Showing posts with label Flinders Uni. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Flinders Uni. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Round 12: Flinders Uni V Hahndorf

Flinders University V Hahndorf Magpies

The Hahndorf Magpies ventured to Flinders University looking to maintain their league leading status but an in-form home goalkeeper and some errant finishing kept the combatants locked at one all by the final whistle.

In the sparkling winter sunshine, Hahndorf set out to use the spaces of the wide pitch, employing a four-man midfield of Chris Sawers, Aaron Noble, Jack Farrimond and Dan Hermel behind spearheads Tom Holland and Leo Santangelo.

The Magpies made their intentions clear with a few marauding attacks into Flinders territory with Holland and Santangelo trying some speculative shots early on. The Magpies were also alert in defence, Steve Noble, Matt Norris, Scott Taylor and Jon Lynn keeping Uni away from testing the reflexes of goalkeeper Mark McGrath.

As the game developed, Uni began to impose themselves on the match with the midfield up for contest, each team having periods of domination and finding their range in front of goal. Flinders had a good chance with a header but McGrath was comfortably in position to prevent the score. Hahndorf responded through Hermel, a nice passage of play resulting in a fine cross from A. Noble who found Hermel’s head but the Uni ‘keeper was on hand to make the save.

Play continued to ebb and flow between the teams before a telling piece of University possession gave them the lead, a centring ball not cleared by Hahndorf and it fell to the University striker and he thumped it in from four metres.

Hahndorf answered the challenge with a series of piercing attacks, Holland and Santangelo with two very good chances that should have given the Magpies the equaliser but they found the home custodian in good form. The visitors kept up the pressure with Hermel the next to try but he shot over the bar from a good position.

A corner to Hahndorf nearly provided the breakthrough but Norris’ powerful header skimmed the crossbar, a scant reward for his good positioning and salmon-like leap. The University side attempted to stem the waves of attack, but the resurgent Hahndorf defence gave little away and the rarely gave Flinders a sight of goal.
A deep free kick from Taylor picked out Hermel and he headed to Holland who struck a powerful shot at goal. The shot looked to give Hahndorf the equaliser but a tremendous diving save denied the visitors a deserved goal. A.Noble showcased his fleet footed skills, eluding two Flinders players in a tight space before a third scythed him down, the cynical challenge earning a yellow card as the midfield intensity peaked before half time.

After the break, Hahndorf reassessed their position and sought to make their opportunities count, finding an equaliser within ten minutes of the restart. A good build up by the Magpies culminated in Santangelo lifting his shot over the diving ‘keeper, the sharpshooter put in close to goal by Holland’s clever pass from the edge of the area.

The visitors almost went ahead soon after when Sawers set up A.Noble with a well struck volley, but desperate defending saw the goal-bound effort deflected for a corner. Flinders University responded to the threat by contesting harder through in the midfield, but they were unable to mount any genuine attack on the Hahndorf goal.

The home side remained in the match largely through the excellent form of their ‘keeper, who was having an outstanding game and denied the Magpies on numerous occasions as Hahndorf pressed for the winning goal. Santangelo had a promising strike brilliantly saved after being put into a great position by A.Noble. Sawers set up Farrimond and he too was denied by desperate defending as the Magpies lay siege to the Flinders goal.

Jordan Webber and Kayne Stubing were brought on for a fresh attacking approach as the match drew on, Hahndorf seeking a way past the uncanny ‘keeper. Webber almost prised the University side open, his cross diverted behind the ‘keeper but as the Flinders’ custodian and Santangelo raced to the loose ball, the latter could only find the side netting from a narrow angle.

Hahndorf brought on Luke Guest on in the final minutes as the pressure mounted on the hosts but in the end time was the enemy as the referee signalled the end of the entertaining match. Man of the match was Aaron Noble, the youngster putting in an outstanding effort all game.


Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves moved within four points of the top with a tenacious 3-1 win over league leaders Flinders University.

As could be expected from the two top teams, the match got off to a fairly even opening with both sides using the generous width on offer to create chances. Hahndorf began with Nathaniel Brooke in goal, behind a defensive unit of Luke Guest, Matt Medley, Andy Craig and Rupert ‘the enforcer’ Lindon. Mike Lewington anchored the versatile midfield of Max Gordon-Edwards, David Grant, Kyle Eglinton and Alex Chapman with Jordan Webber the focal point in attack.

The thrust and parry of the early action saw both teams keen to make their mark on the match with perhaps the hosts creating the better opportunities. However as the match developed Hahndorf began to make their passing game come to the fore with Eglinton and Gordon-Edwards exploiting the flanks. Webber proved to be a handful up front and midway through the half the Magpies drew first blood with a clinical strike from the marksman after fine work from Gordon-Edwards found Webber in good position.

The lead did not last long however with the University hitting back within five minutes, a well hit shot from distance finding the corner of goal. With parity restored, the intensity of the match lifted with possession being highly contested. Challenges were robust, with neither team giving ground. Hahndorf suffered a blow when Brooke was forced to leave the field after making an outstanding save, the big ‘keeper suffering a head injury as his momentum carried him into the opposing player.

