2013 Round 7:Hahndorf Magpies V Flinders University

It was bottom verses top as Hahndorf and Flinders University battled the elements and each other before the visitors emerged with a 1-5 win after mastering the difficult conditions at the Pine Avenue Arena.

The first day of winter defied the warming climate change trend, bringing lashing rain showers amid temperatures in the lower teens and the prospect of the postponement of the clash on the sodden pitch.

However, thanks to years of hard work by the club, led by grounds man Rob Kilpatrick, and the cancellation of the Reserves fixture, the referee was happy to start the match after a thorough inspection. Surface water occupied some sections of the ground but the opening minutes showed some slick moves by both teams as they adjusted to the pace of the pitch.

The Magpies retained the same starting formation as last week, with Jarrod Kennedy in goal behind veteran Stuart Thomas, Matt Filmer, Steve Ness and the “Swiss Maestro”, Sam Putallaz. Ben Stewart, Joe Thomas, David Grant and Sol Scopazzi filled the midfield while the forward line blended youth and experience with Nathan Roennfeldt and Chris Hyde.

The visitors almost opened the scoring after a series of passes put them within sight of goal but a great stop on the line by Grant was cleaned up by Kennedy. The Magpies’ custodian looked to be in for a busy afternoon minutes later when he made a terrific double save from close range and then escorted a header as it passed over the crossbar.

The pressure on the Hahndorf goal was relieved through a neat move up the flank and Scopazzi sent a good ball to Roennfeldt but the striker was wide with his shot. Flinders answered with a number of intricate passes to create a good opportunity but Kennedy was again brilliant in saving a certain goal. The visitors were adjusting to the conditions better than the Magpies and errant passes and ricochets seemed to fall University’s way.

Hahndorf found some meaningful possession and a foul led to Putallaz sending in a sharp free kick that Roennfeldt flicked toward goal but the University ‘keeper was quick to react and pushed the ball wide. A series of corners to Hahndorf kept the pressure on Flinders but the Magpies could not break through. The good period of play continued with Roennfeldt and Hyde combining well before a searching ball sent across the penalty area went unclaimed by the Magpies.

A free to Flinders just beyond the 18-yard box presented a good chance and Kennedy produced an outstanding save, throwing himself high and wide to tip the shot over the bar. Hahndorf were tardy in marking up for the resultant corner and the visitors played it short, sending a deflected cross ballooning to goal where it hit the back post and bounced straight to a Flinders player who tapped in from four metres.

University doubled their lead minutes later with a neat pattern of play that had the Magpies sliced open at the back and the move was finished with a fine shot that found the inside of the far post. The Magpies regrouped and a Grant effort forced a save before another Putallaz free kick had the University ‘keeper scrambling to keep out the slippery effort.

Scopazzi, Grant and Hyde combined well together as the Magpies put some of their best moves hitherto in the match. Stewart and J Thomas were battling well in the trying conditions but a lapse in defence led to Flinders scoring the third goal. A header looped into the corner of goal after a cross was allowed from out wide.

The Magpies responded in the best possible way, Ness driving from defence to pinpoint Hyde with a precise pass. Hyde played a sublime flick to wrong foot the University defence and Roennfeldt latched on to the through ball. The Ruud van Nistelrooy doppelganger dashed into the penalty area and took the ball around the ‘keeper before slotting the ball in with his left foot.

The remainder of the half saw chances at either end with Scopazzi and Hyde combining to put an enticing ball into the penalty area but the Magpies were unable to capitalise. Flinders tried to stretch their lead with an audacious lob that just cleared the target before the referee signalled the end of an entertaining and rain-soaked half.

Regular showers continued to visit the Hahndorf ground and the second stanza was played in similar conditions to the first, the pitch remarkably showing little deterioration over the course of the match. Flinders held a possessive advantage over the Magpies but Ness, Filmer and Stewart ensured competition for the ball was fierce.

Surprisingly, Putallaz struggled with his usually precise set pieces, putting a free from the edge of the penalty area over the target with the Magpies looking to redress the goal balance. Injury then struck Captain Grant and he needed to be replaced with Simon Gale as the match entered a period of to and fro with neither side able to create a clear chance.

