2013 Round 15: Hahndorf Magpies V Adelaide University

A strong finish by Hahndorf was not enough to prevent Adelaide University taking the points in a high scoring encounter at Pine Avenue.

As the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 3rd Division season moves toward its conclusion, the few remaining matches assume greater gravitas with four points separating five teams. Hahndorf were looking to close the gap on their opponents but Adelaide University had designs of their own.

The visitors got off to a brisk start and put Hamish Vickers, Stuart “El Presidente” Thomas, Matt Filmer and Sam “the Swiss Maestro” Putallaz under pressure in the initial exchanges. A couple of early saves by Hahndorf ‘keeper Jarrod Kennedy did not prepare him for the opening strike by University. An incisive move down the wing drew defenders in and a smart cutback allowed Adelaide to slot the ball away from a classic play after five minutes.

The Magpies matched the quick tempo was through the midfield endeavours of David Grant, Sol Scopazzi, Stephen Ness and JK Thomas while Ben Stewart and Nathan Roennfeldt kept the University defence honest. Several good moves put Hahndorf within striking range but the visiting goalkeeper had the angles covered.

Adelaide were not content to sit on their laurels and doubled their lead after twenty-five minutes, again a text book cutback to the penalty spot slicing open the Magpie defence. The momentum looked to be on University’s side and they could have added more however Hahndorf lifted their game. Kennedy lead with a fine save, holding a fierce shot across his goal like he was plucking an apple from a tree.

Stewart was a constant threat for the Magpies and several strong runs showed his intent. A great chance opened for him and he hit a fine volley but an equally fine save was made by the Adelaide ‘keeper. Nevertheless, Hahndorf persisted in attack and were rewarded just before half time.

Pressuring the University defence during a good period of play, the Magpies forced the ball across the penalty area and Vickers, arriving with impeccable timing, lashed a volley into the net to the loud approval of the local crowd.

After the break the teams were engaged in an arm wrestle with neither really creating many chances. However, that changed when a lofted ball was brought under good control by Adelaide and they forced their way into the area to square the ball and it was driven into goal.

Worse was to follow for Hahndorf as minutes later the visitors made it 4-1 when they cut through the defence with impunity and slotted the ball past the exposed Kennedy. Hahndorf tried to rally but it was University that had the better opportunities and they put another good effort over the crossbar.

The Magpies dug deep and established a hold in the Adelaide half, Grant, Ness, Scopazzi and Stewart combining. Putallaz eluded an opponent with an exquisite turn before sending in a tantalising cross but Stewart just failed to get a boot on the ball.

Simon Gale entered the match as Hahndorf were building their momentum. Stewart battled his way to the by-line and his cross bypassed all apart from Ness who drilled a goal-bound shot from just inside the penalty area. However the Adelaide ’keeper, who despite resembling an oversized jockey in his gaudy strip and cap, made a tremendous diving save to emphasise his very good form.

Nonetheless, persistence paid off for the Magpies when Grant picked out Gale with a diagonal ball and he drove a fierce shot onto the goal upright. Hahndorf gathered the rebound with Ness and Stewart combining to force the ball into the net, Stewart with the important last touch.

At 4-2 the Magpies felt they were back in the match and they were looking better than Adelaide as the match progressed. A University attack was foiled by a terrific Kennedy save and then the home team went on the offensive with a flowing move involving Roennfeldt, Ness and Putallaz.

A free on the edge of the area gave Putallaz the chance to lash a curling shot at goal but the Adelaide ‘keeper made a fine finger tip save to flick the ball over the bar. Grant drove in the resultant corner, the flight deceiving most to reach Vickers at the back post and the talented teenager squeezed between two defenders to stab the ball home.

The score was 4-3 as Hahndorf charged home with a wet sail and the match ramped up to a furious pace for the final five minutes. University went narrowly wide a good effort and the Magpies replied through Gale, the forward breezing past several players before shooting over.

Vickers instigated an attack, finding Gale with a precision pass and he pushed on to Putallaz. The Swiss Maestro held the ball wide before curling in a dangerous cross that just eluded the charging Vickers, the defender centimetres from his hat-trick and fairy tale finish for Hahndorf.

However it was not to be, and the final whistle ended the late rally by the Magpies. It was a terrific fight back by the home team but they left themselves too much to do after giving away a couple of cheap, early goals. Best on the day for Hahndorf was Ben Stewart who fought hard and drove the attack all day, narrowly getting the votes over Hamish Vickers who was brilliant in both defence and attack to score a brace.

Reserves
A resilient performance by the Hahndorf Reserves saw them fight to the final whistle against title-chasing Adelaide University, the points shared in a 1-1 draw.

The sixth-placed Magpie Reserves took on second spot and were not daunted by the visitors despite the sixteen point difference between the teams. It was expected that Uni would dominate possession and the early going showed this to be true. However Hahndorf utilised their defence well, James Stratfold, Brendan Kilpatrick, Graham Philips and Johannes Edler getting good support from Jason Mckenzie and Scott Schubert, the latter doing a tremendous amount of work in the first thirty minutes.

Adelaide had a couple of good opportunities to open the scoring but put their efforts over Blake Horton’s cross bar or wide of goal. The defence worked diligently to track the movement of the visiting players and prevented them from getting in behind the back line. Chris Hyde led the Hahndorf attack and linked up well with Sean Behan, Harvey Watson and Naite Hider, the senior marksman creating a clever dummy that almost put Hider through on goal.

However he did not have long to wait before a defence splitting pass from Schubert sent Hider on his way, the youngster beating two defenders before a heavy touch put the ball too close to the University goalkeeper. Adelaide was having the better of possession but their finishing was poor with Horton capably holding the shots that were on target.

Hahndorf continued to work hard to contain the visitors with Bob Edwards replacing an injured Magpie before half time, the experienced player shoring up the midfield.

After the break, Hahndorf made some good opportunities and a goal-bound header was smartly saved by the Adelaide custodian. The play settled somewhat although Hyde, Watson and Hider remained Hahndorf’s most potent threat. Edwards and Schubert began to garner a greater share of possession for the hosts and they made several promising attacks.

Adelaide University were still dangerous however and responded with a series of shots to the left of goal, repeatedly targeting the same stand of gums as if they were trying to dislodge a koala. A second substitution brought on Aaron Fiora and he made a great impact on the left side, linking with Watson, Hyde and Schubert.

A searching run by Watson was brought to an unceremonious end and gave Hahndorf a penalty. Watson took on the responsibility and struck the ball well but the Adelaide custodian went the right way and made a good, chest-high save.