Hahndorf rearranged their team with Ash Parr brought on and the versatile Guest donning the gloves for the Magpies and making several good saves in the half. Further chances fell to the Magpies but they were unable to make them count as the half drew to an end.
Upon resumption of play, the visitors took the game up to Flinders University. Chapman, Grant and Lewington battled hard to give Hahndorf the upper hand in midfield while Webber and Gordon-Edwards continued to cause consternation for the Flinders defence. Craig, Parr, Medley and Lindon tightened their defensive duties and gave their opponents few chances. Jesse Konstantinoff was brought on with thirty minutes remaining as the Magpies went searching for goals.
A period of Hahndorf pressure eventually brought reward, a Grant corner causing panic in the University area and Konstantinoff poked the ball towards goal before a Flinders player edged it past his ‘keeper. The home side tried to respond but Guest was rarely tested with Hahndorf’s defence determined to deny Flinders any shot at an equaliser.

Hahndorf sealed the result ten minutes from time with a controversial third goal. With the Flinders ‘keeper strangely deserting his goal to chase a ball out to the side line, the referee called play on with the custodian some distance from home. Hahndorf took a throw to Webber and he slotted the ball home with the Flinders ‘keeper struggling to return to goal. The Flinders’ players were incensed by the goal but the referee stood by his decision.

The remaining minutes saw Flinders mount some ineffective attacks and Hahndorf maintained a strong defence to see out the match, the win just reward for an outstanding team effort with all players performing well. Best on the day was Jordon Webber, the rambunctious forward a constant threat with Luke Guest also having a fine game, his versatility underlined by his appearance in the First team and he also put in seventy minutes for the Cs on the neighbouring pitch. Max Gordon-Edwards rounded out the votes with a fine game in midfield.

Super Cs
The Div 4 Cs narrowly went down to Flinders University, a 4-3 score ensuring plenty of action with Angus Hambrook, Paul Below and Dan Proom all producing fine goals. The Div 5 Cs were defeated by BOSA 2-0 in a close affair, the odd goal in each half separating the teams.
Next week Hahndorf are home at Pine Avenue to McLaren District with the Div 5 Cs kicking off proceedings at 11am when they host St Peters. The Div 4 Cs are playing Strathalbyn at the Mylor ground for the 3pm start.

Tuesday, May 04, 2010

Round 3: Hahndorf V Fliders University

Hahndorf V Flinders University
Handing out a 5-2 drubbing, Hahndorf gave Flinders University a footballing lecture, to keep the Magpies in second place in the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 3rd Division.

On a fine autumnal afternoon, the two teams played an even opening ten minutes, Flinders getting the first sight of goal but the effort passed harmlessly over the bar of James Nicholson‟s goal. Leo Santangelo replied for Hahndorf, firing wide after a good build up through Callum Graham and Kayne Stubing.

Hahndorf found a viable alley to goal on the right flank, Steve and Aaron Noble combining to carve open the Uni defence on numerous occasions. The Magpies gained control of the midfield with Tom Holland‟s distribution the foil to the industrious work of Jack Farrimond as Hahndorf enjoyed a period of sustained pressure on the University side.

The defence of Martin Busch, Jon Lynn and Scott Taylor were never truly stretched in the early going and Hahndorf underlined their authority with a brilliant move to open the scoring. Moving out from the back, Lynn, A.Noble and Holland played a series of short passes to bring the ball into the attacking third, Holland then sliced open the defence with a terrific pass to Graham. Bearing in on goal, Graham picked his spot and gave the University 'keeper no chance with a fine finish.

Looking to double their advantage, Santangelo broke forward and his on-target shot was deflected by the goalkeeper to Stubing but he hit his effort over the bar. Flinders hit back with a sharp move but the forward could only pick out Nicholson in goal with his header. Better was to come from the visitors however and they equalised with a bullet-like free kick from outside the penalty area.

Hahndorf stormed back to regain the lead, a corner by the Magpies only half cleared when Taylor‟s effort was blocked and Stubing stepped up to fire a shot through traffic into the corner of goal. The Magpies played out the rest of the half in control, A.Noble, Holland and Graham notable with some fine touches.

Hahndorf began the second half in stirring fashion, a quick break on the left releasing Stubing and he put in a superb angled cross to Santangelo. The athletic forward made good ground to stretch out a leg and guide a half volley past the exposed 'keeper for 3-1 lead.

Hahndorf kept on top of the game with some sustained pressure, Santangelo looking for his second when he shot just wide after the Magpies had forged an opening through some excellent midfield possession. Holland and A.Noble combined to threaten the Flinders‟ goal and forced a hasty clearance by their defence, the ball launched over the tennis courts. While waited for the ball to be couriered back, Hahndorf made their first substitution, bringing on Max Edwards for A.Noble.

The University side fought back to apply some pressure to the Hahndorf defence, but Lynn, S.Noble, Taylor and Busch limited the visitors chances. The big German then underscored his versatility with a magnificent goal from distance, curling a left-footer to the top, far corner after S.Noble picked him out with a smart throw.

The Magpies made further changes, Matt Medley and Shaun Smith replacing Taylor and Holland. The substitutes may have brought immediate reward when Graham and Smith exchanged passes and crossed for Edwards, but he was unable to find the target. Santangelo maintained his strong game with a shot from distance but it too passed just wide of the goal.

Hahndorf‟s persistence paid off when Stubing added his second and the Magpies fifth, Graham curling in a free kick for Stubing to bundle over the line, a pelvic thrust putting the visitors in their own time warp. The horror show may have continued for the Uni side, with Edwards, Smith and Graham keeping them pinned deep in their own half. However, to their credit, Flinders scored a late goal, a fine header catching Hahndorf napping at a corner with minutes remaining.

Man of the match was Callum Graham, the midfield maestro orchestrating much of Hahndorf‟s attacking verve, with great support from Leo Santangelo and Kayne Stubing, their work up front a constant threat to the Uni defence. A.Noble also drew special mention for his exceptional workrate during the first half.


