2013 Round 17: Hahndorf V Murray Bridge

In a hotly contested match, the Hahndorf Magpies fought off a determined Murray Bridge, two second half goals sealing a 3-0 victory.

The final home game of the season for Hahndorf was played in fine, sunny conditions with the last day of winter succumbing to the advancing spring and providing surprisingly warm conditions after months of inclement weather.

Jarrod Kennedy commanded the Magpie defence with Nathan Roennfeldt, Matt Filmer, Stephen Ness and Sam “the Swiss Maestro” Putallaz keeping the Murray Bridge forwards honest. The opening exchanges were robust with no quarter given and set the trend for the match.

Ben Stewart and Sol Scopazzi were busy in the middle of the park and the majority of attacks were driven from whomever gained the advantage in this crucial position. David Grant and JK Thomas provided width for Hahndorf in their support for the strike pairing of Nat Stewart and Hamish Vickers.

Despite the high intensity, few clear chances presented themselves for either team. The respective defences were in a misery mood and the forwards were finding the route to goal elusive. However Vickers only needed the one opportunity to put Hahndorf into the lead. Latching onto a fine pass from Scopazzi, Vickers broke clear of the Murray Bridge back line and closed in on goal, firing in a shot that squeezed under the advancing goalkeeper and found the back of the net.

Murray Bridge tried to restore parity before half time but their best efforts arrived through Scott Graham, the former Magpie having two free kicks that Hahndorf defended well. Other opportunities failed to pierce the safe hands of Kennedy and the solid Hahndorf defence. However, after the break the visitors put the Magpies under serious pressure from the resumption of play.

A long throw made its way into the Hahndorf 6-yard box and only a terrific save from Kennedy stopped Murray Bridge from getting an ideal start to the second half. The visitors continued to put the Magpies under examination but Ness and Filmer had all the answers, the pair reading the game to perfection and often breaking up attacks and then initiating some foraging runs into midfield.

Both teams tried to create an opening but genuine chances were scarce and the frustration began to show with some vigorous challenges and sharp banter keeping all players on their toes. With twenty-five minutes remaining, the Magpies made a change bringing on the fresh legs of Simon Gale.

Scopazzi injected some fire with a scorching long range shot that passed over the crossbar as Hahndorf began to press for a second goal. Several corners did not bring the desired result but the Magpies kept the pressure on. Scopazzi and N Stewart combined in a flowing move down the wing where N Stewart delivered a ranging cross to Gale dashing in at the far post. Measuring his volley, Gale lashed the ball back across the goal keeper to find the corner of the net, the first time strike bringing delight to the Magpie players and supporters alike.

Hahndorf could sense the weakening in Murray Bridges resolve and a fine B Stewart pass almost gave the Magpies another goal. Mitch Miller entered the match and was immediately into the play with a penetrating run down the wing. The move broke down but Putallaz picked up the clearance to put Scopazzi and B Stewart into a good position. The pair exchanged passes before Scopazzi blasted over when he probably should have found the target.

However minutes later, Hahndorf put the match beyond Murray Bridge with a sweeping move from deep in defence. A rampaging run by Roennfeldt brought the ball into the attacking third where N Stewart chased a pass to the byline before sending in a low cross. Miller timed his run to perfection and stabbed the ball home from the close range, the teenager’s sharpness beating the Murray Bridge ‘keeper to the tantalising cross.

The third Hahndorf goal effectively ended the challenge from Murray Bridge and the final whistle followed soon after. It was a gritty performance from the Magpies where they defended with determination and the goals were delivered by the emerging youngsters of the club.

Best on the day was Stephen Ness who was a pillar of stability in defence, able to defuse dangerous situations and deliver crucial passes under pressure. Ben Stewart and Matt Filmer also drew accolades for their tenacity and drive throughout the match.

Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves bounced back into form with a late winner over Murray Bridge to deservedly take the points against a competitive Murray Bridge.

The Magpies got off to a brisk start in fine conditions and Stuart Thomas signalled Hahndorf’s intent with a quickly taken free that just passed over the crossbar. The visitors replied with a sharp effort that also was too high before the players of both sides tested the referee’s limits with a few willing tackles.

Blake Horton commanded the Magpie goal with James Stratfold, Brendan Kilpatrick, Graham Philips and Luke Jones showing steely resolve in defence. A couple of early chances were created by the Magpies; striker Chris Hyde glanced a header wide from Jones’ corner and soon after Jason McKenzie was put through by Scott Schubert but the Murray Bridge goalkeeper smothered the shot and Harvey Watson pushed the follow up wide.