University responded with a number of attacks and eventually forced the ball into the net after building pressure in the penalty area. With little time remaining the Magpies could have dropped their heads at the late blow but they endeavoured to find an equaliser despite the delaying tactics now employed by the University players.

A forceful, bullish run by Edwards took the ball into the penalty area and an ill-timed tackle brought him down to give the Magpies a second penalty and chance of redemption. Hyde stepped up and used all his experience to send the goalkeeper the wrong way and give Hahndorf a deserved equaliser, the goal coming in the final minute of play.

It was a tremendous team effort by the Magpies, defiantly keeping University to a single goal and then showing great spirit to lift for the equaliser. Many players put in exceptional efforts during the ninety minutes; however Scott Schubert was outstanding in a tireless display, his work rate and drive in midfield keeping Hahndorf in the match. Other terrific performances included Chris Hyde, Harvey Watson and Graham Philips.

The Magpies now have a week off due to the Cup quarter finals before travelling to meet the second placed Flinders University on the 24th of August.

2013 Round 6: Adelaide University V Hahndorf Magpies

Adelaide University and Hahndorf played out an engrossing scoreless draw on Saturday for the 6th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 3rd division.

Parking around the popular and salubrious surrounds of the Adelaide University playing fields proved to be a challenge for some players and officials, with the tardiness of the referee delaying the start of the first team match. However, play eventually began under overcast skies on the immaculate University pitch with Hahndorf fielding a settled defence containing Stuart Thomas, Matt Filmer, Sam Putallaz and Steve Ness in front of gloveman Jarrod Kennedy.

The University side were the first to threaten to score with a shot penetrating a crowd of players but passing wide of the target. David Grant replied for the Magpies with a stab over the bar after some good play by fellow midfielders Ben Stewart, Sol Scopazzi and Joe Thomas. The teams quickly settled into the match and the hosts enjoyed the majority of possession in the early going, putting together some nice moves but finding Hahndorf in determined mood and no real chances eventuated.

Scopazzi was industrious down the flank for the Magpies, linking up with forwards Nathan Roennfeldt and Chris Hyde to create concern in the University backline. A precise Grant pass put Scopazzi in behind his marker and he cut in towards goal but unfortunately blasted his opportunity over the crossbar.

Hahndorf continued to threaten to open the scoring as they kept the ball in the attacking third of the pitch. Grant crossed an enticing ball to Hyde and the experienced forward set up a shot that was blocked. The Magpies recovered the rebound and Hyde pounced on the quickly centred ball and tucked it in the net but he was adjudged to have been in an offside position.

A Putallaz free kick almost drew reward, the University ‘keeper parrying the shot and Scopazzi was close to lashing in the rebound before it was deflected for a corner. The visitors maintained their concentration as University mounted some attacks but Ness and Filmer were in a miserly mood and few shots made their way through to Kennedy.

The match developed into an arm wrestle with the respective midfields commanding the majority of play but neither team creating many genuine chances. A quick free released J Thomas and he streaked down the wing before aiming a cross into the 6-yard box, the delivery deceiving everyone and the ball cannoned off the crossbar to the relief of the home side.

The second half continued in much the same vein as the first, the forwards finding the path to goal a difficult one as the respective defences were at the top of their game, Magpies Filmer and Ness in particularly fine form to repel the University forays. Grant and Stewart continued to stoke the engineroom of midfield and they had some engaging battles with their counterparts as the play alternated between the teams.

Simon Gale entered to fray to try and conjure a goal for the Magpies, his speed and skill earning a free kick in a wide attacking position. Putallaz lifted the ball to a crowded 6-yard box and it drifted over all to graze the far post. The University side answered with a swift attacking move that drew a great save from Kennedy, reinforcing his outstanding form this season.

Hahndorf were finding their way into the University penalty area with regularity but could not find a final touch to put the ball into the net. Several throws into the danger area presented potential chances and neither team were able to take full control, the ball bouncing around and eventually being cleared by the defending side. Another chance presented itself but Roennfeldt’s flick-on header found the goalkeeper instead of a teammate.

The University side almost produced a stunning goal but the free kick passed outside the post and caught the side netting with Kennedy covering the corner of goal. The action went end to end as the two teams sought to break the deadlock. Ness produced a fine pass to Scopazzi and the Magpies worked the ball across the park with aplomb but again found the final pass a little lacking.

One of the best chances fell to the hosts as they caught the Magpies out with some slick work on the wing to cut the ball back to the top of the penalty area. However, despite the presence of two University players, they managed to panic each other and the poor shot went well wide.

Hahndorf brought on Mitch Miller and Nat Stewart with the match entering the final phases as both teams still battled for the winning strike. Ness and Filmer were valiant in defence to defy the hosts while some finely timed tackles underlined Putallaz’s Swiss heritage. The Magpies remained an attacking threat throughout the match and strove to find a score, Grant getting in the last chance of the match with a cheeky lob that failed to beat the University ‘keeper.

The draw was a fair result for both teams on a day that was largely dominated by the defensive talents on display. It was a very encouraging match by Hahndorf and all players battled hard with tremendous spirit and determination for the duration of the game. The best player on the day for Hahndorf was Matt Filmer, producing a fine defensive display, with Steve Ness, Sol Scopazzi and David Grant also having valid claims on the award.


Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves were competitive against the Adelaide University Reserves but a few errors were well punished, resulting in a 5-1 score line favouring the home side.

The Magpies started the match pairing Naite Hider and Mitch Miller up front with a midfield containing Harvey Watson, Gary Parsons, Luke Jones and Hamish Vickers. However, it was the defence that entertained the majority of the action in the opening fifteen minutes, James Stratfold, Brendan Kilpatrick, Johannes Edler and Tim Staniford doing well to quash the University attacks.

The Hahndorf defence was finding an outlet in Vickers and the skilful midfielder went on terrific run, beating several opponents before sliding a measured pass into the path of Hider. The youngster needed no second invitation and his angled run met the ball perfectly to drive it across the ‘keeper and into the net, the well taken goal giving the Magpies the lead.

The University side tried to answer immediately with a couple of chances going wide and the Magpies responded through Edler, his free kick scooting wide of the target as play went end to end. Out of the blue University equalised with goal of the day, a fine long-range effort that beat Hahndorf custodian Blake Horton to find the top corner.

Vickers was providing the Magpies best avenue to goal and another excellent run saw the ball cut back to Parsons but he fired his shot narrowly wide. Staniford and Kilpatrick were doing well in marshalling the Hahndorf defence but after repelling several attacks, a well-taken goal from a University cutback put the hosts in front. Soon after, University extended their lead, exploiting a missed Magpie tackle on the counter attack to make it 3-1 going into half time.