Hahndorf Reserves

In a reverse score line to the First team match, the Hahndorf Reserves suffered their first defeat of the season, the sometimes spiteful match seeing the hosts squander an early lead to be eventually be over-run 5-2 by the visitors.

The Magpies started brightly, with Jordan Webber, Jesse Konstantinoff and Chris Sawers putting the Uni side on the back foot. Fine support in the midfield of David Grant, Gary Ledson, Colin Hibbert and Mike „the Wanderer” Lewington gave Hahndorf the edge in possession and it was a short time before their efforts brought the first goal.

Webber beat a Uni player and put in a deep cross to Sawers who headed back across to Konstantinoff and he fought hard to bundle to ball into goal. Hahndorf maintained the attacks through Bob Edwards, the cultured central defender turning back the years with a fine through ball to Konstantinoff, but he failed to find the target. Further opportunity presented itself with Sawers just firing wide and then Konstantinoff intercepted a short goal kick, but again the second goal remained elusive with the shot going over the bar.

Flinders woke up to the danger and began to force their way into the game, Hahndorf 'keeper Luke Jones making an excellent save from a one on one chance. Kyle Eglinton and Matt Medley provided defensive support and it was the former who created Hahndorf‟s second goal. A penetrating free kick found Grant and the experienced midfielder fired in a precise volley for a two-goal lead.

The visitors hit back with their first goal soon after and Hahndorf were forced to replace an injured Grant with Alex Chapman. Flinders began to assert themselves and equalised when the Magpies failed to hold possession from a goal kick. Further insult was added just before half time when the University side went ahead 3-2 after a solo run left Jones exposed.

Hahndorf brought on “the Enforcer” Rupert Lindon to stem the tide but the trend continued after half time with the visitors going close twice. The Magpies answered through Hibbert, who just missed after Konstantinoff fought hard to maintain pressure on the Uni defence. Medley then saved a certain goal with a goal line clearance as Ben “Beninho” Wells entered the fray.

Hahndorf had two good opportunities to score but the half time oranges had not improved their shooting and it was Flinders who made the most of their chances. A period of strong Uni play resulted in the visitors‟ fourth as Hahndorf struggled to control the midfield play. Chapman made some good plays but Hahndorf were unable to find the target when it counted. Eglinton went closest, a long curling free kick hitting the crossbar with the University custodian an anxious spectator.

Flinders added salt to the wound late on with a fifth goal and with a minute remaining could have had a sixth after a bit of petulance from the Magpie keeper resulted in a free kick close in, the chance going high and wide of goal.

Best on the day was Kyle Eglinton, a solid defensive display bolstered by his free kick deliveries. Jess Konstantinoff also provided a high point with his industrious work on the front line and Chapman showed a promising future with his time on the pitch.

In other results, the Div 4 Cs fought out a tight contest to be pipped 2-1 by Flinders University and Chris Hyde got on the scoreboard in the Div 5 Cs 3-1 loss to BOSA.

Next week is a cup round with the First team hosting the Southern Breakers on Saturday and the Reserves playing away to Bosna on Sunday. The Div 5 Cs are also away to local rivals Stirling and the Div 4 Cs have the week off.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

A New Season: Magpies off to a winning start

Hahndorf off to a winning start

Hahndorf began their 2010 season with a 1-0 win over Flinders University in the preliminary round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League Challenge Cup.

With the two teams also league rivals this year, the match was expected to be close, although the opening salvos put the Magpies on the back foot. Hahndorf suffered the first blow when Ash Parr had to be substituted following a crunching tackle and was replaced by Martin Busch, the big German making his official debut for the club.

Hahndorf reorganised themselves to match Flinders’ five man midfield, Matt Norris, Busch and Scott Taylor anchoring the defence behind Matt Medley, David Grant, Callum Graham, Jack Farrimond and Jordan Webber. Max Edwards and Kayne Stubing provided the striking power however Hahndorf were guilty of missing several clear chances to find the net during the first half. Hahndorf’s ‘keeper, Nathaniel Brooke ensured the misses weren’t costly, making a fine save to deny the visitors.

The match developed into an even affair, both sides looking to gain the upper hand but chances went astray as the respective defences did enough to keep parity at half time.

The Magpies lifted their game during the second stanza, Graham, Norris and Stubing leading by example as Hahndorf searched for a goal. Grant chased and harassed a defender to steal the ball but failed to get a meaningful shot away and the hosts were denied a couple of penalty appeals as the pressure mounted on the University side.

Farrimond almost broke the deadlock and the back of the net with a ferocious shot from just outside the area but the Flinders’ keeper threw himself full length to deflect the ball. A short rain shower greased the pitch and a few willing tackles entered to game as time drew on and the intensity lifted.

Brooke made several smart saves to keep Hahndorf’s sheet clean and was fortuitously aided by a disallowed goal, the University side scoring directly from an indirect free kick. The Magpies replied almost immediately, Graham putting in a searching shot after some excellent passing and a patient build up by the home team.

However, it was a long clearance by Brooke that led to Hahndorf taking the lead, Stubing swooping on the ball and unloading a rocket from long range to find the net. The stunning strike was just reward for the speedy forward, his endeavour a feature of the match. Graham almost doubled the advantage soon after, combining with Farrimond but just shooting wide of the mark.

Flinders University battled hard to find an equaliser and had the Magpies under pressure for many of the final minutes but some fine defending by Norris, Busch and Taylor kept the goal cupboard bare for the visitors.