The run of the ball was not favouring the hosts and several plays broke down as passes did not quite find their target and loose balls seemed to gravitate to the Flinders’ players. Kennedy remained a pillar of strength for the Magpies with some inspiring saves making a mockery of the slippery conditions and keeping University at bay.

Mitch Miller and Tim Staniford entered the match to cover a niggling injury and tiring legs as the visitors held the majority of play but wasted several chances with shots high over the crossbar. Ness replied for Hahndorf, advancing to latch on to a free kick but his shot was deflected for a corner. Seconds later he was again on hand to pick up a loose ball that he fired over the crossbar from an acute angle.

Miller was eager in the Magpie forward line and harried the ball away from a University defender. Scopazzi pounced on the crumbs and drove a fierce shot that scraped the crossbar with the Flinders’ ‘keeper beaten. The match entered the final ten minutes and some sloppy marking allowed a determined Flinders’ run to break into the box and a well placed shot gave Kennedy no chance as the ball found the corner of goal.

Minutes later the visitors added a fifth, a clearance from a cross was miscued and fell to a University player on the edge of the box. He drove it past a tired defence to emphatically put the match beyond the Magpies.

The hosts did not give up however and in the dying minutes Gale and Staniford exchanged passes in a flowing move to force a Hahndorf corner. The Magpies held the ball in the danger zone and it fell to Hyde, the experienced striker pivoting and just shooting wide.

The result was disappointing for the Magpies as they were competitive against the top-placed University side but could not stem the tide in trying conditions. Jarrod Kennedy produced some outstanding saves once again for Hahndorf and deservedly took the Man of the Match honours with his exceptional game. Others with fine efforts included Chris Hyde who wound back the years with his classy touches and Nathan Roennfeldt showing his potential in an energetic display and fine goal.

Hahndorf now have a week off to regroup before travelling to the end of the freeway for the visit to Murray Bridge, the two teams currently at the wrong end of the table and looking for a positive result.

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.

2013 Round 5: Hahndorf Magpies V Hazara

Hahndorf showed tremendous spirit in a highly competitive match against Hazara, with Captain David Grant leading by example and scoring a brace of goals in the entertaining 2-2 draw

The Magpies were looking for an improved performance after last week’s disappointing match and they began with Jarrod Kennedy in goal commanding a defensive line containing veteran Stuart Thomas, Steve Ness, Matt Filmer and the ‘Swiss Maestro’, Sam Putallaz. The quartet were soon in the action with Hazara starting swiftly to get the first shot at goal but it went straight to Kennedy.

Hahndorf’s midfield answered the challenge through Solomon Scopazzi who rounded off a good move and hit the target but also found the Hazara ‘keeper. Kennedy was again in good position to stop sharp drive from the visiting forward before a good move from the Magpies moved the ball down the flank and in-form Ben Stewart shot over.

The game settled for a period as the two sides matched up, ‘El Capitano’ David Grant and Nat Stewart working the middle of the park to get forwards Garry Parsons and Nathan Roennfeldt into the match.. Continued possession by Hahndorf opened up good opportunities but both Scopazzi and Parsons directed their headers over the crossbar.

The Magpies were pushing the visitors but failing to convert their play into goals and their profligacy was put into sharp focus when Hazara mounted two quick successive attacks. Repelling the first, Kennedy was unable to stop a well-placed Hazara shot from finding the corner of goal to take the lead.

A chance to equalise fell to Roennfeldt after a good build up involving Scopazzi and Parsons but the opportunity was headed wide. A free kick just outside the penalty area presented another opening but the kick was well covered by the Hazara goalkeeper. A defensive give away by Hahndorf was almost punished but the visiting forward blasted high over the bar from a good position.

The Magpie back line was coping well with the smaller, faster Hazara attackers, Ness and Filmer well-organised to nullify the threats and Putallaz getting in some well timed tackles on the flanks. The play was entertaining for the neutral observer, the action going end to end with a sprinkling of shots to keep the respective ‘keepers honest.

Hahndorf ended the half with a goal attempt going well over the crossbar, a fitting summation of their game as they had plenty of the play but were unable to make it count on the scoreboard.