In the second half, Hahndorf continued to take the game to University and both teams had periods of domination without producing a result on the scoreboard. Aaron Fiora was brought on with twenty minutes remaining but it was University who struck. A penalty to the home side was duly converted before several wayward shots by Hahndorf attempted to redress the balance.

However, it was University who continued to find the goal, a speculative long-range strike eluding Horton to make it 5-1. With little to lose, the Magpies redoubled their efforts to score with Staniford in particular pressing forward at every opportunity and he was unlucky not to have found the net with a couple of shots. Watson had a great chance in the final minute of the match but the goal was not to be despite some fine approach play by Hahndorf.

Although the scoreboard indicated otherwise, the Magpies put in a solid account of themselves overall but a couple of lapses cost them dearly. There were several good performances across the park, however Hamish Vickers was outstanding on the day and took the Man of the Match plaudits for Hahndorf. Others of note included Naite Hider, Tim Staniford and Harvey Watson.

Next week Hahndorf face another stern tertiary examination when they host Flinders University at the Pine Avenue Arena.

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 6: Adelaide University V Hahndorf

Hahndorf handed harsh lesson by Uni

After a solid first half display, Hahndorf suffered a disappointing capitulation to second placed Adelaide University, collapsing to a 7-2 loss in their South Australian Amateur Soccer League Division 2 match.

A goal in the first minute gave Adelaide University the upper hand immediately, a deflected shot looping over Hahndorf goalkeeper Nathaniel Brooke and giving him no chance. Hahndorf rallied from the early setback, adjusting to the high bounce and swirling conditions on an otherwise outstanding surface.

Steve Noble, Kieran Guest, Jack Farrimond and Michael Lewington asserted themselves in defence and restricted the lively University forward line.
The midfield was a hive of activity with Shaun Smith, Scott Schubert, Leo Santangelo and Dan Hermel pressing to counter the sharp movement of the opposition. Both teams closed the ball down quickly and few shots at goal were taken despite the best intentions of strikers Kayne Stubing and Jordan Webber.

The speed of Smith and Stubing caught the University side napping, a tardy pass in defence saw Smith nip in to steal the ball and he fed Stubing with an angled pass behind the backline. Stubing needed no second invitation and raced past his marker, sizing up the goal before slotting the ball past the advancing Adelaide ‘keeper for the equaliser.



Barely two minutes had past before Hahndorf took the lead in unusual circumstances. The University ‘keeper collected a routine ball and looked for a quick distribution but his aborted throw merely fell to Smith’s feet and he poked the ball to Stubing who side-footed it into the vacant net.

University replied with a dangerous cross, the ball volleyed wide of goal but serving a warning to the visitors. The midfield continued to provide most of the action, Lewington, Santangelo and Schubert involved in tight tussles across the park. University moved the ball well but failed to create much before an ill-directed goal kick presented them with a great chance and they duly took it. Pouncing on the poor clearance, the home side centred the ball and fine drive was hammered past Brooke from the edge of the penalty area.

The half ended with the score locked at two goals apiece despite a late shot by Stubing, the forward acrobatically hooking the ball over his shoulder but striking it straight at the Adelaide ‘keeper.

The entertaining play continued in the second stanza through an attack by University, Brooke deflecting a sharp effort wide. A second chance fell to the hosts from a free kick but the shot was blazed over the bar from close in.

Hahndorf answered with a half chance falling to Santangelo, the dynamic forward also hitting the ball over the bar. The visitors kept the pressure on, holding the ball in the final third of the pitch but a resolute defence prevented Hahndorf from getting a shot on goal. A few willing tackles were made by both teams as each sought the ascendancy, the match increasing in intensity.

The match swung decisively mid way through the half, a period of University possession resulted in a mix up in the Magpie defence, a cross bounced off a defender into the net for an unfortunate own goal. Hahndorf tried to mount a response but again found it hard to hit the target.

A series of long clearances were exchanged by the ‘keepers before University made a sweeping move that cut the ball inside and the striker placed his shot in the corner of the net for a 4-2 lead. Chris Sawers entered the match and initiated some promising moves down the wing but the Magpies struggled to make an impact in the forward line.

Conversely, the University side were beginning to find large holes in the Hahndorf defence and it wasn’t long before a fifth goal was conceded. The hosts were now rampant in possession and hit the post twice before Hahndorf could respond. Schubert latched onto a layoff by Farrimond but his shot found the University ‘keeper and Hermel’s long shot sailed over the bar.

In the final ten minutes the Hahndorf defence sat off their opponents and had no answers to the University examination. Hahndorf conceded a further two goals before the Magpies almost scored a consolation goal when Stubing sent a cross that just eluded Sawers alone on the back post.

It was a disappointing and uncharacteristic final twenty-five minutes by Hahndorf and they will need to lift themselves for their next match against fellow promotees USC Lion. Best on the day for Hahndorf was Jack Farrimond, with Leo Santangelo and Michael Lewington, all three players fighting hard all day.


Hahndorf Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves battled well all match against the top placed Adelaide University, the tight tussle settled by a single goal to the hosts.

The University side took the match up to Hahndorf from the kickoff, the Magpies trying out a new formation and they took a little time to settle in. Kyle Eglinton and Dan Mardle started alongside veterans Andy Craig and “El Presidente” Stuart Thomas, the defensive line kept busy in the early running.

Hahndorf ‘keeper Mark McGrath made some routine saves with the home side looking to open the scoring but finding their radar astray with several shots well wide of the mark. The midfield work hard to keep Adelaide under pressure, John Lawler, Scott Breaker, Rupert “Crusher” Lindon and Steve Ness all in the mix.

The Magpies tested the University keeper several times and forwards Jesse Konstantinoff and Chris Hyde were encouraged by a couple of fumbles by the custodian, as the Magpies gained several corners from errors.

At the other end, Hahndorf worked on their defence to keep the University side from getting many chances on goal. The hosts kept the pressure up and with ten minutes left in the half, they eventually broke through. Hahndorf defended a high cross, but the headed clearance found a University player and he struck a cracking twenty metre volley which gave McGrath no chance.

The second half developed into a tight match, both teams aware that despite Adelaide making the majority of play, a goal to the Magpies could change the tide. Hahndorf brought Tin Staniford into the game as the visitors strove to find an equaliser, runs by Konstantinoff and Hyde meeting solid resistance.