The win was a great way for Hahndorf to kick off the season and get an early advantage over their league rivals. The 2010 edition of the Hahndorf Magpies includes a number of new faces, the club recruiting well during the off-season and the first serious game gave a glimpse a promising year.

Best on the day was Stubing, his strike a winner in any league, with the industrious Graham and impervious Norris also putting in fine performances.

Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves met league rivals Murray Bridge for their preliminary cup match and the Magpies put in an assured display to run out 3-1 winners. Playing at the riverside venue, the Magpies pushed the ball around well in the opening sequences to dominate possession but had trouble putting a score on the board.

Forwards Jesse Konstantinoff and Chris Hyde were busy early, getting good service from the midfield of Owen “The Black Pearl” Boyce, Colin Hibbert, Leo Santangelo and Jonathon Wirth. Konstantinoff was unlucky not to be awarded a penalty when the goalkeeper flattened him and a number of late tackles by the home team inflamed the visiting coaching staff on the sideline.

However, Hahndorf took the initiative as Andy Craig played a quick free kick to Wirth who raced down the wing before centring to Konstantinoff. The young striker flicked on to Hyde at the back post and the experienced forward had an easy tap in to put Hahndorf in front.

In defence, the Magpies held the Murray Bridge side to few chances, custodian James Nicholson keeping out any shots during the half as the youthful defence of Stuart Thomas, Craig, Bob Edwards and Kyle Eglinton made the hosts work hard for their opportunities.

During half time, Hahndorf made a few changes, bringing on Tim Staniford, Jake Verrall and Shaun Beham as the Magpies looked to retain control of the match. Hahndorf continued to create chances but could not find a second goal and paid the price for their profligacy when Murray Bridge equalised with a well-taken free kick with twenty-five minutes remaining.

The score galvanised the visitors and they responded with a series of attacks, Hibbert unleashing a thunderbolt that drew a full-length dive from the Bridge ‘keeper to deny the goal. However soon after, Santangelo capped a fine display with a surging run from halfway, exchanging one-twos with several Magpie players before finding the corner of the net with a scorching shot from the edge of the area.

Ten minutes from time, Hahndorf made sure of the result with their third goal, Konstantinoff rewarded for a terrific game, getting on the end of a good ball from Verrall, a clever pass from Edwards opening up the home defence.

The result was a fair reflection of the game and Hahndorf put together some fine flowing passes and possession soccer that should reward them in the coming season. Best on the day was the energetic Konstantinoff, followed by the hardworking Hibbert and the resolute Eglington.


The super C’s
The Super C’s continue to build towards the start of the season that begins on the 1st of May. Several trial games have given the “Italian Maestro”, player-coach Edmondo Palombo, reason to believe the team will be very competitive this season.

Wednesday, September 09, 2009

Flinders University V Hahndorf

Hahndorf capped off their year with a deserved 2-1 win over Flinders University, the season ending on a high for the Hills team and ensuring their fourth position in the South Australian Amateur Soccer League Third Division.

Hahndorf once again put the combination of Matt Norris and Kayne Stubing up front for the final match, supported by a midfield containing John Lawler, Steve Noble, Jack Farrimond and Ash Oosh. Nathaniel Brooke donned the gloves for the Magpies with Matt Medley, Mike lewington, Lee Stibbs and the wily fox, Wayne Forrester forming a defensive barrier before him.

The opening weekend of spring brought fine weather to the Flinders ground and Hahndorf wasted no time in stamping their authority on the game. Noble, Farrimond Forrester and Lewington presenting a solid spine that the University side had trouble breaking down while Norris and Stubing were putting themselves around in attack.

Hahndorf made several chances to open the scoring; an in swinging free kick by Stibbs causing concern for the hosts and soon after Oosh charged down the wing to cross a dangerous ball that was cleared to the predatory Farrimond, his driving shot just going over the bar.

Stubing showed his creativity with a sharp turn and a quick shot that also just missed the target as Hahndorf made the better opportunities and controlled the pace of the game. Brooke did not see too much of the ball, the Magpie defensive unit keeping shots to a minimum and Flinders best chance resulted in the ball flying over the bar.

In the shadow of half time, Hahndorf had a further chance, Norris not getting enough on his header after a quick free from Forrester and Stibbs nearly caught out the University side.

Hahndorf were forced into a substitution at the break, a niggling injury to Oosh paved the way for David Grant to display his experience and talent. The second half got off to a scrappy start with neither team able to make any meaningful advances, the half-time oranges not producing the cohesive play seen before the break.

However, a piece of Stubing brilliance broke open the game when he created a chance out of nothing, a quick turn and acceleration making space as he entered the penalty area and slotted the ball past the despairing ‘keeper. Soon after the Magpies doubled the advantage through Norris. Receiving the ball in an advanced position, Grant tore open the Flinders defence with an exquisite outside-of-the-boot cross, sending the ball diagonally to the back post. Norris ran in to complete the flowing move, driving his header into the net.

At 2-0 up, Hahndorf piled on the pressure and Stibbs almost added a third when his free kick passed just the wrong side of the post with the University ‘keeper rooted to the spot. With fifteen minutes remaining, the home side came to life when they won and converted a dubious penalty.

The score ignited the match and the intensity lifted with both teams sensing a change of momentum. The Hahndorf defence stood firm however and they brought on the “Black Pearl”, Owen Boyce to give them some impetus for the final minutes.