Hyde had a great opportunity to open the scoring when he gathered a long throw in the penalty area and shot on the turn, only to pick out the goalkeeper from close range. The play was enthusiastic but occasionally scrappy as Hahndorf and Murray Bridge battled for possession with the ball often in dispute.

Jones threatened to score from distance several times in the lead up to half time, however the scorekeeper was not troubled by the time the break arrived. The Magpies brought on Sean Behan to replace an injured Kilpatrick upon the resumption of the match with the Magpies determined improve their play.

Schubert and Hyde combined to set up McKenzie but the goalkeeper blocked his shot. Watson had a chance but also found the frame of the Murray Bridge custodian. The visitors then had a great chance to score with a fine switch of play to release a forward but he blazed over the crossbar from a good position. Hyde provided another opportunity for Michael Driver, who had ghosted into the penalty area but he also managed to pick out the goalkeeper with his shot.

Aaron Fiora made an appearance and the match entered a period where the action went end to end but no clear chances opened up for either team. However Hahndorf were beginning to force the pace and kept up the intensity as the game began to enter the final stages.

Hyde was desperately unlucky when consecutive close range shots were fended off the line and the hosts were beginning to suspect it wasn't to be their day. The Murray Bridge ‘keeper then made a tremendous save from Driver’s fine strike as Hahndorf continued to press for an opening.

With the minutes ebbing away, a foul interrupting Watson’s fine edge-of-the-box run let the ball roll to Hyde and he tucked a curling shot into the corner of the net. Unfortunately for Hahndorf, the referee annulled the goal and awarded the Magpies a free for the indiscretion on the edge of the penalty area.

Hyde lined up the free and curled a brilliant shot over the Murray Bridge wall to find the top left corner of goal, the strike arriving with minutes left in the match. A couple of late substitutions by Murray Bridge threatened to find an equaliser but the Magpie defence stood tall to deny the last ditch efforts. A final chance fell to Fiora, when he was put clear of the Murray Bridge defence but their keeper again was able to parry the shot.

The win was just reward for the persistence of the Hahndorf team and was a good response to the previous week’s poor showing. Best on the day for the Magpies was Scott Schubert who was tremendously industrious all match with his inspirational defending and driving attacks. Chris Hyde and Blake Horton also had fine games, with Horton’s distribution a highlight.

Next week Hahndorf travel to Parafield Gardens for the final match of the season where they will take on Angkor Hornbill.

2013 Round 16: Flinders University V Hahndorf

In challenging conditions, Hahndorf and Flinders University put on an entertaining and highly competitive match, the final 4-1 result somewhat flattering the University side.

Hahndorf travelled to the Flinders University playing fields unsure if the week of drenching rains would produce a playable pitch. However, despite being soft and slippery underfoot, the ground was in reasonable condition, if a little heavy. The opening fifteen minutes were even with both sides adjusting to the conditions and Hahndorf trying a new formation against the second placed Flinders.

The first genuine chance saw the hosts graze the upright from a well taken 25m free kick and then they followed up with a concerted attack that held the ball in the penalty area. Several shots were blocked by the defensive organisation of Matt Filmer, Sam “the Swiss Maestro” Putallaz and Nathan Roennfeldt before Flinders eventually found a clear strike to the corner of the net.

The Magpies tried to equalise through Ben Stewart and Hamish Vickers but the former put his shot high and the goalkeeper was solidly behind Vickers’ long range effort. Hahndorf pressed on with David Grant, Stephen Ness, JK Thomas and Sol Scopazzi gaining meaningful possession. A fine move found Nat Stewart in the penalty area and he hit the upright after a sublime turn wrong footed the University defender.

The Magpies period of possession was interrupted by a quick break by the hosts and only a tremendous one-on one save by Jarrod Kennedy prevented Flinders from doubling the score. Kennedy was again the saviour soon after when he tipped a goal-bound header over the bar but he was without help minutes later. An organised University curled in a well flighted corner that picked out the tall timber of University and the ball was headed home with little contest.

Hahndorf tried to hit back before the break and Roennfeldt went on an adventurous run down the wing before finding N Stewart. The striker hit the ball sharply but a defensive block saw the ball squirm to the goalkeeper.

Hahndorf began the second half with a couple of fine tackles by Filmer and Ness keeping the Flinders forwards honest. Filmer was having a terrific match in the back line, often turning defence into attack with some marauding runs through the middle of the park. The Magpie strikers were gaining in confidence and N Stewart put Scopazzi through on goal but the University ‘keeper made a fine save.