On the defensive, the Magpies fought well under pressure, Craig and Thomas marshalling the troops with the University side looking to increase their slender lead. A couple of penalty area scrambles by Hahndorf denied University, the Magpies defending in numbers to keep the ball out.

Alex Robson and Tom Stevens entered the fray, both adjusting well to the intensity of the match. Konstantinoff almost equalised for the visitors but a great save by the University ‘keeper maintained their lead. Both teams had several more chances to add to the score but the respective defences stood tall before the match was brought to an end.

Man of the match for Hahndorf was Steve Ness, who had an outstanding match, with solid contributions from Thomas, Breaker and Craig.


Super Cs
The super Cs played brilliantly to score their first win of the season, hitting good form at the right time with a 4-1 win over the Mt Lofty Eagles.

Next week Hahndorf travel to Grange to take on USC Lion and the Super Cs are hosting the Southern Breakers at the Pine Avenue Arena for their clash.

Cup Round 1: Hahndorf V Adelaide Uni (2) and Adelaide Budapest V Hahndorf

Hahndorf v Adelaide University (2)

Hahndorf and Adelaide University put on an entertaining display for the first round of the Challenge Cup, the teams locked at 2-2 after 90 minutes before a goal in extra time saw the visitors take the win.

The Adelaide University (2) Third Division side went into the contest as the underdogs but came out firing in the early running, putting Hahndorf on the back foot. However, Hahndorf goalkeeper Mark McGrath dealt with the threat and the Magpies began to work their way back into the match through midfielders Mike Lewington, Jack Farrimond, Chris Sawers and Dan Hermel.

Hahndorf should have put in a score before half time, the Magpies hitting the target seven times but unable to get the ball past the University ‘keeper, Leo Santangelo and Tom Holland seeing plenty of the ball while Sawers also spurned chances.

While Hahndorf were creating the better opportunities, at the other end of the pitch Scott Schubert and Kieran Guest combined with experienced players Matt Norris and Steve Noble to quash the University threat. With the game developing into a fairly even affair, the Magpies were dealt a blow before half time when Holland suffered a serious ankle injury and Jordan Webber was brought on in his place.

After the break, the Adelaide University side took the initiative, moving the ball swiftly into attack and McGrath pulled off a cracking save to deny the score. Hahndorf failed to remedy the defensive lapse and further pressure by the visitors gave them the lead, a strike from the top of the penalty area finding the net.

Hahndorf responded almost immediately but Sawers’ goal was controversially deemed to be from an offside position. University continued to make the better play, their movement and pressure creating several chances before the Magpies forced a corner.

From the resulting kick, Hahndorf kept the ball in the area before Norris smashed a shot goalward but a deflection put the ball into the path of the ‘keeper and he pushed it wide. The hosts had a further opportunity blocked before a rash challenge saw a University player earn his second yellow card and subsequently an early bath.

With a man advantage Hahndorf began to play better and Santangelo and Webber both had good chances to even the score. However, the pressure eventually resulted in the equaliser; Sawers banging in the goal after Santangelo battled down the flank and put in a fine cross.

The Magpies continued to press for another score, Santangelo again the provider to Sawers, who knocked the ball back to Hermel but his shot was blasted over the bar.

Then University went 2-1 up, almost against the run of play, a neat exchange wrong footing the defence and the visiting forward made the most of the space on offer to tuck away their second score.

With time running down it was a tense finish to the match, Hahndorf pressing for a goal in the final minutes. A free kick just outside the penalty area gave Santangelo a good chance and he struck a beautifully curled shot to find the top corner with what was the final kick in normal time.

Extra time drew both sides into some desperate football, Hahndorf wasting a corner opportunity and University battling to keep the hosts out. Several openings fell to both sides but neither could take advantage.

A period of pressure by University led to a hand ball appeal in the penalty area but persistence paid off as they scored seconds later to lead 3-2 as the first half of extra time was brought to a close.

The final fifteen minutes saw Hahndorf pushing for an equaliser with Sawers working the wing well and the defence determined to prevent another Adelaide score. Lewington rose well to head a good chance over the bar from a corner while University answered by hitting the woodwork at the other end. A final push by the Magpies was not enough, their shooting astray as the referee signalled the final whistle.

Hahndorf’s Man of the Match was Leo Santangelo with another sterling performance with Chris Sawers and Dan Hermel also featuring for their relentless work throughout the match.





Reserves: Adelaide Budapest V Hahndorf

The Hahndorf reserves advanced to the next round of the Cup with a solid 1-0 victory over Adelaide Budapest, Jesse Konstantinoff breaking the deadlock with a clinical strike.

Hahndorf and Budapest met each other for the second time this season and there was little between the teams in the opening exchanges. Budapest fired an early shot when they broke through the defence but the effort went high over the bar and did not trouble Magpie goalkeeper Nathaniel Brooke.

Hahndorf hit back with Jesse Konstantinoff earning a corner and “El Presidente”, Stuart Thomas sent John Lawler’s neat ball just past the post with his head. Hahndorf had Steve Ness and Rupert “Crusher” Lindon patrolling the middle of the large park where they were winning the contested possession.

Defenders Scott Breaker and Dan Mardle diffused some promising Budapest attacks, with Andy Craig and Thomas cutting out the high ball into the middle. Chris Hyde sent Kyle Eglinton down the flank and his cross found Konstantinoff, but a heavy touch by the striker halted the opportunity.

Thomas continued to win the aerial ball and he set up Hyde from a corner kick but Hyde’s true shot was parried by the Budapest ‘keeper as the Magpies increased the pressure on the hosts.

Budapest then had a one on one chance but Brooke was in good position to hold the well struck shot and deny the score. Konstantinoff was getting plenty of the ball and beat three opponents on a dazzling run before his progress was halted by the goal-line. A further attack by Hahndorf saw Eglinton latch onto Konstantinoff’s pass before centring to Hyde, but unfortunately for the Magpies the ‘keeper was again able to block the chance.

Just before half time, Budapest had their best chance to score but the player headed the ball over the bar after a good cross found him alone at the back post.

Hahndorf regrouped at half time and were immediately on the attack upon the resumption of play. Lindon cut a swathe down the wing before pushing the ball inside to Konstantinoff, the striker turning sharply and unleashing a thunderous shot which cannoned of the crossbar. The Magpies kept the ball in the penalty area and Hyde slipped a pass to Eglinton, his shot ricocheting off the woodwork for the second time in within seconds.