The visitors turned defence into attack through Stubing, the young forward drawing a sharp save from the Finders ‘keeper. Further pressure put the University side on the back foot and Noble was unlucky to see his effort just go over the target. The Flinders player’s frustrations were evident when Norris was needlessly fouled out wide. The centring free set up Lewnigton but he could not keep his powerful drive low enough to trouble the score sheet just before the final whistle called an end to the season.

Man of the Match was Noble, an industrious worker and fierce tackler; the experienced player has added some bite to the midfield this year. Also putting fine performances were Norris and Stubing, the two developing into a formidable strike force that Hahndorf will look to cultivate next year. The senior team finished the season entrenched in fourth position, but showing encouraging signs for coach Steve Handley’s development plans for next season.

Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves fought out a battling 1-1 draw to bring their season to conclusion, rounding out a good year for the Magpies as they finished in fifth spot.

Lacking a starting ‘keeper, the reserves turned to Luke Jones to shore up the position between the posts. After his great defensive duties last match, Rupert Lindon anchored the defence with Andy Craig, the full back positions filled by Ben “Beninho” Wells and “the Italian Maestro”, Edmondo Palombo. Kyle Eglinton, Tyrone Blunt, Gary Ledson and the Black Pearl, Owen Boyce, patrolled the midfield with strikers Chris Hyde and Brendan Kilpatrick looking to score.

The first half was a fairly even affair, both teams using the wide pitch to advantage. Hahndorf weathered some early Flinders possession, a reasonable breeze aiding the home side as they looked to use their quick forwards to get behind the Hahndorf defence.

Flinders found the free kicks going their way and had a good opportunity to open the scoring when they got an indirect free kick ten metres from goal. The wall charged down the shot however and the Magpies set about working the ball into attack.

Ledson, Blunt and Boyce combined to get Hahndorf into some attacking positions but the Flinders defence prevented any meaningful shots getting on target. Several corners presented Hahndorf with scoring opportunities, but awkward bounces and wayward shots kept the score sheet clean.

However, it did not remain that way for long, when a poorly cleared ball from Hahndorf was put back into the middle and a towering Flinders header put the ball in the net. Hahndorf responded with some nice flowing moves, but found their indecision around the penalty area allowed the hosts to regroup and defend in numbers.

After the half time break, Hahndorf lifted the intensity and went close to scoring several times. Hyde had a chance in the near post but lacked a firm touch to guide it past the ‘keeper and Blunt sent in numerous long throws that troubled the defence.

Sam Gowen entered the game in defence and Wells pushed forward as Hahndorf sought the equaliser. The hard work of the Magpies eventually paid off after a nice build up, “Beninho” Wells setting Ledson up with an inspired back-heel that opened up the defence. Ledson struck his shot true and beat the keeper to restore parity.

Hahndorf almost went ahead two minutes later when Blunt hit the post with his header as the Magpies went searching for a winner. Flinders replied with a couple of chances of their own but failed to find the target and Jones made some timely interceptions. Lindon was also firm in defence as Hahndorf rallied to find a second goal.

The Magpies continued to push forward through Wells, Ledson, Blunt and Hyde and were nearly rewarded when a shot rolled along the crossbar before being cleared. In the final minute, a long Blunt throw was flicked on by Craig before Hyde found the ‘keeper with a sharp headed effort.

All players put in a solid performance for the final match with more than a few able to claim best-on-ground honours. However, Player of the match was Lindon, putting another fine game in the heart of defence with the goal scorer Ledson close behind. Blunt was also prominent and Jones too had a good match after being put in a difficult and unfamiliar position at short notice.

The match completed a good season for the Reserves as they finished fifth place and also unearthed a few good players who could develop into first team regulars within a few years.

Wednesday, July 01, 2009

Round 9: Hahndorf V Flinders University

Hahndorf V Flinders University

The Magpies hosted Flinders University for the 9th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League, looking to keep the pressure on the three sides above them. However, Hahndorf failed to take their opportunities and found themselves on the wrong side of a 2-0 score line.

Todd Newman, Lee Stibbs and the wily fox, Wayne Forrester, lined up with Club Captain Matt Norris in defence, keen to repeat last weeks clean sheet with Mark McGrath in goal. Steve Noble returned from injury to take a place in midfield alongside Ash Oosh, Shaun Smith and the reliable Jon Lynn.

Up front, the experienced David Grant paired with Mike Lewington as both teams tested each other from the start. Several crunching tackles from both sides showed this was going to be a constant battle and the referee stepped in with a couple of cautions early to settle the teams down.

In the first half an hour the play was mainly in the Flinders half, the Magpies pressuring through Oosh, Noble and Grant to have the visitors on the back foot. Lewington had several opportunities to open the scoring, Forrester finding Grant from the back and Grant putting Lewington through on goal, but the shot was blocked by the Flinders defence.

Flinders also had some chances but with their aim also astray, McGrath was not troubled. Norris made a run forward and let rip with an ambitious attempt to score, but the shot passed just to the left of goal. Lynn and Forrester battled hard for the ball as Hahndorf tried to find an opening in the visitors defence. Often the Magpies would make good progress to the edge of the Flinders penalty area but then play would break down.

Flinders wrested back some of the initiative from Hahndorf late in the half and started to created more chances for themselves. A sharp through ball, forced McGrath into a rushed clearance and Flinders took full advantage, opening the scoring from the throw, minutes from half time.

After the break Hahndorf, battled to get into the game, Lynn and Newman prominent with Norris as the Magpies set about restoring parity. Both teams were up for the points but Flinders appeared to want it slightly more, getting to the ball before the Magpies on several occasions.