However Hahndorf persisted and were rewarded when Putallaz picked out N Stewart with an inch-perfect free kick. The lively forward pounced on the chance and hit a sweet half-volley, the first time shot thundering into the corner of the net for a brilliant finish. The Magpies sensed a momentum shift and they pressed forward with greater intent. B Stewart and Vickers had shots deflected before the former drove in a header that drew a great save from the Flinders ‘keeper.

Further pressure from Scopazzi’s throws almost put N Stewart in but with the angle narrowing, he cut back to Vickers, the youngster unfortunately lofting his drive over the crossbar. The pitch was becoming noticeably cut up by this point with players often slipping over and wishing they had donned the extra long studs. Despite this, the quality of play remained high and there were few badly timed tackles.

Hahndorf’s progress was dented when a speculative long shot by Flinders drifted over Kennedy’s head and dropped in the net, the goal coming from nowhere and temporarily halting the Magpies’ push for an equaliser. Undeterred, Hahndorf tried to redress the balance and Roennfeldt had a strike deflected after a fine build up. Simon Gale entered the game with twenty minutes remaining and both teams tried to gain the initiative but neither side were able to create any genuine opportunities for some time.

Vickers made progress down the wing and angled a drive across the goal but it was palmed away, Hahndorf regained the ball but could not find the target as Flinders defended in numbers. Gale dashed onto a through ball but the University ‘keeper was resolute to deny the one-on-one chance. The anguish of the Magpies doubled as the ball fell to Scopazzi and he drove it goal ward but a desperate last line of defence block kept the ball out.

A late attack by Flinders had the Hahndorf defence scrambling to clear the ball. Just when it looked like the danger was averted, a rash tackle gave Flinders a penalty, the offence occurring outside the area but momentum and a distant referee deciding against the Magpies. University converted the penalty with less than a minute remaining and gave Hahndorf no chance to reply, the match ending 4-1 to the hosts.

The score belied the close, competitive nature of the match and the standard of play was a credit to both teams despite the challenging conditions. Best on the day for Hahndorf was Matt Filmer who was excellent in defence and launched Hahndorf into attack with some rampaging runs through midfield. Nat Stewart and Hamish Vickers also drew plaudits, Stewart with a tremendous goal and impressive work rate while Vickers often provided scoring opportunities.

Reserves
The recent fighting spirit of the Hahndorf Reserves deserted them in their clash with league-leading Flinders University, the Magpies capitulating to an embarrassing 14-0 loss.

With their encounter in June rained out, it was the Magpies first meeting with the undefeated University side, Flinders carrying a maximum 33 points from 11 games thus far. Expecting a challenging match, Hahndorf found themselves pinned back in their own half for much of the game, the defence of James Stratfold, Brendan Kilpatrick, Graham Philips and Johannes Edler under pressure from the start.

A couple of early University shots wide of goal only served to narrow their focus and they opened the scoring from a mid-pitch free. The ball was threaded through the defence and Flinders scored their first with a clinical finish. Soon they had doubled their tally when they took advantage some disorganisation by the Magpies, the visitors failing to form a wall and a free kick fired past the exposed Blake Horton.

Bob Edwards, Scott Schubert, Michael Driver, Sean Behan and Harvey Watson tried to stem the Flinders tide but further goals arrived with alarming regularity and forward Chris Hyde had few chances to fashion a Hahndorf reply. Watson, Schubert and Hyde combined well several times but the University defence smothered any promising Magpie attacks, Schubert and Watson with the better opportunities.

By half time Hahndorf were down by six goals despite the best efforts of Stratfold and Kilpatrick. A change in formation after the break sought to arrest the flow of goals but Flinders soon had put another two away within ten minutes of the restart. Simon Gale was brought on to provide some pace out wide as Hahndorf continued to defend the relentless University pressure. A good save by Horton was followed by a Philips’ clearing header off the line as Hahndorf showed some mettle.

The Magpies began to create some forward momentum through Stratfold and Schubert, while Watson and Hyde had a couple of chances to put Hahndorf on the scoreboard. However a counter attack by the hosts saw them add their ninth, Horton initially fending off the one-on-one situation before the rebound fell in Flinders favour and was tucked away.

The Magpies continued to contest the ball but conceded four goals in the final ten minutes as the University sliced through some increasingly dispirited defending. In a forgettable match, best on the day for Hahndorf was James Stratfold, who battled hard all day, with Scott Schubert and Harvey Watson also having creditable games.

