty-five minutes, the Hahndorf Reserves endured a mid-match Monarchs revival before running out comfortable 2-5 winners.

The visiting Hahndorf team got off to a bright start under threatening skies, forwards Todd Newman and Jesse Konstantinoff sharp in the opening exchanges. Midfielders Jordan Webber, Lee Jennings and Kane Oppelaar were quick to exploit the tardy Monarch approach and the Magpies took the opening goal within five minutes of play.

Good work through the middle of the park set Konstantinoff in space on the edge of the penalty area and his pass found Webber clear on goal and the industrious Magpie made no mistake from close in. Five minutes later Hahndorf had doubled their lead, pouncing on some indifferent Monarchs play to deliver the ball to Newman and he scored with aplomb.

The Monarchs took stock of their poor start and fought to get back into the match, the Hahndorf defence of Scott Breaker, Tim Staniford, Andy Craig and Kyle Eglinton forced to counter some attacking moves and ‘keeper Vaughan Barratt made a few timely saves. Andy Jones patrolled the deep midfield and sought to cut out the origin of the Monarchs moves, leading to an engaging battle that lasted the entire match.

Oppelaar was in fine form down the flanks, exchanging play with Jennings and Webber to drive the Hahndorf attack. Newman and Konstantinoff were a constant threat and the Monarchs ‘keeper did well on several occasions to deny the pair. The spots of rain developed into a steady drizzle to dampen the spectators but not the drive of the Magpies and they added their third goal just before the break. Excellent work by Oppelaar culminated in a flighted ball to Newman and he comfortably put away the headed goal.

In the second stanza, the Magpies were keen to add to the score but despite some fine attacking moves, Hahndorf found the Monarchs defence in a more determined mood. Ash Parr made an entry into the game along with Ben “Beninho” Wells and the pair looked to make an impact immediately.

However it was the Monarchs who seized the initiative, capitalising on a couple of errors on the greasy surface and they scored two goals in ten minutes to get back into the match. Hahndorf answered with renewed vigour and a period of sustained pressure earned a penalty. However unusually, Konstantinoff hit the ball high and it cannoned off the crossbar and the rebound went wide. The Monarchs threw players into the forward line looking to overwhelm the Magpies but the visitors stood firm against the onslaught.

With fifteen minutes remaining, Hahndorf gained some breathing space when Breaker found space and showed his goal of last week was no fluke with a superb drive that fairly flew into the top corner of the net. The 2-4 score-line knocked the wind out of the sails of the Monarchs and Hahndorf regained control as the match started to wind down. With minutes left in the match, Parr added icing to the score with a searing drive from the edge of the box to give Hahndorf the 2-5 win.

It was a good, solid performance by all the Hahndorf players across the park, but Kane Oppelaar took the man of the match accolades with a stellar match. Notable also were Andy Jones and Andy Craig in cementing the Magpie defence.

Super Cs

The Super Cs started the days proceedings with their first win of the season, a resounding 4-1 win over the Monarchs’ Cs.
With the Monarchs not getting their full side out until twenty minutes into the match, it was somewhat of a surprise that they went into half time with a 1-0 lead. Multiple missed opportunities cost the Magpies but they remedied the situation with four unanswered goals. Ben Gordon-Edwards netted two goals with fine finishes, while Scott Schubert scored from the edge on the penalty area and young Lucas Podolski added a great fourth to put the result beyond doubt.

Next week the Hahndorf contingent travels to Findon to take on Adelaide Cougars in an important clash for all three teams.

2012 Round 1: Hahndorf Magpies V Adelaide Titans

The Hahndorf Magpies began the 2012 season in an inauspicious fashion, allowing the visiting Adelaide Titans to dictate large passages of play in a disappointing 1-5 loss.

With an encouraging pre-season behind them, Hahndorf were confident heading into the first round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd Division and fielded an emerging combination featuring four debutants. Kierran Guest took up the goal keeping duties with Steven Ness, Michael Lewington, Luke Guest and Lloyd Oppelaar forming the defensive line.

The Titans took the match up to the Magpies and made their intentions clear with some early threatening moves. The Hahndorf midfield of Scott Graham, James Anderson, Tom Holland and Jack Farrimond battled hard to contain the visitors as they sought to break through to the Magpies defence. Kayne Stubing and Matt Norris provided the firepower in the Magpies forward line, with both players looking sharp.

The opening goal fell to the visitors, arriving via a blistering drive from a well executed corner that found the inside post of the Hahndorf goal. The home team tried to hit back but the Titans’ goalkeeper was never really tested as Hahndorf maintained some forward possession without producing a clear chance. The Titans pressed forward and earned a corner. Playing another set piece, the visitors caught Hahndorf napping and a quick centring pass found an unmarked Titan player and he slotted the ball home. Soon after, an unwell Anderson had to leave the pitch and the Magpies replaced him with Sam Wood

Hahndorf rallied before the half time break and Stubing had several chances after some quick passing from the Hahndorf midfield put him in on goal but he struck his shots wide of the mark. Soon after, the lively forward had his best chance as he stole past the defence to almost latch onto a lazy pass but the Titans’ ‘keeper did enough to prevent Stubing from forcing the ball past him.