This was exemplified when Flinders scored their second, a late run at the near post getting a flashing header past McGrath after some good play by the visitors. However, Hahndorf continued to create and Lewington had two good opportunities to score, the best a one-on-one chance that the big forward hit over the crossbar when clear through on goal. The Magpies made a couple of substitutions, bringing on John Lawler and Brendan Kilpatrick for Oosh and Smith.

Kilpatrick continued his bustling form from the Reserves game and connected with cracking header from a corner that smashed into the crossbar and away to safety. The effort was to sum up the day for Hahndorf, battling well in the game and putting together some great moves but unable to get shots on target.

The Magpies fought to the end but ultimately could not find the combination to unlock the Flinders defence as time ran out. Best on the Day was the reliable Jon Lynn, with captain Matt Norris and Todd Newman putting in solid performances. The result leaves the Magpies in fourth position in the league and they will need to pick up points on the teams above them to have a chance at promotion.


Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves rallied from being two goals down late in the game to share the points in a 3-3 draw.

Nathaniel Brooke took his usual spot between the sticks as Hahndorf’s defence of Matt Medley, Andy Craig, Stuart Thomas and the” Italian Maestro” Edmondo Palombo found themselves under pressure early on.

Despite a star-studded midfield of Rupert Lindon, Tyrone Blunt, Gary Ledson and the “Black Pearl” Owen Boyce, the Magpies lacked cohesion and Flinders pushed forward at every opportunity. Forwards Brendan Kilpatrick and Chris Hyde worked hard for possession as Hahndorf struggled to find their rhythm and had few sights on goal.

Flinders opened the scoring with a well-taken shot that gave Brooke no chance, the opposition forward unpicking the Hahndorf defence. Down a goal the Magpies slowly dragged their play up to standard and began to push the ball around and create some chances of their own.

Ledson and Blunt worked the engine room of the midfield and linked with Hyde, the experienced forward laying off short passes as Hahndorf’s confidence grew. With minutes remaining in the half, Boyce split the Flinders defence with a precision ball to Ledson and he strode into the penalty area with only the ‘keeper to beat. Ledson had the Flinders custodian grasping at air as he shimmied his way past and stroked the ball into the empty net.

Emerging from the half time break at 1-1, Hahndorf felt they were back in the game and passed the ball well. Lindon and Boyce worked the flanks and Hyde dropped deeper to pick up the ball. However, the Magpies could not get a sight on goal and paid the price when a high ball from Flinders let in their forward who smashed a shot past Brooke.

Luke Jones was brought on for Kilpatrick and later an injury to Lindon resulted in Josh Watson taking to the field. Boyce also made way for the “Albino Yeti”, Lachlan McQueen, the enthusiastic substitute keen to get into the action. Hahndorf pushed for an equaliser but again they were punished when a slip in the back line gave Flinders a third goal.

With twenty minutes remaining, Hahndorf still had belief and a corner by Jones brought reward, Craig putting in a header that Hyde cleverly deflected past the Flinders ‘keeper. The intensity lifted as the Magpies went searching for a third score, the team pushing forward at every opportunity. The pressure built and after a series of Magpie corners the ball was forced into the net, a stab by Ledson wrong-footing most players and Blunt seeming to get a toe on it before it went it.

With five minutes remaining both teams threw everything at getting the winning goal but time was to prevent any further addition to the score. Best on the day was Gary Ledson with two goals and an industrious battle in midfield, and another who played well was Brendan Kilpatrick, showing intensity for the ball. The result leaves the Hahndorf Reserves in fifth spot on the table but only six points from the top midway through the season.

Next week, the Magpies are again at home for the visit of Adelaide University, sure to be another tightly fought contest with all teams competitive this year. Hahndorf players will be donning yellow armbands in their match against Adelaide University on Saturday in support of Cancer Council SA’s Call to Arms campaign.

Call To Arms is Cancer Council’s annual national event to raise funds and awareness of men’s cancers.

Sporting clubs are invited to participate by nominating a day in July to hold a Call To Arms match where players wear a yellow armband in a show of support to men who have survived cancer, those currently facing the cancer fight and to remember mates who have lost their lives to cancer.

Funds raised will help prevent and detect cancers in men, find new treatments, as well as support men in need by funding the Cancer Council’s important cancer research, education and support programs.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Hahndorf V Flinders University

On a sunny Saturday afternoon, the Hahndorf Magpies were unable to overcome two early goals, eventually going down to Flinders University 3-1.

In the final game of a very long season, Hahndorf got off to a shaky start with custodian Nathaniel Brooke and defenders Tyrone Blunt, Todd Newman and Micheal Stevens under pressure. Flinders University twice exploited some non-existent marking in the area of the pitch to rifle in two goals in the first five minutes.

Regaining their composure, Hahndorf fought back in the midfield, John Lawler, Martin Moran, Craig Cottle, Stephen Ness and Kyle Eglinton looking to establish some authority as they moved the ball forward. It was a hard fought battle in the middle and strikers Ash Parr and club captain Matt Norris found their chances few and far between, with the middle third of the pitch containing most of the action.

Flinders almost went further ahead with a period of sustained pressure that saw them hit the cross bar from a free kick and soon after drew Brooke into some excellent saves. Hahndorf fought back through a blistering shot by Parr, the Uni ‘keeper powerless to hold onto the ball and it arced toward goal. Unfortunately for the Magpies it was cleared of the line by a late arriving defender.

The attempt spurred Hahndorf on and they began to play some better football with Newman and Stevens proving to be very solid at the back. However, the Magpies could not make their possession count and they went into the halftime break rueing their tardy start.