Next week the Hahndorf Magpies will be looking to reverse their form and triumph in both games in their final home match at the Pine Avenue arena when they face Murray Bridge.

2013 Round 15: Hahndorf Magpies V Adelaide University

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2013 Round 13:Hahndorf Magpies V Torrens Valley Rams

The local Hills derby was a torrid affair with Torrens Valley grabbing a two goal lead before a persistent Hahndorf finished strongly to share the points in the 2-2 draw.

The 13th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 3rd Division was played in fine conditions at Pine Avenue, the pitch holding up well after the recent inclement weather. Hahndorf began with the same settled line up from the previous week and the opening exchanges were played at a furious pace.

Torrens Valley and Hahndorf both tried to impose their own styles on the game with the midfield a heated cauldron of tough, physical battles. Sol Scopazzi, Hamish Vickers, Ben Stewart and David Grant moved the ball well to send the play forward to Nat Stewart and Nathan Roennfeldt.

The tall Torrens Valley defenders coped well with the Magpie strikers as the home team struggled to get a clear sight of goal. A good move by Roennfeldt almost set up Vickers but the Valley goalkeeper made a smart interception, a portent of things to come.

Stuart Thomas, Matt Filmer, Stephen Ness and Sam “the Swiss Maestro” Putallaz were equal to the robust approach of the Torrens Valley forwards, giving goalkeeper Jarrod Kennedy solid cover. As the match began to settle Hahndorf started to take control of possession and force their opponents onto the back foot.

Grant latched onto a great cross by Roennfeldt and lashed a shot goalward, forcing the ‘keeper into a fine fingertip save. Minutes later, Thomas delivered a free to Scopazzi and he gave Grant another opportunity, the Scotsman with swift footwork to elude an opponent before stabbing a sharp effort just wide of goal.

Torrens Valley returned the favour with a good period of pressure but they could not get a decent sight on Kennedy’s goal. Play went end to end with Magpies seeking to get on the scoreboard when Putallaz fired just over the crossbar. Valley’s reply was interrupted with a blocking tackle from Ness, the Hahndorf stalwart predictably reliable in his play.

Filmer made an adventurous run from deep, combining with Roennfeldt and Grant to penetrate the Torrens Valley penalty area but again the Magpies could not breach the defence. Roennfeldt was rampaging in the forward line and his constant harassment gave the Valley defence little rest. A foul on him presented Putallaz with a chance but the Valley ‘keeper made a good low save.

The Valley ‘keeper proved to be the busiest player on the park and frustrated Hahndorf with some tremendous saves, one frantic period denying Vickers twice from close range after fending off another Grant effort.

It was then a shock for the hosts when Torrens Valley opened the scoring, a long ball sending their forward cutting inside to strike a neat shot inside the far post. The Magpies tried the respond but could not find their way past the Valley defence and they went to the break a goal down despite dominating possession.

Hahndorf set to redress the balance in the second half and worked their way into the attacking third of the pitch. Again the Torrens Valley defence perturbed them, the visitors getting numbers behind the ball and Hahndorf also let themselves down with their final pass.

The Magpies continued to press and then were caught on the counter attack. Torrens Valley made a quick break and their tall, quick forward cut into the penalty area to smash a fierce shot into the roof of the net from a sharp angle.

Hahndorf tried to respond but almost went three goals down when a good move by Torrens Valley gifted an attacker a great opportunity however he shanked his shot high over the bar when it looked far easier to score. Torrens Valley continued to frustrate the Magpies, their work rate and forceful approach unsettling the home players.

However, their physical application eventually led to their undoing, a lunging and needless tackle on Roennfeldt giving away a penalty. Scopazzi despatched the gift with a tremendous strike that tested the workmanship of the net and the goal lifted the hosts. Hahndorf brought on JK Thomas and he immediately linked with Scopazzi and B Stewart but a good save denied the Magpies.

The match was in the balance and Hahndorf made two more changes, bringing on Peter Atkinson and Mitchell Miller. Kennedy made two terrific saves to keep the Magpies in the match that then took a turn for the worse for Torrens Valley. A crude and overly vigorous challenge led to second yellow card and send off, putting the visitors largely on the defensive for the remainder of the match.

Hahndorf surged forward in the remaining twenty minutes to lay siege to the Valley goal. However, the visitor’s integrity proved remained difficult to break down and their goalkeeper was having a sterling match. Roennfeldt, Thomas, Atkinson and Miller were all having an impact up front but Hahndorf could not seem to unlock the path to goal with Valley putting everyone behind the ball to defend their lead.