The Magpies brought on Simon Gale at the break and opened the half in encouraging fashion, gaining a free kick just outside the penalty box. Again the attempt at goal was astray but the Magpies held the ball in Hazara’s defensive third and earned a corner.

Putallaz drove in the kick to Grant who flicked the ball on and it defected its way through a forest of legs to end up in the net to the delight of the Magpies. With parity restored Hahndorf found they could not rest on their laurels as Hazara forced a brilliant save from Kennedy, the Magpies’ custodian tipping a goal-bound free kick over the crossbar.

A minute later Kennedy was again in great position to rescue Hahndorf, grasping a shot from close in that had the striker dreaming of the winning goal as it left his boot. Hahndorf steadied through Ness, the experienced Magpie defusing the attacking thrusts of the visitors and finding outlets with some composed passing.

Roennfeldt remained a thorn in the side of Hazara, the Van Nistelroy look-alike harassing the Hazara defence at every opportunity and winning the majority of his challenges. A clever piece of play saw him strip a defender of the ball but unfortunately he could not find Parsons in the penalty area with the centring pass.

The match was a developing into titanic battle as the contest went from box to box and an attack by Hazara eventually found the net, an angled shot going across Kennedy to just nestle inside the goal upright. Hahndorf immediately tried to hit back and nearly succeeded when Roennfeldt latched onto a Parsons’ flick on but pushed his lob narrowly wide of goal with the ‘keeper beaten.

Youngster Mitch Miller made an appearance with fifteen minutes remaining as the Magpies increased the tempo in their search for an equaliser. Ness continued to dominate his position and sent Grant on a run down the flank. The Scot rolled back the years with some mesmerising footwork and earned a free just outside the penalty area. However, disappointingly the resultant kick went just high of the intended target.

Ness made a fine run and was brought down, the foul giving Hahndorf another free in a good position. Putallaz struck a powerful drive and it deflected off a defender to give the Magpies a corner. Thomas looked in prime position to capitalise on the corner kick but a push on him went unseen despite the shouts for a penalty from the vocal home support.

With time running down, Hahndorf mounted a concerted assault on the Hazara goal and probed for an opening in the visitors defence. A series of corners nearly brought the goal but Hazara repelled the attack with almost all the Hahndorf players committed in the forward third.

The Magpies retained possession through Scopazzi who danced with the ball on the edge of the penalty area as numerous Magpies queued up in the box. After what seemed an eternity, Scopazzi found the space he was looking for and fired in a head high ball. Grant reacted first and attacked the inviting cross to power a header past the static defenders and into the net before wheeling away in joyous celebration.

Play had barely restarted before the referee blew the whistle for full time, the Magpies finding the equaliser with a minute remaining in the match. The result was just reward for the Magpies, the team never giving up and putting together a fine team effort. Best on the day for Hahndorf was Steve Ness, the reliable player instrumental in fortifying the defence and blunting the Hazara attack. Ben Stewart, Matt Filmer, David Grant, Sam Putallaz and Jarrod Kennedy were also in the frame with their outstanding endeavours during the match.


Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves were unlucky not to share the points in a hard fought contest, Hazara scoring in the 88th minute to secure a 1-2 win.

The visitors got off to a dream start when a miscued back pass was pounced on by the quick Hazara forward and he made no mistake in the one-on-one with Hahndorf goalkeeper Blake Horton.

The hosts regained their composure with Luke Jones, Bob Edwards, Tim Staniford and Johannes Edler adjusted to the sharp play of the visitors. Several chances went begging for the Magpies before a penalty gave Jones a chance to equalise. The bustling Magpie made it two goals in consecutive matches with a blistering penalty kick that gave the ‘keeper no chance and threatened the integrity of the goal net.

The Hahndorf midfield of Scott Schubert, Graham Philips, Hamish Vickers and Harvey Watson battled hard to contain the flighty visitors, their movement causing some concern in the Magpie camp while Aaron Fiora and Michael Driver provided some attacking focus for the home team.

Half time saw Brendan Kilpatrick and Naite Hider enter the fray as both teams sought the opening to goal. Staniford was in fine form throughout the match to close down the Hazara attacks, with Edler and Jones providing a solid barrier. Smart organisation by Edwards often caught the visitors in an offside position as play went end to end.