Tom Stevens entered the match with thirty minutes to go, as Hahndorf kept up the tempo through Lawler. The winger ran into space to cross for Hyde, the experienced forward turning and shooting in a fluid movement but again the Budapest ‘keeper was on hand to block the shot.

Ness was very industrious in midfield, cutting out the potential threat of the home side and, in tandem with Lindon, setting the pace of the game. Konstantinoff found himself one on one with the ‘keeper after Craig’s lofted pass put him behind the defence but he stuck the ball straight at the ‘keeper to keep the match deadlocked.

An off the ball incident was witnessed by the referee and a Budapest player earned himself an early shower, the piece of petulance costly for the hosts as Hahndorf took full toll minutes later. The Magpies pressed forward and Hyde made space in the penalty area to feed Konstantinoff who took a touch before slamming the ball into the roof of the net.

Hahndorf brought on Alex Robson and Tim Staniford in the final fifteen minutes as the visitors weathered any further attacks by Budapest, the hosts not able to get a clear chance on goal before full time was signalled.

It was a deserved team win for the Magpies in a match where they dictated proceedings for much of the play. Man of the Match honours went to Rupert Lindon, with Steve Ness, Jesse konstantinoff and Chris Hyde also prominent in a solid all around team effort.

Next week the Magpies travel to take on Adelaide University (1) on the plush grounds of the University sports fields while the Super Cs are also away to local rivals Mt Lofty Eagles.

Round 14: Adelaide University V Hahndorf Magpies

Adelaide University V Hahndorf Magpies

In difficult conditions, Hahndorf responded well to an early setback to outplay Adelaide University with a 4-1 win to maintain second place in the 3rd Division of the SA Amateur Soccer League.

Hahndorf opened play with Mark McGrath in goal, presiding over a defensive line containing Scott Taylor, Steve Noble, Matt Norris and Jon Lynn. The pitch did the visiting Magpies no favours, boggy areas and puddles making the passing game a lottery at times. The Magpie midfield of Jack Farrimond, Dan Hermel, Kayne Stubing and Aaron Noble adjusted their play give forwards Tom Holland and Jordan Webber a range of attacking options.

The opening exchanges were relatively even but a rare mistake in defence gave Adelaide possession close to goal and they converted their chance to take a 1 nil lead. Hahndorf didn’t dwell on the misfortune and hit back within ten minutes to restore parity. A.Noble made no mistake from the penalty spot after an infringement by the University ‘keeper after some attacking play by the visitors.

Hahndorf kept up the pressure and added a second goal, Webber’s determined run and shot blocked by the University ‘keeper. However Holland followed up with a telling strike, his accurate left foot giving Hahndorf the 2-1 lead.

Hahndorf were providing the better football but the Adelaide side were also putting some opportunities together and kept the Magpie defence on alert. Farrimond was revelling in the conditions, his robust challenges helping to win the midfield battle.

Hahndorf took a 3-1 lead into half time courtesy of a sublime piece of skill from A.Noble. Receiving the ball some 35 metres from goal, the sprightly youngster jinked sideways to create space and then launched an audacious chip that cleared the ‘keeper to nestle in the back of the net. Stubing almost added a fourth, but just failed to get on the end of Holland’s outstanding cross, the ball sliding past the speedster.

The second half started in a fairly even tussle, neither team able to create a clear shot at goal with the respective defences in a miserly mood, Taylor and Norris particularly adept in cutting out attacks.

Hahndorf went looking for goals and could have had a couple more, Hermel’s short corner creating confusion in the six-yard box before it was hacked away to safety by Adelaide. Leo Santangelo was brought into the match to add some glamour to the mudfest and he should have scored soon after his introduction. The tall striker, usually a model of consistency, was presented with a great chance after the ‘keeper could only parry Hermel’s shot into his path but Santagelo slipped at the vital moment and spooned the ball over the bar from close range.

Both teams lost a player each after the referee awarded a yellow card for dissent in the same incident, leaving the play open for the remaining fifteen minutes. Hahndorf brought on Max Gordon-Edwards and the talented midfielder was immediately into the action with Holland setting him up with a great pass; the shot however went straight to the Adelaide ‘keeper.

He was to make amends within minutes however, a long corner giving him two chances to cut the ball back, the second finding Norris and the central defender struck a superb volley across goal into the top corner. Santangelo and Gordon-Edwards combined for a further chance but the shot went wide as Hahndorf finished the match with better options than their opponents.

The 4-1 win was a deserved reward for the Magpies in trying conditions and maintains their second place on the league ladder. Man of the match was Tom Holland who had a brilliant game, a goal and some inspirational passing a highlight on the overcast day. He was ably supported by Aaron Noble, who scored goal of the day and Scott Taylor, a pillar of strength in defence.




Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves met a determined Adelaide University side on a treacherous pitch with both teams having to settle for a share of the points in a 1-1 draw.

Overnight and morning rain drenched the Adelaide University pitch leaving it like a wetlands rather than the parklands but with the ground having a reasonably firm base, the referee decided play would begin. Both teams spent the opening minutes gauging the conditions, the ball prone to sticking in some areas and skipping through in others.

The Magpies started Nathaniel Brooke in goal, the big keeper making a strong recovery from head injuries a fortnight ago and he was immediately on his game and commanding the penalty area. Sam Heyward and Max Gordon-Edwards formed a potent strike force in front of a dynamic midfield containing Kyle Eglinton, David Grant, Gary Ledson and Ash Parr.

Hahndorf weathered a few University attacks, defenders Matt Medley, Andy Craig, Rupert ‘The Enforcer’ Lindon and Mike Lewington equal to the early examination and adjusting their play to the conditions. Working into the match, the Hahndorf midfield put together some tidy moves with Eglinton and Parr the focus on the flanks, the wide regions more conducive to flowing play.

Both teams had chances at goal but Adelaide had difficulty finding the target while the Hahndorf efforts found the University ‘keeper in good form, diving to save several shots from Heyward, Parr and Gordon-Edwards. However, it was Hahndorf who were beginning to take the upper hand and they capitalised with a goal after a good build up.

Grant pounced on a loose ball to find Heyward and he sent a pass wide to Parr, the bustling winger deceiving his marker before bursting into the penalty area and arrowing a low shot at goal. The University ‘keeper dived left but could only parry the ball and it fell to Gordon-Edwards who drilled it into the bottom corner of the net to give the Magpies the lead.

Hahndorf had more opportunities to add to their score in the half but found the Adelaide custodian the main impediment. A throw to Ledson opened up a chance for Gordon-Edwards but his sizzling shot went just wide with the ‘keeper beaten.