Eventually an opening was prised open by the Magpies. The ball was crossed into the penalty area and a Thomas shot was forced through many defending legs before Miller swooped to stab home the equaliser. The sixteen year olds first senior goal brought much relief and great delight to the Magpie army and Hahndorf sought to grab the lead in the final minutes.

Scopazzi and Atkinson combined to send a cross that eluded all after a fine build up and then Roennfeldt almost scored with the final attack of the match, but his lofted drive was plucked out of the air by the Valley ‘keeper.

The derby ended in a 2-2 draw with both teams feeling they could have won the pulsating encounter. A number of players could have taken the Man of the Match honours for Hahndorf but due to his relentless running and attack on the ball Nathan Roennfeldt was the deserving recipient. Others in the frame included Sol Scopazzi, David Grant and Hamish Vickers.

Reserves
A complete team performance saw the Hahndorf Reserves produced some delightful football in a comprehensive 6-1 drubbing of Torrens Valley Reserves.

From the outset, the Hahndorf Reserves took control of their match, moving the ball with surety and precision. Harvey Watson had an early attempt on goal and Naite Hider picked out the Torrens Valley ‘keeper with a sharp effort. The youngster did not have to wait long however to open the Magpies account.

Johannes Edler and Luke Jones played a short corner and targeted Chris Hyde, his header going wide until lightening reactions from Hider saw him slide the ball in at the far post.

Hahndorf almost made it two with Hyde hitting the crossbar with another header and Bob Edwards rolled a shot just wide of goal. Building from the back, Brendan Kilpatrick, Graham Phillips, Michael Driver and Jones were in fine form as the passing interplay amongst the players was some of the most eye catching in recent years.

Hider was rampant on the wing with his pace and movement providing a potent attacking weapon. Watson missed wide and Edwards went close before a searching run by Hider into the penalty area found Hyde and the unmarked marksman made no mistake for a 2-0 lead.

Torrens Valley tried to put Blake Horton’s goal under pressure but Jones and Phillips made some great tackles and the visitors shooting was astray when it counted.

The second half saw the Reserves pick up where they left off and within ten minutes it was 3-0, Hyde completing a brace when he headed Edler’s excellent corner to the vacant back post. Jason McKenzie entered the match as the Magpies looked to assert their dominance.

However, Torrens Valley hit back when a clearing header was missed and the visiting forward pounced to drill the shot in. Hahndorf replied with repeated attacks but found their shooting off target until a fine solo run by Schubert. Intelligent running by the forwards had Valley in two minds and Schubert went on a driving run from the middle of the park before unleashing a cracking shot past the isolated goalkeeper.

Hahndorf continued to attack and a number of opportunities went unfulfilled with the Magpies well on top. James Stratfold was brought on and moments later scored after Watson and Edwards combined to baffle the Valley defence, their slick play finding the fresh substitute for an easy tap in.

Hahndorf made it 6-1 when Edwards broke free to cleverly chip the goalkeeper and round out a comprehensive team performance. From the many excellent contributors on the day, Scott Schubert took the best on ground award with Naite Hider and Michael Driver also in contention.

With the club undergoing a comprehensive rebuild, the Hahndorf coaching staff has been extremely pleased with the development of the younger players this season. Teen agers Hamish Vickers, Naite Hider and the Miller brothers have all shown outstanding skill and potential that augurs well for the future of the club.

The Hahndorf Magpies now have a week off before returning to league action when they will host Adelaide University at the Pine Avenue Arena on the 10th of August.

2013 Round 12: Adelaide Budapest V Hahndorf Magpies

Hahndorf produced their best performance of the season on the plains of Kilkenny with an emphatic 6-1 demolition of Adelaide Budapest.

The drenching rains of the preceding week gave cause to think the Budapest ground may resemble a swamp. However, despite some patches of grass deep enough to hide a small child, the pitch was remarkably firm and dry for the 12th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 3rd Division fixture.

In the opening exchanges Hahndorf gained some good possession with Sol Scopazzi, Ben Stewart, David Grant and Hamish Vickers providing solid support to forwards Nathan Roennfeldt and Nat Stewart. The Magpies should have been awarded a penalty for handball but the referee missed the offence and the ball fell to N Stewart but his shot was deflected for a corner.

Budapest replied with a shot from distance but it went well over Jarrod Kennedy’s crossbar. Hahndorf explored another route to goal with a fine Scopazzi free finding Vickers, his header drawing a good save from the home ‘keeper. However continued pressure by Hahndorf resulted in the opening goal. A corner drew a crowd in the six-yard box but the ball eluded all apart from B Stewart who bundled the ball over the line at the back post to the delight of the travelling faithful.