Hider went close to breaking the deadlock several times but more than once was he restricted by some subtle shirt pulling. Edler and Hider had good shots saved as the match looked to remain at parity. However, heartbreak was to befall the Magpies when Hazara finally broke through the defence and scored with less than two minutes remaining.

It was a good performance from Hahndorf, battling hard all day and they were deserving of a share of the points before the late lapse in concentration. Best on the day for the Magpies was Tim Staniford, his tireless running and work rate an inspiration.

Next week Hahndorf travel to the hallowed turf of the Adelaide University playing grounds in the north parklands to take on the competitive Uni Blacks.

2013 Round 4: Torrens Valley Rams V Hahndorf Magpies

The Hills derby between Torrens Valley and Hahndorf was a hard fought and often scrappy affair with a single goal separating the sides at games end.

Hahndorf elected to change formation this week with Brendan Kilpatrick, Stuart Thomas and the "Swiss Maestro", Sam Putallaz anchoring the defence in front of custodian Jarrod Kennedy. Steve Ness, Ben Stewart, Hamish Vickers, Sol Scopazzi and “el Capitano” David Grant packed out the midfield while Mitch Miller and Nathan Roennfeldt roamed the frontline.

Torrens Valley started with a rush and their physical approach unsettled the Magpies as the two teams sought to gain an initial ascendancy. A few glimpses of goal fell to the hosts but they did not overly trouble Kennedy. A long throw to Vickers gave Hahndorf their first chance but his shot was deflected around the goalpost.

The Rams started to look for their centre forward with long balls over the back of the Magpie defence and several times Kennedy made excellent saves to keep the scoreboard blank. Hahndorf tried to build up their attacks and Stewart pounced on a loose ball to fire in a low shot that drew a fine save from the Torrens Valley ‘keeper.

The hosts continued to pump long balls over the midfield, effectively negating Hahndorf’s ball players and putting the stretched defence under increasing pressure. Kennedy completed a couple of great one-on-one saves and then acrobatically tipped a speculative lob over the crossbar to maintain parity.

A free just outside the penalty area gave Putallaz a sight at goal and he beat the wall with a fine curling shot but the Rams custodian made a good stop low to his left. The Rams answered with another long ball into the frontline that the Torrens Valley forward wasted with a shot wide of goal.

Play was fairly disjointed with both teams often exchanging possession due to errant passing and a general lack of ball control. A rare string of passes saw Hahndorf move the ball across the park and Grant put a fine cross for Stewart, the hirsute midfielder powering a header just over the crossbar.

Kennedy denied the hosts with another fingertip save pushing a long-range effort over the bar before Torrens Valley gained a free just wide of the penalty area. The free kick was swung in and under pressure, Kennedy punched it clear but it was immediately fired back in and the Magpies’ ‘keeper deflected onto the crossbar. The ball bounced around in the danger zone before a header looped the ball over the melee and it fell into the goal.

The goal emboldened the Rams and they tried to add to the score but Hahndorf managed to resist a period of pressure despite continuing to make poor choices with their options and passing. The scrappy nature of the match was underlined when a Magpie long ball was contested by two Torrens Valley, the pair taking each other out to leave Stewart with a quick stab at goal that the advancing ‘keeper smothered.

The first half drew to an end with the Rams holding the lead but save for the outstanding efforts of the respective goalkeepers, few players on either side had performed well.

Hahndorf made a few adjustments during the break and emerged with more drive and purpose. Miller battled up front to beat two players and then sent a dangerous ball across the penalty area but Hahndorf were unable to capitalise on his good play.

The Rams hit back and were denied a clear scoring chance by a great saving tackle by Stewart and soon after Kennedy was once again supreme in a one-on-one situation. Hahndorf wrested back possession and enjoyed a good period of play, with Miller getting about in the forward line and Stewart, Scopazzi and Ness starting to impose themselves on the match.

The Magpies brought on Simon Gale to add some drive and the visitors pressed for the equaliser but despite creating some promising openings, shots on target were elusive. A few Rams players began to dish out some late tackles but it took several consecutive incidents before the referee finally awarded Hahndorf a free and cautioned the offender.