In the second half Hahndorf opened with some scintillating play but while they pinned University back, the Magpies could not generate a clear shot at goal. Grant, Parr, Ledson and Eglinton controlled the play, bringing Gordon-Edwards and Heyward some opportunities but the visitors failed to find a decisive strike.

Adelaide University persevered however and found an equaliser through a quick break, the well-struck shot leaving Brooke little chance. The goal bolstered the home side and they found renewed purpose and put Hahndorf under increasing pressure.

Hahndorf made a couple of substitutions, bringing on Ben ‘Beninho’ Wells and Jesse Konstantinoff. Gordon-Edwards was in sparkling form, his deceptive pace causing Adelaide problems and on one enterprising run he had only the goalkeeper to beat but a good save denied Hahndorf their second goal.

Adelaide had chances of their own but also found their aim astray and despite the attacking intentions of both teams the match ended with a draw, the same result as earlier in the season. Man of the match for Hahndorf was Gordon-Edwards, the young forward showcasing his skills in trying conditions.


Super Cs
The Div 4 Cs enjoyed a 3-1 win over the Dragon Rangers, a great reward for the team after a difficult season. The Div 5 Cs were on the wrong end of a 2-1 score-line against the Vipers, the home referee playing a major role in the result.

Next week the Hahndorf Magpies battle for local bragging rights when they visit Mt Barker at the Cornerstone College ground. The Div 4 Cs are away to Greenock while the Div 5 Cs have a shorter trip when they visit Sturt Marion.

Round 5: Hahndorf V Adelaide University

Hahndorf Scores with Guest Appearance

In a high quality encounter, Hahndorf triumphed 2-1 over a fast finishing Adelaide University in the 5th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 3rd Division.

The match got underway in sparkling sunshine, with Hahndorf on the front foot through Leo Santangelo and Dan Holland, the strikers a focal point of midfielders Alex Chapman, Jack Farrimond, Steve Noble and Kayne Stubing. Nathaniel Brooke took command between the sticks, behind a defensive line of Matt Medley, Jon Lynn, Luke Guest and Scott Taylor.

An even twenty minutes opened the game as both sides sought to exploit the opposition defence and control the midfield. However, clear chances were rare with Adelaide University’s best chance being denied by Lynn making ground to stop a shot after Brooke had been rounded.

Holland answered for the Magpies after a flowing move involving Farrimond and Santangelo, but the University ‘keeper was in good position to make the save. Hahndorf then made some useful ground, holding the ball in their attacking half and gaining several corners.

A free kick from the flank provided the opening goal for Hahndorf, Holland whipping the ball in and the University ‘keeper was unable to hold the cross. Stubing pounced on the loose ball but could not get a shot away and it fell to Guest, the mobile defender drilling it into the far corner of the goal.

The Magpies maintained their lead to half time with the help of some excellent defence from Lynn, Medley, Guest and Taylor as the visitors tried to even the score before the break.

The second half was much the same as the first, a tight tussle with both defences on giving little away. Stubing went close with a header, but it flashed past the wrong side of the back post. Adelaide then put Hahndorf under pressure, pinning the Magpies back with a series of corners, but the home team defended well under the stress.

Several times Stubing launched Hahndorf into attack, striding down the flank to deliver some fine crosses, Santangelo getting on the end of one and unlucky to see his header go over the bar. Guest also missed the target with his header, before going on a scything run to release Santangelo, who in turn found Holland, his goal-bound shot drawing an acrobatic tip over the bar from the University ‘keeper.

Eventually Hahndorf’s pressure produced the second goal, Holland delivering a deep free that was gathered by Guest out wide. Deceiving his marker, Guest unleashed a fierce drive from a sharp angle, the shot unstoppable as it speared into the top corner despite the ‘keeper getting a hand on it.

Hahndorf made several substitutions, bringing on Gilbert Ward and Chris Sawers as the Magpies looked to consolidate their lead. With the Hahndorf defence largely on top for most of the game, Lynn conspicuous with his timely interceptions, Adelaide University sparked a torrid final ten minutes when they scored.

A long ball was gathered by the visiting forward who shot, Brooke’s parry unable to keep the ball rolling toward goal and as four players converged, University were able to bundle it in. Adelaide University upped the tempo looking for an equaliser, but the Magpies responded well, the defence calm under examination.

A yellow card was given out to a University player when he theatrically fell in the penalty area, confirming calls from a spectator suggesting the offender was clearly a first year drama student with much to learn.

Hahndorf had a chance to put the game beyond reach with a slick move that left Holland with a shot after Santangelo’s lay off, but his strike went narrowly wide. Both teams were desperate for possession in the dwindling minutes but could not breech the respective defences, who held firm to the final whistle.

Best on the day for Hahndorf was Luke Guest, a double strike to the central defender underlining his versatility at both ends of the park. He was assisted by Jon Lynn, the club stalwart a rock in leading the defence with Dan Holland also putting in a sterling game all day.


Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves fought out a highly contestable scoreless draw in a match of few clear chances with both teams in fine form at the back.

Adelaide University had the early running from kick off and put the defence of Kyle Eglinton, Andy Craig, Mike Lewington and Gilbert Ward under scrutiny. Despite their intent, the University side created few chances to trouble Magpie custodian James Nicholson and the hosts started to work their way into the match.

Midfielders John Lawler, Colin Hibbert, Chris Sawers and Max Gordon-Edwards began to influence the play, although Hahndorf too had trouble creating chances through their strikers, Jesse Konstantinoff and Jordan Webber.

Both teams had periods of domination but could do little to make it count on the score board, the respective defences working hard to deny any easy chances. Several corners to Hahndorf were not capitalised on, with efforts going wide as the home team tried to prise open the University side.

The arm wrestle continued into the second half, the defence of Eglinton and Lewington crucial in keeping Adelaide University to a few, ineffective long shots. Ward and Sawers worked well to restrict the visitors, while Webber and Konstantinoff were busy in attack but could not find a way through the defence.

Rupert “the Enforcer “Lindon and Ben “Beninho” Wells entered the fray during the half with Hahndorf hoping the injection of fresh legs would generate a goal. The Magpies best chance fell to Konstantinoff, chasing a bouncing ball he lifted his shot over the advancing ‘keeper but it went just wide of goal.

Several late free kicks to the Adelaide side put Hahndorf under pressure at the back but they responded well, the defence not giving an inch in the cauldron of battle. The combatants had to settle for a share of the points with no goals scored despite the entertaining and high quality displayed by both teams.