Hahndorf began the second period of play in a positive fashion with Norris running down a through ball and setting up Lawler, but his shot was wayward. Lawler soon had another effort but again could not keep the ball on target from distance.

At the other end Brooke pulled off some acrobatic stops as Flinders looked to increase their lead. Ness battled hard for the ball all game and made several important interceptions before he was substituted with Paul Charles. As Charles settled into the game Uni had a period of dominance but the Magpie defence held firm and Hahndorf slowly wrested possession back.

The tide looked top be turning for the home side as they built up their play and they were given a solid opportunity when the Argentinian Wiz, Moran, was upended in the area, the foul getting extra points from spectators for its South American flamboyance. Cottle stepped up to take the penalty and converted with his usual assured style to make the score 2-1.

The match lifted its intensity and for the next ten minutes it was ended to end action before Flinders added their third. Brooke punched a crossed ball clear but it fell to the visitors and despite Brooke parrying the intitial shot, the ball was poked back into goal, making it 3-1 to the Uni side.

For the remaining fifteen minutes, the Magpies tried to restore parity with Moran and Blunt having a couple of chances along with Parr and Norris. Mark “Studio” Selsey replaced Lawler as late-season coach Edmundo Palumbo added fresh legs in the final minutes.

Charles had a chance for glory but fired over the bar and the skipper did likewise soon after as Hahndorf continued their late onslaught but it was to no avail as the Magpies season was brought to an end.

Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves continued their late season revival with a well-earned 2-1 victory over the Flinders University reserves, a brace to Jack Goodfellow doing the job for the home team.

Hahndorf were determined to put up a better effort than when the two teams met previously, the 6-1 drubbing a low point in a challenging season. Danny Pace donned the gloves for the Magpies with a rear guard of veteran Andy Craig complimented by the youngsters Ben Wells and Matt Medley. They worked hard for the opening minutes as Uni got off on the front foot, but the trio denied the visitors any real chances.

Hahndorf began to work the ball through midfield, with Alex Oldham, Vin Chow and Luke Jones linking up nicely. Captain Rupert Lindon and the Albino Yeti, Lachlan McQueen, worked on their defensive side early on to close down the Uni’s forward forays.

Up front Mark “Studio” Selsey and young Jack Goodfellow made themselves available as Hahndorf put together some sweeping moves and sought to get the advantage of kicking down the slope. Hahndorf moved the ball well into the last third of the pitch and had several opportunities to score, with Chow, Oldham and Jones all going close before a quick free from Craig also went just wide.

The endeavour shown by Hahndorf upset a few of the Flinders’ players and drew some irritated banter and a few willing challenges, however Hahndorf continued to push hard for the ball and were not taking any backward steps.

Hahndorf’s breakthrough occurred just before half time after a period of sustained pressure. Working the ball down the wing, Craig played a 1-2 with Chow before sending in a dipping cross that moved away from the Flinders ‘keeper. He failed to gather the ball cleanly and it spilled for Goodfellow to place into goal from ten metres, giving the Magpies the lead and a great finish to the half.

Hahndorf then got off to a brilliant start in the second half, adding another goal within five minutes of the kick-off. Pace drove the ball forward and a nod on by Lindon sent Goodfellow clear. The spritely forward turned inside his marker before a jink sent the goalkeeper the wrong way and Goodfellow slotted the ball home.

Despite being two goals up, Hahndorf continued to look for more goals and played with assurety. McQueen was substituted for Andrew Kenny and together with Oldham and Jones, combined with the forward line to create chances.

Flinders fought back and managed to get on the board while Hahndorf were temporarily reduced to ten men. Medley was receiving some medical attention for a hit to the head when Uni beat the offside trap to score. The goal set up an exciting final fifteen minutes as Flinders tried to find an equaliser but found the Magpie defence in a miserly mood, with Brad Francis replacing Wells.

Francis had a great chance to seal the game with minutes left but having been gifted the ball from ten metres out, sent the ball into the upper reaches of the gums and scared the native fauna. A final attack by Flinders was well covered by Pace and Hahndorf celebrated their win with relish as the final whistle was blown.

It has been a difficult year for the Hahndorf Magpies, the twelve team league has been very competitive and early season injuries coupled with a new squad put them on the back foot for much of the year. However, the season has produced some promising young talent, in both Firsts and Reserves, and next year Hahndorf will be looking to build upon this base when they take on Division 3 next season.