The hosts missed a golden opportunity to extend their lead but their forward blazed over the goal when he should have done better. Ness started to play a more defensive role and shored up the Magpies backline to relieve Kennedy of his workload. Scopazzi benefited from a good, flowing move by Hahndorf, Stewart, Putallaz and Grant involved, but his effort was blocked by the Rams’ ‘keeper.

A forward thrust by the visitors presented a great chance when Roennfeldt was taken out in the area and a penalty was awarded. Scopazzi struck the ball powerfully to send the ‘keeper the wrong way but the ball cannoned off the left upright before zooming across goal and hitting the other post and bouncing away to safety.

Despite the setback, Hahndorf pushed hard for a score and Torrens Valley were feeling the pressure, making several reckless tackles that did not get the cautions they warranted. The final ten minutes saw the Magpies laying siege to the Rams’ goal but they could not find the net despite the pressure. A corner for the Magpies put the ball in the six-yard box and a blatant push on Stewart went unpunished to the disbelief of players and the travelling faithful.

As the minutes ebbed away, the Magpies continued to knock on the Torrens Valley door but ultimately they ran out of time. The result was a bitter disappointment for Hahndorf, however they took some solace from a much-improved second half performance with Steve Ness claiming the Magpies Man of the Match honours. Close behind were Jarrod Kennedy and Ben Stewart, both players continuing to lead by example this season.



Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves notched up their first win of the season with a 2-3 victory against fellow Hills side Torrens Valley.

The Magpies made the most of the first half with their young team interspersed with a few battle hardened veterans. Blake Horton took his spot between the sticks with James Stratfold, Tim Staniford, Bob Edwards and Graham Philips presenting an experienced forward line.

Hahndorf largely took control from the start, Scott Schubert, Johannes Edler, Luke Jones and Harvey Watson pulling the strings in the Magpie engine room while Naite Hider and Hamish Vickers provided a focal point up front.

Jones opened the scoring for the Magpies, hammering in a cracker of a goal that will not leave him short of conversation for many weeks. Hahndorf extended their lead through Hider, the youngster catching the goalkeeper out with a delightful lob.

Jones almost added to his personal tally with a booming clearance from near half way that had the Torrens Valley ‘keeper scrambling to tip the bouncing ball over the goal. The Magpies went 3-0 up when Schubert opened his account for the season, the midfielder having hit the woodwork a few times in previous matches. The Magpies ended the half in imperious form and were cruising with their comfortable lead.

To their credit, Torrens Valley took the match back to the Magpies after the break. The Magpies made some changes during the second half with Aaron Fiora, Michael Driver and Jackson McGuire entering the match and while this may have upset the rhythm the Magpies enjoyed, the hosts were determined to make up for their poor first half.

The match provided a tense finish as Torrens Valley scored twice to put Hahndorf under increasing pressure, the hosts sensing a dramatic draw or win was on the cards. However, despite at times some frantic defending, the Magpies triumphed to take the three points. Best on the day for Hahndorf was Luke Jones with his fine strike and having an excellent match overall.

Next week the Magpies return to the Pine Avenue Arena where they will take on Hazara.

Round 16: Hahndorf V USC Lion

Hahndorf V USC Lion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reserves

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

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

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

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

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

Super Cs

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

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

Round 13: Hahndorf V Comets

Hahndorf Magpies V Adelaide Comets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reserves Cup 3rd Round

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Round 12: Vipers V Hahndorf Magpies

Vipers V Hahndorf

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reserves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 5: Hahndorf V Southern Breakers

Hahndorf V Southern Breakers

In the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd Division, Hahndorf atoned for last seasons Cup loss with a convincing 4-1 win against the Southern Breakers, model forward Leo Santangelo bagging a brace for the Magpies.

A reshuffled line up to accommodate injuries and returns saw Mark McGrath start in goal with Matt Norris, Steve Noble, Scott Schubert and Kieran Guest forming the backbone of defence. Chris Sawers, Mike Lewington, Jack Farrimond and Dan Hermel looked to command the middle of the park from the kick-off as both teams sought the early initiative.

Leo Santangelo and Tom Holland created space in the forward line and kept the Southern Breakers on alert with some swift passing and running off the ball. With Hahndorf shading possession and Norris commanding the defensive line, the better chances fell to the home team and soon they took advantage.