Best on the day for Hahndorf was Kyle Eglinton for his comprehensive effort in defence, aided by big Mike Lewington who won most of his contested challenges. Gilbert Ward also put in a solid game, cutting out many University attacks and often putting Hahndorf on the counter attack.


Super Cs

In a pulsating encounter, the Hahndorf Div5 Cs trailed twice before scoring a second half winner to take the points over the visiting Vipers. After the Vipers went a goal up, Sam Wood equalised with a stunning volley from Luke Jones’ throw, the shot rocketing into the bottom corner of the net.

The Vipers once again took the lead, only for Scott Schubert to fire in the reply from the edge of the area, squeezing a scintillating shot between two players to complete an entertaining first half. An even second half turned Hahndorf’s way, with Owen “the Black Pearl” Boyce’s penalty trickling over the line after the Vipers ‘keeper almost saved the spot kick.

The Div 4 Cs were not so lucky, but put in a brave performance as the depleted eight man team went down 4-1 to the Dragon Rangers. A highlight for Hahndorf was the equalising goal at 1-1, Kieran Guest emulating his brother’s efforts with a spectacular drive from distance to find the top corner of net.

Next week, Hahndorf once again host a triple-header at the Pine avenue arena, bragging rights on the line when the First and Reserve teams contest the local derby against Mt Barker. The Div 5 Cs start the days action at 11am when they take on Sturt Marion while the Div 4 Cs host Greenock at Mylor for their 3pm kick off.

Round 10: Hahndorf V Adelaide Uni

Hahndorf V Adelaide University

Hahndorf survived a dour contest and grabbed a late winner to take the points from Adelaide University on Saturday for the 10th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League Third Division.

The Magpies took to the field with Mark McGrath in goal, behind a back line of Kyle Eglinton, Lee Stibbs, Todd Newman and the wily fox, Wayne Forrester. Steve Noble, Jon Lynn, David Grant and John Lawler made up the engine room of the midfield with Ash Oosh and Brendan Kilpatrick making the running up front.

Hahndorf started the match well and looked to have the measure of their opponents, but like recent games, failed to register their dominance on the scoreboard. Lawler, Grant and Oosh put together some great passes to have University under pressure but getting shots on target eluded the Magpies.

The defence largely had the visitors under control, two of the ‘Bald Brothers” Forrester and Newman comfortable in denying Adelaide any chances while Stibbs and Eglinton worked hard to keep the flanks free from University’s forays forward.

Noble and Lynn were dominant in the midfield, breaking up the play of Adelaide and did not allow them to get any consistent possession. Lynn went close with a fine effort as did Oosh after a defence-splitting pass from Noble. Kilpatrick kept up the forward pressure with some hostile attacks on the ball as Oosh closed the half with a great shot that brought out a terrific save by the University ‘keeper.

The start of the second half was nearly a disaster for Hahndorf as Adelaide almost scored after appearing the catch the Magpies napping. With University beginning to create more, Hahndorf made some substitutions, Lawler and Kilpatrick making way for Mike Lewington and Jack Farrimond.

Oosh intercepted a lazy ball from the defence but put his shot over the bar with the goal beckoning. Stibbs tried a little fancy footwork to get the Magpies going and the home team responded with some good build up play, however again turning possession into a score proved difficult.

Adelaide University had their ‘keeper to thank when he made a great double save, first denying Oosh from close range then getting a touch to push the follow up shot by Lewington wide. Hahndorf continued to push but Adelaide also created some chances as the match looked to be headed for a draw, neither side able to make an impression on the scoreboard.

Luck finally went the Magpies way when Forrester took a quick free kick to send Grant charging down the wing. The experienced Grant took the ball to the by-line before rifling in a scorching low cross to for the onrushing players. Under pressure, an Adelaide defender lunged at the ball but only managed to find the top corner of the net, to Hahndorf’s delight and relief.

The Magpies tried to press for more goals and really should have added a second when a flowing move from Stibbs and Farrimond set up Oosh but again the Adelaide ‘keeper was equal to the task. With minutes remaining Owen Boyce entered the fray as both teams searched for a score. Hahndorf remained composed as they passed the ball from defence to attack, keeping possession as time run out.

The win was welcomed by the Magpies, having battled for little reward for the majority of the match and keeps them within striking distance of the league leaders. Best on the day were Noble, Oosh and Lynn, the trio industrious in their workrate and drawing accolades for their commitment to the ball.


Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves put away second placed Adelaide University, with three first half goals giving the Magpies a well-deserved three points.

Looking to improve on their recent efforts, the Magpie Reserves pushed forward on the Adelaide side from the opening whistle. Mike Lewington and Chris Hyde put the Uni defence under pressure as the midfield of Rupert Lindon, Gary Ledson, big man Tyrone Blunt and the “Black Pearl” Owen Boyce took control of the game from the outset.

Going with the slope, Hahndorf pinned Adelaide back in their own half and made opportunities for the opening goal, shots from Hyde and Lewington an early warning for the visitors. Ten minutes into the match the Magpies made their possession count with the opening goal. A series of passes put Hyde on a tight angle but his shot was not held by the Uni ‘keeper and Boyce pounced at the back post to slot the ball home.

The visitors tried to hit back but the defensive triangle of custodian Nathaniel Brooke, defenders Andy Craig and Stuart Thomas with Matt Medley and the Italian Maestro, Edmondo Palombo held the University attack well. Hahndorf continued to build from the back and attacked Adelaide constantly, shots coming from Lewington, Blunt and Hyde going close.

Defenders Medley and Thomas got into the action, Medley hitting a pile driver from distance that almost got past the ’keeper and Thomas having two chances, one a header over the bar and then minutes later having a spectacular bicycle kick cleared off the line.

The Magpies second arrived via Blunt, the big midfielder reacting quickly to Craig’s ambitious drive to latch onto the loose ball and coolly slot it past the stranded University ‘keeper. The visitors were clearly rattled and Hahndorf controlled the game, passing the ball around and restricting Adelaide’s chances to long shots that Brooke confidently dealt with.

The Magpies made it their best start to a game with a third just before half time, Lewington put through by some great interplay from Blunt and Ledson. The big forward advanced on goal and picked his spot, driving the shot past the exposed Adelaide ‘keeper.

After half time, a knock to Ledson started a series of substitutions with Brad Francis, Luke Jones and the “Albino Yeti”, Lachlan McQueen making an appearance. Hahndorf controlled the tempo of the match, keeping University at arms length while creating more chances. Hyde had a header going in before the Adelaide ‘keeper made a vital save.