Monday, July 07, 2008

Hahndorf rue final minutes

Flinders University V Hahndorf
In an exciting encounter that had the fans on the edge of their seats, Hahndorf ultimately let Flinders Uni off the hook as two late goals by the hosts resulted in a 3-3 final score.
The SAASL11th round of Division 2 pitted the 4th placed Uni against an improving Hahndorf unit looking to pull itself up the league table. With injuries again a concern for Hahndorf, Coach Peter Cottle gave starts to Kyle Eglinton and Stephen Ness on the flanks, with youngster Jack Farrimond put into central midfield.
The defence centred on the settled line up of Danny Pace in goal with veteran Andy Craig, the in-form Tyrone Blunt and experienced Wayne Forrester providing cover. Midfielders Ash Parr and Craig Cottle supplied the linking balls to forwards John Lawler and the Argentinian “Wiz”, Martin Moran.
Flinders got off to a confident start, pushing the ball around well on their home turf and showed a few genuine threats in the final third of the ground. The Magpie defence weathered the early storm and Hahndorf began to push the ball wide to Ness and Eglinton with support from Parr and Cottle.
Hahndorf drew reward for their endeavour with a sustained move involving five players that moved the ball across both sides of the pitch. The penultimate pass arrived with Cottle and he fired in a dipping cross for Lawler to head at goal. The Flinders’ goalkeeper stretched to prevent to ball going inside the post but could not hold the ball. Following up, Lawler won the loose ball and bundled into the net to the joy of the visiting faithful.
Flinders Uni bounced back with some attacking moves but often over hit their passes and they were forced to take long shots as the Magpies worked hard to deny them space near goal. Parr and Farrimond applied pressure to the midfield and Cottle was able to release Ness and Moran with regularity.
With fifteen minutes left in the half, Flinders were handed a goal as Pace parried a good shot. In an attempt to clear the ball, a defender belted the ball against a team mate and it ricocheted into the Magpie goal. The score was a setback for Hahndorf but they battled on for the rest of the half, looking to add to their tally.
With scores locked at 1-1, Hahndorf continued to push their higher placed opposition after half time. Ness was in outstanding form and worked well with Cottle and Craig to forge attacks down the flank while also putting in his defensive duty. Blunt was also having a fine game, intercepting the Uni attacks and distributing the ball to midfield and forward options.
Cottle commandeered the midfield, working well with Moran and Lawler as Hahndorf were looking the better team. Despite this, Uni remained a threat but their wayward shooting let them down. In perhaps a lucky break for the Magpies, when Flinders did get the ball into the net it was disallowed for a foul on Pace.
Twenty minutes into the half, Hahndorf struck a second goal. Employing some Route One football, Pace launched the ball forward and it was poorly dealt with by the Uni defence. Moran latched onto the long ball and pushed it past the advancing ‘keeper just before he was cleaned up by a desperate defender. The ball finished in the net with Moran on his back, and he needed medical attention before he could retake the field.
At 2-1, Hahndorf were full of belief and needed to be as Flinders started to throw players forward searching for a second goal. They missed several chances as the intensity picked up and both teams were desperate for possession. Hahndorf made a change, bringing on Vin Chow for Farrimond who had battled hard all game.
With the play going from end to end, Hahndorf looked to have sealed the three points when Cottle added a third with a great strike directly from a corner, the ball curling inside the far post. The Magpies were jubilant but in the remaining ten minutes faced a determined University side. Both teams made substitutions, Hahndorf bringing on the raw running of “the Albino Yeti”, Lachlan McQueen and Uni throwing a towering beanpole up front.
Hahndorf were defending deeply as Flinders pumped long, high balls into the Magpie penalty area and with minutes left the hosts scored, the tall forward getting enough on his header to breech the Magpie goal. Uni continued to attack, throwing everyone forward and gained a corner. Again Hahndorf could not counter the tall Uni player and with his header they equalised with seconds to go.
A shocked Hahndorf then had a chance to score in the final few seconds but with Parr putting the ball in the net, the referee found a push off the ball and ruled out the goal.
The result was a bitter sweet moment for the Magpies, playing well to lead their more fancied hosts all game but falling just short of getting a valuable three points. In a match where the Magpies gave their all, best player votes went to Cottle, Blunt and Ness, all outstanding on the day. Hahndorf have continued to improve and no doubt will upset a many of their rivals as the second half of the season gets underway.

Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves struggled to cope with form and injuries in the first half and conceded six goals but redeemed themselves with the only score of the second to finish 6-1 down.
The Magpie Reserves went into the match with regular goalkeeper Nathaniel Brooke and a young defence of Ben Wells, Matt Medley, Captain Rupert Lindon and Sam Gowan. In midfield, Andrew Kenny, Luke Jones, Angus Coulls and Lachlan “the Albino Yeti” McQueen battled for control but found the wet, wide pitch a little slick and struggled to hold on to the ball.
Young forward Jack Goodfellow joined Vin Chow up front and they had a few opportunities but could not put the score on the board. Uni opened the scoring after a back pass was not adequately dealt with and fell two goals down soon after when Brooke was caught out of position, allowing a simple tap in.
Hahndorf tried to put Flinders under pressure but the bounce of the ball did them no favours as their hosts hit long balls wide and forward looking to exploit the height advantage they had up front.
Jones smashed a free kick from distance that the Uni ‘keeper struggled to hold but the ball was cleared before Hahndorf’s forwards could put in a challenge.
At the other end everything was going the host’s way, a cross from out wide dropped into goal and a fourth added when a great double save by Brooke saw the loose ball knocked in. A further two ended in the Hahndorf net as the half concluded.
Rising from the previous half’s carnage, the Magpie Reserves applied themselves and started to make inroads to the Uni goal. Chow won a ball from a corner and skipped past a defender but blasted his shot over the bar.
Substitutes Edmondo Palombo and Michael Stevens, the latter making his return after a long injury spell, added some assured touches and Hahndorf retained some midfield possession.
Goodfellow showed some nice touches and beat several opponents in one of many forays forward for the Magpies and was rewarded for his persistence with the only score of the half. A good build up through Stevens sent the ball wide and deep where Goodfellow won the challenge. Opening up the goal as he moved toward the middle, Goodfellow struck the ball with the outside of his foot to beat the ‘keeper at the near post.
The goal was a just reward for the Reserves as they put their best foot forward in the second half. Best on the day were Lindon, Medley and Goodfellow.
There is a feast of football with a triple header on next week at Pine Avenue. Hahndorf will be looking to put a score past the Cougars at the Magpies Nest and the Super C’s host the second placed Sturt Marion. Action starts at 11.30am.