The visitors looked to double the score through a series of corners but they could not repeat their previous success. Budapest began put some pressure on the Magpie defensive line, with Stuart “El Presidente” Thomas, Matt Filmer, Stephen Ness and the Swiss Maestro, Sam Putallaz reasonably comfortable hitherto. A quick break by the home side almost caught Hahndorf out but Filmer made a terrific saving tackle to deny Budapest.

The play shifted in favour of Budapest but the Magpies were solid in defence and the hosts could not find an effective shot on target while Kennedy was sure in his goalkeeping. In the final five minutes of the half the Magpies wrested back the initiative and capitalised on a corner. A weighted header from B Stewart at the back post was directed to Grant at the front. The Scotsman leapt high to tuck the ball inside the post with a well-timed header to give Hahndorf a well deserved 2-0 lead at the break.

The second half started at an even tempo and the home side took advantage of the diagonal wind but found their shooting astray. A free kick was blasted high and wide while their best opportunity arrived via a headed corner that passed over the crossbar. Kennedy came to the Magpies rescue with some solid saves when the shots were on target, the Hahndorf custodian in sparkling form. A period of Budapest pressure ebbed away after a good build up was wasted when a ball passed the face of goal with none of the home strikers within reach.

In contrast, the Magpies were surgical in their attack, Scopazzi slicing open Budapest with a perfectly weighted pass to Vickers. Drawing the Budapest goalkeeper out, Vickers unselfishly squared the ball to B Stewart who had the simplest of tasks to roll the ball into the empty net.

The third Hahndorf goal seemed to knock the confidence of Budapest and frustration began to creep into their game. Vickers was exploiting the wing and soon produced a good cross that just eluded N Stewart. Roennfeldt followed up and shot truly but a desperate lunge diverted the strike.

B Stewart and Scopazzi were true to the surrounds, their relentless industry throughout the day driving the Magpies from the heart of midfield. The pair were involved in the fourth Hahndorf goal, Scopazzi feeding B Stewart out wide before the hirsute midfielder pulled his cross back to Grant at the top of the penalty area. Two Budapest defenders rushed at Grant but after some fancy footwork akin to a highland fling, he found the space to compose a delightful curling chip into the top right corner of the net, a superb Captain’s goal making it 4-0

Vickers almost made it five when Roennfeldt’s cross reached him and he drove a fierce strike against the crossbar. Budapest responded with a couple of efforts on goal but Kennedy was never threatened. With the Magpies in control, two successive substitutions brought on youngsters Mitch Miller and Naite Hider.

Another corner to the Magpies made it 5-0, Putallaz precisely picking out Scopazzi on the edge of the six-yard box and the tall midfielder headed truly past the diving goalkeeper. Hahndorf were in rampant form and the home side struggled with many of their passes going astray.

Thomas underlined his good game with a slide rule pass to release Hider beyond the defence. The sixteen year old showed tremendous composure to clip the ball past the advancing ‘keeper and find the net, the youngster wheeling away in delighted celebration.

A late flurry by Budapest eventually saw them pull back a consolation goal. A free kick was pushed sideways for a good strike at goal and the ball was sliced off a defender’s leg and into the net.

The win was a tremendous effort by the Magpies, all players putting in a comprehensive performance against a quality rival. There were many deserving of the Man of the Match honours, however Ben Stewart stood out with a consummate game in the engine room of midfield and a brace of goals. Other outstanding efforts came from David Grant, Sol Scopazzi and Nathan Roennfeldt.

Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves fought hard to remedy a two goal first half deficit, striving to the end to eventually share the points in a 2-2 draw.

Despite kicking into a robust, diagonal wind, Hahndorf took the match up to Budapest and largely dominated the opening fifteen minutes. Chris Hyde led the attack with support from JK Thomas, Harvey Watson and Aaron Fiora, the players pushing to find a goal but not creating many shots on target.

Luke Jones took an optimistic shot from distance that went over the crossbar and Thomas had two efforts narrowly miss the target. Scott Schubert organised the midfield and initiated many driving moves as the Magpies tried to convert their possession into goals.

However it was Budapest who opened the scoring, their forward going on a solo run that resulted in a goal that left Hahndorf rueing their missed chances. The defence of James Staniford, Graham Philips, Tim Staniford and Michael Driver had been steady but paid dearly for a lapse in concentration.