Craig, Palombo, Thomas and Medley gave the University attack little joy, keeping the visitors out of the penalty area and giving the ball to the midfielders. Jones, Lindon and Mcqueen worked the flanks to keep Adelaide under pressure with some searching crosses but the Magpies were unable to add to the score. As the match entered its final stages, Hyde displayed his control and finesse, holding possession despite the attentions of several opponents.

The win was a great start to the second half of the season and keeps the Reserves in touch with the league leaders. In a great team effort illustrating intensity for the ball and dynamic soccer, among the best on the day were Craig, Medley and Blunt.

Next week the Reserves have a week off due to a cup round while the First team take on league leaders Burundi Eagles in a catch up match down at League headquarters, Grange.

This weeks report on the match between Adelaide University and Hahndorf, enjoy.

Adelaide Uni V Hahndorf

Hahndorf travelled to the North Adelaide Parklands to face the Adelaide University Blacks for the ninth round of the SAASL second division, but came up short in a 2-0 defeat.

Retaining their formation from last week the Magpies got off to a busy start with the core midfielders Ash Parr, Todd Newman and Craig Cottle, looking to take control. Wide players Paul Charles and John Lawler had plenty of ground to cover on the wide University pitch as the home side pushed for ascendancy early on. However the defensive unit of Wayne Forrester, Andy Craig and Tyrone Blunt were cohesive and goalkeeper Danny Pace had few meaningful shots to keep out.

In attack, Hahndorf favoured a South American flavour with mercurial Chilean Roly Tobar and the Argentinian Wiz, Martin Moran putting the Blacks defence under notice with a few early attempts.

The battle for the midfield contained the most interest and it was Uni who made their possession count after twenty-five minutes, getting an untracked player forward and creating an extra man as they opened the scoring from a cross that was knocked in from close range.

The goal was a setback for the Magpies but proved to be a catalyst in tightening up the midfield. Hahndorf pressed forward but lacked the vital shot or pass to get them the equaliser. Tobar and Moran at times combined well and had support from flanking runs by Charles and Lawler. As the half wound down Adelaide caused some late panic in the Hahndorf penalty area but could not find the target.

After the break, it was again an arm wrestle for midfield dominance with both teams showing a determined spirit. Blunt was having an outstanding game in breaking down the Uni attacks and Craig dealt with the aerial balls sent forward with Forrester cleaning up the loose ball.

Hahndorf had several promising free kicks but Cottle’s radar was unusually askew, although he had one effort just go wide with the ’keeper stranded. The Magpies kept up the pressure and earned several corners, however none were able to be capitalised on.

It was during a period of sustained Hahndorf possession when Adelaide were able to add to their tally, a sweeping counterattack that exposed the Magpie backline. With the Uni forward under pressure from Blunt, he managed to squeeze a shot in past Pace and consolidate their lead.

Hahndorf regrouped and substituted Tobar and Parr for Brad Francis and Stephen Ness. Francis was immediately a threat forward, his unique style making life difficult for the Blacks defence and Hahndorf were unlucky not to open their account. Ness too added some midfield energy as the Magpies, urged on by some vocal support, tried to break through on goal.

Adelaide almost sealed the game with a third goal but Pace stretched out to push a sharp effort past the post. With ten minutes remaining Hahndorf brought on Rupert Lindon for Craig as the Magpies pushed more players forward. Late on, Uni were awarded a penalty but Pace was at his acrobatic best to deny the Blacks a third score. The Hahndorf side went close on several more occasions but again lacked a telling shot as Uni held on to their lead in the dying minutes.

Blunt was outstanding as best on ground, followed by the solid contributions of Forrester, Newman and Craig. The Hahndorf side will take many positives out of the game as they develop their new formation and just need to put some goals away to turn around their season.

Reserves

The Hahndorf youth policy was evident this round as the youngest ever Reserves side was put out on the park, with no player over the age of 22. Despite the exuberance of youth, the Magpies were a touch unlucky to go down two goals to nil.

Hahndorf resorted to a traditional 4-4-2 line up behind regular custodian Nathaniel Brooke. Ben Wells, Rupert Lindon, Matt Medley and Sam Gowan formed the defensive line with the midfield comprised by Luke Jones, Lachlan McQueen, Alex Oldham and Kyle Eglinton. The strike force of Vin Chow and Jack Goodfellow carried Hahndorf’s hopes up front and they began in bright fashion, receiving strong support from the midfield.

Both sides worked hard in the midfield to supply the forwards but it was the Uni side that created the better opportunities in the opening twenty minutes, Brooke called into action several times. Medley, impressing each week in central defence and Lindon were industrious in containing the home sides’ forwards and were aided by Wells and Gowan.

Goodfellow and Chow found the Blacks defence a difficult proposition, but managed to find openings that kept the opposition ‘keeper on his toes. However, it was Uni that opened the scoring on the half hour, a sharp move catching out the Magpies and exposing the goal.

The Reserves countered with a period of possession which resulted in Oldham almost equalising with a header, the shot just sliding wide of goal. As the half drew to a close, Gowan made two valuable contributions, putting in a recovering tackle and on hand to clear from Brooke’s great save as Uni looked to add to the score.

On the resumption of play, Uni picked up where they left and put the Magpie defence under pressure. Medley and Wells blunted the attacks and Hahndorf took more control of the ball. Angus Coulls was brought on for Gowan as Hahndorf had opportunities to score. Lindon put a fine ball through to Chow but it was deemed offside and Jones put in a great effort to get a shot in that was tipped away for a corner. McQueen added to the pressure with a volley that unfortunately was aimed straight at the Uni ‘keeper.

It was surprising then when the Blacks added their second, an unlucky bounce catching Brooke short and his tapped clearance was headed back past him. Hahndorf answered the goal with Medley getting an incisive pass to Goodfellow and he drew a full length save from the host’s ‘keeper to earn a corner.

The Magpie Reserves had several more opportunities to score but even from close range could not find the net. In the remaining minutes Hahndorf continued to play well but could not prise open the Uni defence. Best on the day were Medley and Brooke.

It was another frustrating match as Hahndorf looked likely to score but lack of experience is proving to be a challenge in the final third of the pitch.

The Hahndorf Magpies have a week off before taking on MA Hawks at Pine Avenue and the Super C’s host Adelaide Uni on the 28^th of June.

Super C’s

The Super C’s fought out a titanic battle with long-term adversaries Adelaide Monarchs down on the Grange ground. With scores locked at 4-4, Hahndorf fought hard to grab a winner in the dying minutes to run out 4-5 winners.