Santangelo opened his goal scoring account after twenty minutes, latching on to a through ball and beating the Breakers’ ‘keeper with a fine shot to put Hahndorf up 1-0.

Further pressure from the hosts saw them double their lead ten minutes later, Sawers with some quality possession deep into the Breakers’ penalty area before cutting the ball back to the unmarked Holland. The talented forward deftly placed the ball into the corner of the goal for a 2-0 lead.

Hahndorf continued to hold the majority of possession, Farrimond and Lewington holding the middle, while Hermel was quick to go on the attack. The Breakers did have their chances but Guest, Noble and Norris kept the shots to a minimum and McGrath stopped any goal bound efforts.

However, late in the half he was powerless to stop a neat headed goal, the ball flicked on twice to elude the Magpie defence for a 2-1 score and to give the Hahndorf coaching staff a talking point at the half time break.

The Breaker drew strength from their goal and had a couple of chances upon resumption of play but their efforts fell straight to McGrath. Hahndorf responded through Sawers, who latched onto a cross field pass and rode a tackle but he unfortunately shot wide of the target. Santangelo went on a determined run and was fouled by a rash challenge but the resultant free kick failed to trouble the Breakers’ ‘keeper.

Sawers again had the chance to score but shot wide of the mark and then Santangelo brought out a fine save by the visiting custodian. However, the pressure took its toll on the Breakers and Hahndorf went 3-1up through Hermel, Santangelo’s pass finding the nippy winger and he rifled a shot into the top right hand corner from the edge of the penalty area.

The Southern Breakers had an opportunity to hit back but after an initial slip, the Hahndorf defence recovered well to block the shot. Luke Guest entered the match and quickly made his presence felt, winning some midfield battles, before Santangelo put the match beyond the Breakers with his second and Hahndorf’s fourth.

A quick counter attack slipped the ball to Sanangelo on the half way line and he executed a sublime turn to skip clear of his marker and race toward goal. Drawing the Breakers’ ‘keeper out, Santangelo firmly guided the ball into the corner of goal for a classy finish.

The goal effectively killed off any hopes the visitors harboured as Hahndorf pressed for more goals. Holland chased a long pass from Hermel, saving the ball from going out and setting up L.Guest with a looping shot that was tipped over the bar.

Jesse Konstantinoff and Rupert Lindon were brought on in the final ten minutes, the latter sending L.Guest through on goal but the Breakers ‘keeper parried the shot to deny the versatile midfielder. The Breakers had a final chance to add to their score but McGrath’s foot blocked the low shot aimed just inside the post.

The win was just reward for the Hahndorf Magpies, a solid defence effort providing the platform for attack over the Breakers who have been a thorn in the side in recent meetings. Best for Hahndorf on the day was Matt Norris, inspirationally leading from the back, with Leo Santangelo and Steve Noble making important contributions to the team win.


Reserves

An insipid first half display cost the Hahndorf Magpies dearly as, despite a spirited comeback, they went down 2-4 to the Southern Breakers.

Hahndorf started the match in a confident mood, Luke Guest stepping into the role of goalkeeper after illness deprived the Magpies of their regular shot stopper, with veterans Andy Craig and “El Presidente” Stuart Thomas leading Dan Mardle and Scott Breaker in defence.

Rupert “Crusher” Lindon, Steve Ness, Jesse Konstantinoff and Tom Stevens patrolled the midfield, weathering an initial Breakers surge before drawing forwards Chris Hyde and Jordan Webber into play. Hahndorf probed the Breakers’ defences before Webber scored for the home team after fifteen minutes. The Magpies made good use of possession on the left and Webber forged a typically bullocking run into the area and found the net with a precise finish into the far corner.

However, only minutes later the Southern Breakers hit back, a series of quick exchanges opened up the hosts and the visitors duly scored with a neat finish from ten metres. The equaliser put belief into the Breakers and they carved out further opportunities, testing Guest, who made some important saves and putting Hahndorf on the back foot.

A second score to the Southern Breakers occurred as the Magpies struggled to find rhythm in their game, their passing going astray and many players static as the Breakers quick movement exposed Hahndorf. The match got worse for the home team when a poor pass out of defence left them open and Hahndorf conceded a penalty, the conversion making it 3-1 to the Southern Breakers.