Hahndorf tried to hit back with Jones forcing the ‘keeper into tipping a fierce drive over the bar. Watson produced a battling run to give Jones another chance but a defender deflected the goal-bound shot. With half time looming, the Magpies fell two goals behind after the hosts made the most of an attack to score a second goal that had more than a hint of offside during the build up.

Hahndorf entered the second half knowing they should have not been trailing and set about restoring scoreboard balance. Nevertheless Budapest had other ideas and Blake Horton made a sharp save at the near post to kick off the action in the second stanza.

The Magpies showed their intent when Watson and Thomas combined to set up Hyde with a chance but the marksman put his header over the crossbar. Thomas then had an effort pass just wide of goal while Watson displayed some nimble footwork to elude three defenders before the goalkeeper smothered his shot.

Hahndorf tightened up in defence and Horton again made a good save to keep the Magpies in the match. It proved to be an important play as minutes later Schubert collected a pass from Thomas as Hahndorf made a flowing move down the flank. Schubert centred the ball and, in Tommy Oar style, the ball eluded the goalkeeper to nestle just inside the far post.

Buoyed by the goal, Hahndorf pressed for the equaliser and put the Budapest ‘keeper under scrutiny with a testing free kick and then Schubert blasted a shot over the bar. Mitch Miller entered the match for the Magpies and the youngster was straight into the action with an effort going wide of goal. With time running short, Schubert and Driver exchanged passes on the wing before setting Hyde up with a chance but the ball went narrowly wide.

A rare free to Hahndorf gave them hope and Stratfold quickly found Watson on the edge of the penalty area. Dancing past three Budapest players, Watson turned onto his favoured left foot and curled an exquisite shot into the top left corner of goal, bringing sheer delight to the entire team.

Play had barely restarted before the match was brought to an end, Hahndorf well deserving of a point in the 2-2 draw. Best on the day for Hahndorf was late goal hero Harvey Watson, the attacking player busy all game and never giving up. Schubert, Thomas and Driver also produced fine performances in the match where the entire team did well to raise their game in the second half.

Next week Hahndorf host Torrens Valley in the return bout of the hills derby, the Magpies looking to carry their winning momentum into the clash and secure maximum points.

2013 Round 11: One Tree Hill V Hahndorf Magpies

Hahndorf failed to contain a rampant One Tree Hill during the 11th round of the South Australian Amateur League 3rd Division, the hosts capitalising on Hahndorf’s lapses to record a 6-2 win.

The Magpies travelled to the most northern ground in the 3rd Division, the picturesque One Tree Hill containing a small, village-like pitch and, surprisingly, more than one tree. The gathering dark clouds forewarned the visitors of impending trouble however Hahndorf and One Tree Hill both sought to master the tight pitch before inclement conditions could overshadow events.

Jarrod Kennedy was the busier custodian in the early exchanges and the home side put Stuart Thomas, Stephen Ness, Matt Filmer and Sam Putallaz under close scrutiny as they sought the opening score. One Tree Hill did not have to wait long, slyly taking advantage of a disputed throw-in and a distracted referee to catch the Magpies napping, strolling into the penalty area and slotting home the goal.

The lead encouraged One Tree Hill and midfielders Peter Atkinson, Sol Scopazzi, Ben Stewart and Hamish Vickers had to fight hard to try to curb the supply to the host’s forwards. Several forays threatened the Magpie goal and Thomas showed all his experience and guile to diffuse a dangerous situation with a tremendous tackle.

However, a corner to One Tree Hill exposed Hahndorf, the ball passing through the penalty area before it was returned to the six-yard box for a tap in goal. The hosts almost made it three nil when a forward went past Kennedy but the Magpie goalkeeper had pushed him wide and he slammed the ball into the upright from an acute angle.

Another home attack drew a tremendous save from Kennedy but One Tree Hill was not to be denied and they lined up a fortuitous free kick outside the penalty area. Again Kennedy made an heroic stop but, unable to hold the shot, he received no support from his team-mates and One Tree Hill pounced on the loose ball to slot it home.

Persistent rain then descended from the heavens to further dampen the Magpies’ spirit. Chris Hyde and young Mitchell Miller tried to get Hahndorf on the board but chances were rare. Ness had two good chances deflected, striding forward to strike a couple of fierce drives. Nevertheless, it was One Tree Hill who had all the answers and they made it four goals in the half when a cross from the short wing picked out a solo striker and he had time to finish his cup of tea before heading across an isolated Kennedy.

Hahndorf made a much better game of it in the second half and within a few minutes a fine run down the wing by Vickers resulted in a well cut back cross. Hyde displayed his experience and quality with a excellent first time finish into the corner of the net to make the score 4-1.