In the second half the Hahndorf team set out with renewed vigour, L.Guest, Ness and Oppelaar were forceful in defence while Wood and Graham wrestled back some midfield control. Stubing remained the focal point in attack and drew the Titans’ goalkeeper into a sharp diving save after Graham found the forward with a fine diagonal ball.

Hahndorf’s persistence was rewarded when Lewington and L.Guest forced a turnover and combined to find Norris. The club stalwart fed Stubing with a clever ball and he turned his marker before nipping the ball past the ‘keeper and tapping into the vacant net. The Magpies continued their positive play, with K.Guest clearing to Oppelaar who sent the ball through to Wood. Stubing latched onto Wood’s pass and cut the ball back from the wing for L.Guest to lash at goal but the shot was deflected to safety by a Titans defender.

The Titans readjusted and went out to a 3-1 lead when Hahndorf lost the ball in midfield and a quick pass found a Titan forward in space and he blasted the ball past an exposed K.Guest. The midfield became a highly contested region and several willing tackles escalated in intensity before a flurry of yellow cards prevented the match from boiling over. Hahndorf was forced to make a substitution when Farrimond was injured after his ill-timed challenge resulted in a nasty clash and he was replaced by debutant Lee Jennings.

Hahndorf tried to work back into the match but made some simple errors that put them under pressure, L.Guest called upon to rescue the Magpies with a saving tackle after the home team had given the ball away cheaply. The Titans were not to be denied however and a long ball into the Hahndorf defence was only half cleared and the Titans forced in their fourth goal.

The visitors added a fifth and final goal soon after, a smart turn eluding the Magpie defender and the Titan forward drew K.Guest out, before a neat pass left a tap in to seal the match. In the remaining minutes Hahndorf tried to restore some balance to the score when Holland found Stubing with a great cross but the headed shot flew wide of the post.

The result was not the way the Hahndorf Magpies wanted to begin the season, but with the team still finding the right mix of players, the Magpies will be looking to bounce straight back with a positive result next week. Best on the day was Sam Wood, who had a great game in midfield with Lloyd Oppelaar and Steve Ness also having fine contributions.

Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves and Adelaide Titans were engaged in a tight contest throughout the day, with the Magpies outlasting the visitors to take the three points in a 2-1 win.

Hahndorf lined up with an experienced back line containing Tim Staniford, Scott Breaker, Ash Parr and Andy Craig, with Vaughan Barratt between the sticks for the Magpies. The home team began brightly, bringing midfielders Kyle Eglinton, Ben “Beninho” Wells, Lee Jennings and Angus “House” Hambrook quickly into the game with forwards Jesse Konstantinoff and Jordan Webber keen to make their mark on the scoreboard.

A fairly even opening twenty minutes saw both sides trying to assert themselves in the match, punctuated by a couple of half chances that neither team could convert.

The Magpies began to shade possession, with the majority of play in the midfield cauldron. Jennings and Hambrook linked up with Konstantinoff and Webber and the Magpies had a few good opportunities to open the scoring. Hahndorf moved the ball quickly through the middle of the park before a ranging Hambook pinpointed a diagonal ball to Konstantinoff. Bearing in on goal his shot was blocked and the ball spilled to Webber, who made no mistake and drove the ball into goal from ten metres.

The Titans responded, going close with some sharp efforts but Barratt was in great position to quell the threats and when a shot did get past him the crossbar came to the Magpies aid.

The Magpies were expecting the Titans to come at them after half time and the visitors did not disappoint, equalising soon after the restart when a well-taken corner was deflected twice on its way into the Hahndorf net. The goal emboldened the visitors but Hahndorf stood fast to dilute the Titans attack, Staniford and Parr in outstanding form against their immediate opponents.

Hahndorf pressed forward through Eglington and Webber and forced the Titans into some hasty clearances. Continued pressure opened up the pitch and a cross-field pass found Breaker in acres of space twenty-five metres from goal. Controlling the ball, Breaker struck a curling shot with his left foot to leave the Titans’ ‘keeper grasping at air as the ball went over him and snuck in the top corner, the stunning strike giving Hahndorf a 2-1 lead.

The Titans threw themselves into attack to restore parity but the Hahndorf defensive line remained disciplined and resolute to give the visitors few good scoring opportunities. Parr was outstanding in turning defence into attack either through his piercing long passes to the Hahndorf flanks or on a weaving run past several inept Titan challenges.

Time eventually ran out for the visitors as the Magpies strong defensive resolve held true to the final whistle. Best on the day was Ash Parr with an excellent display, ably backed up by the solid defence of Tim Staniford and Vaughan Barratt.

Super Cs
An entertaining first half saw the Hahndorf Super Cs take the lead, courtesy of Nat Stewart, who slotted in from close range after the Titan’s goalkeeper failed to deal with a long clearance. The Magpies should have added a second after a dazzling run by Matt Filber left a trail of Titans in his wake before neatly squaring the ball for James Stratfold, but he scooped his shot wide of the beckoning goal.

The Titans found the second half a better proposition and scored with alarming regularity as the Magpies midfield ruptured and the opposition stretched the tiring defence to end the match with five goals to Hahndorf’s one.

Next week all three Hahndorf teams travel to Grange to meet long time rivals, the Adelaide Monarchs.

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.