Hahndorf rounded out their worst half of the season when minutes from half time a Breakers’ shot deflected off a Magpie head and looped into goal.

A stern half time examination saw a more positive Hahndorf team start the second half; Angus Hambrook was brought on for the injured Stevens and the Magpies underlined their resolve with a score within minutes of the restart.

A well-placed corner drew a crowd and it was Thomas who read the flight best, planting a trademark header firmly into the back of the net. The Magpies looked revitalised and pressed forward, building up the pressure on the Breakers defence.

Hambrook, Lindon and Ness picked up the work rate and Hahndorf created several good chances but could not find the goal. Craig and Thomas marshalled the defence and few chances fell to the Breakers. Pressure from the Magpies kept the away side pinned in their half, but Hahndorf had difficulty in forcing a third goal. Another corner found Ness free but his bullet-like header found the Breakers’ ‘keeper as the Magpies sought to reward their dominace.

John Lawler was brought on and put in a few good crosses but they just failed to find the Magpie forwards and Craig hit a speculative lob that went close.
The Breakers threatened late in the match but Guest made a smart save to keep the visitors scoreless in the second half as the referee blew for full time.

After a woeful first forty-five minutes, it was a much-improved performance from Hahndorf in the second half, Ness, Lindon and Craig notable for their efforts.

Super Cs
The Super Cs battled hard to erase a two goal deficit against Old Ignatians, the match ebbing and flowing before it culminated in a 3-3 draw.


Next week is a Cup round, the Hahndorf firsts are playing Adelaide University at home for the 2:30pm kick off while the Reserves travel to meet Budapest in their clash at 12:30pm.

Round 4: Adelaide Comets V Hahndorf

In the 4th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League, 2nd Division, Hahndorf travelled away to the south Parklands to face the Adelaide Comets and were a little unlucky in going down 2-1 in a well-fought contest.

The Comets went at the Magpies straight from the opening whistle, putting Steve Noble, Matt Norris, Luke Guest and Dan Hermel on the back foot from the outset. Several chances by the hosts had goalkeeper Mark McGrath in the action before the Comets pressure netted them the opening goal after ten minutes from a well-directed header.

Hahndorf bounced back through the hardworking midfield of Jack Farrimond, Scott Schubert, Tom Holland and Shaun Smith, bringing forwards Kayne Stubing and Leo Santangelo into the match. The pitch made first time passing and control difficult, the irregular surface pockmarked by divots and hollows, with both sides contending with some interesting bounces and bobbles.

The Comets looked to increase their lead and had two good chances but the headers on these occasions were not as accurate and fell to McGrath’s arms. Hahndorf struck back through Hermel, the quick full back launching a ball to the fleet-footed Stubing who raced past the static Comets defence to strike a fine shot past the advancing ‘keeper.

With parity restored, the match began to get a little scrappy; a few willing tackles in combination with the undulating surface raising the ire of a few players. Hahndorf had a good opportunity to score through Smith, but he shot wide after a ranging free kick by Santangelo found him unmarked.

The match was played predominately in midfield, with neither side fashioning many clear chances and McGrath in good position to deal with the Comets threat. With half time looming, Hahndorf had a contentious penalty decision awarded against them despite vigorous protestations by the visitors. With the Magpie player going to ground under a challenge, the ball hit a divot and took a deviation, striking the player on the upper arm while he was lying on the ground.

The penalty was given and Comets player shot truly to give the hosts a 2-1 lead. The Magpies rallied back but could not find an equaliser in the last ten minutes of the half, but took some solace in having the majority of possession for that period.

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington


The second stanza got off to a fairly even affair with the Comets and Hahndorf looking to take the initiative. Holland was industrious, with Schubert and Farrimond battling in the middle to win the contested ball. Hermel exploited the flank and Smith also used his speed to good advantage.

A Comets attack was quashed by McGrath, parrying the sharp effort on goal and the ball spilled to the middle of the area but there was no-one there for the Comets. The state of the pitch was exemplified when a Comets player burst clear through on goal but a pothole tripped him up and he fell flat on his face, to the amusement of both sets of supporters.

A few tenacious tackles lifted the tempo as both teams looked for the next score. A potentially dangerous Comets free kick loomed but the chance was spurned at the back post.

Farrimond then almost equalised for the Magpies, latching on to a loose ball in the penalty area and driving his shot against the goalpost. Hahndorf kept up the pressure and gained a fortuitous corner when Hermel’s looped shot was deemed to have been tipped over the bar by the Comets’ ‘keeper.

Hahndorf almost took full advantage of the decision as Norris crashed his header against the crossbar. Hahndorf brought on Jesse Konstantinoff as they went searching for an equaliser, but it was the Comets who had the next openings, only to be denied by Guest’s saving tackle and again when McGrath was in good position to make a save.

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington


With the clock ticking down, the Magpies went close after a good build up found Schubert in space but his shot flew wide. Norris kept the Comets at bay by winning some defensive headers, as he had all match, before the referee signalled an end to the contest.

Best on the day was Dan Hermel, resolute in defence and quick on the counter attack, with Shaun Smith and Mark McGrath showing solid returns to form.

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington

Reserves

The Magpie Reserves fought out a deserved 2-0 win over the Adelaide Comets, a solid defensive effort the foundation in gaining the three points.

Hahndorf took to the pitch with Luke Guest in goal and a backline containing Daniel Mardle and Kieran Guest with veterans Andy Craig and “El Presidente” Stuart Thomas. The Comets got off to a confident start and the Magpies were alert early as the two teams grappled with the rough surface, rain just before kick off adding another facet to the ground conditions.

Rupert “Crusher” Lindon, Tom Stevens, Steve Ness and John Lawler worked hard to dull the Comets’ possession in midfield while opening up the flanks in attack. Jesse Konstantinoff and Chris Hyde led the Magpies up front but despite some good build up play the Magpies struggled to find the target early on. The Comets also had a few chances at goal but L.Guest was never tested and looked comfortable under pressure.

Thomas won many aerial duels and K.Guest was having a fine match in the middle of defence as the Magpies blunted the Comets attacks. Lindon made several runs down the wing to get Hahndorf in good positions, but few clear scoring opportunities fell to the Magpies.

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington


The best chance of the half fell to the Comets just on half time, when the Comets eventually managed to put in a good cross from the right and it was nodded just past the post.

In the second half, the Comets put Hahndorf on the back foot for a short period while never managing to find a shot at goal, the rear guard of the Magpies halting any attack. Hahndorf worked back into the match, Stevens, Lawler and Lindon finding openings and Konstantinoff made constant runs in the forward line.

The breakthrough goal came when Craig sent Hyde away with a measured chip down the wing. Hyde took the ball in his stride and he forged into the penalty area where a Comets defender brought him down and a penalty was awarded. Konstantinoff stepped up to take the kick, crisply knocking it past the Comets ‘keeper to put Hahndorf into the lead.

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington


The Comets tried to hit back but they could not get their final pass right, Ness and K.Guest forcing errors in the final third of the pitch and any shots were wildly astray or fell straight to the Magpie ‘keeper. The game grew in intensity with a few strong tackles, showing both sides were not about to concede ground.

Angus Hambrook was brought on for visitors and quickly exploited the tiring Comets on the wing. Bursting clear of the middle, Hambrook drove downfield and lashed a shot across the goal. Unable to hold the shot, the goalkeeper parried it to the waiting Konstantinoff and he fired the ball into the net for Hahndorf’s second score.

The Comets again tried to go on the attack but the Hanhdorf defence was resolute in the final twenty minutes, Tim Staniford ably stepping into the breech when K.Guest was forced from the field through injury.

Best on Ground was Jesse Konstantinoff, scoring both goals and chasing hard all day. Rupert Lindon, Steve Ness and Kieran Guest also had outstanding games in a great team effort with contributions from all across the park.

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington

Super Cs
The Super Cs played Flinders University at Hahndorf and despite going three goals down, rallied to a 2-3 final score, sharpshooter Graham Knight bagging both for Hahndorf.

Next week Hahndorf host the Southern Breakers at the Pine Avenue Arena while the Super Cs are away to Old Ignatians.