Scopazzi and Stewart continued to fight hard in the middle of the park with the former in a particularly combative mood. Ness was warming to his task and made several good runs before a cynical tackle brought him down. Scopazzi stood over the free kick and took the opportunity to take aim at goal as One Tree Hill had decided the distance was too great to warrant a defensive wall.

Scopazzi almost made them pay with a terrific strike, the ball rocketing for the top corner of goal to force the home custodian into a fine save, just tipping it over the bar. Hahndorf kept the pressure on and gained several corners; one that resulted in Thomas powering a header into the net but a Magpie infraction in the goalmouth negated the score.

The play went end to end with neither side able to create many clear chances. However Vickers managed to test the keeper with a quick shot after Scopazzi had carried the ball through several bruising encounters. In defence, Kennedy made a sharp save on the edge of the penalty area to keep Hahndorf in the match.

However, he was left stranded when a free to One Tree Hill was innocuously drifted into the six-yard box and a slight deflection saw the ball elude everyone to sneak just inside the far post. Hahndorf hit back almost immediately when they earned a penalty and Scopazzi made no mistake with a powerful strike that threatened the integrity of the net.

Minutes later the hosts had restored their four goal buffer when they sprung the offside trap and caught out Kennedy with a quick shot from the edge of the penalty area. With the match entering the final stages, Tim Staniford made an appearance to bolster the tiring Hahndorf defence.

Both teams had chances to add to the score with a Vickers shot going narrowly wide while Kennedy was superb to deny One Tree Hill a one-on-one opportunity. Scopazzi rounded out a commanding performance with an intricate run ending with a sharp effort on the turn that found the goalkeeper.

The loss brought to an end a short burst of positive results for Hahndorf but they will be encouraged by the return of a few players before the next league match. Best on the day for Hahndorf was Scopazzi who was tremendously combative all day, with Jarrod Kennedy, Ben Stewart and Stuart Thomas also having fine contributions.

Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves battled valiantly against superior numbers in their match against One Tree Hill, beaten 11-4 in a high scoring encounter.

The Magpies struggled to find players this week and took to the small One Tree Hill pitch with only nine wearing the Hahndorf stripes. Initial fears were confirmed when the home side scored immediately after kick-off, the two strikers slicing through the Magpies to tuck the ball past Blake Horton in goal.

The play was firmly entrenched in the Hahndorf half as Bob Edwards, Tim Staniford, Graham Phillips and James Stratfold were extremely busy in keeping out the marauding One Tree Hill players. Goals came at regular intervals but many attacks came to naught with Horton making some fine saves and Edwards commanding a tight line to catch the eager hosts offside.

Johannes Edler, Brendan Kilpatrick, Michael Driver and Harvey Watson tried to stem the midfield tide and Edler had Hahndorf’s first shot at goal, a volley that passed wide of the target. After twenty-five minutes the Magpies were six goals down. However they pulled one back when Hahndorf held the ball in One Tree Hill’s penalty area and Driver pounced to drill home a shot and open the Magpies’ account.

Soon after, the signs were looking better for the visitors when they gained a tenth player and they then forced the hosts into conceding an own goal; the defender wrong footing his goalkeeper and the ball rolling into the net.

The Magpies weathered further attacks from the hosts before a third goal to Hahndorf made the match interesting for players and spectators alike, Watson’s pressure causing another back pass to miss the ‘keeper but find the net. Remarkably the score stood at 6-3 at the break.

Hahndorf grew in confidence in the second half and Watson combined with Edler to set up Driver who struck his shot wide from a promising position. Soon after, Watson, who was tireless in his work rate, was fouled in the 18-yard box and he skilfully drilled in the penalty to make it 6-4.

The run of goals to Hahndorf unsettled a few of the One Tree Hill players, however they continued to put Hahndorf under pressure in defence and Horton made several good stops to keep them at bay.

With twenty minutes remaining, the Magpies were beginning to tire and One Tree Hill eventually broke through. They quickly added three more goals before Watson, Edler and Kilpatrick all had good efforts go close. The hosts added one more goal before the final whistle, the surviving Magpies thankful the rain had stayed away for the match.

Despite the 11-4 result, the Hahndorf Reserves were gallant in defeat with all players giving everything despite the dire circumstances. Best on the day for Hahndorf was Harvey Watson whose dogged determination in attacking midfield was a shining light beneath an overcast sky. Hahndorf now have a week off before they are on the road again, travelling to the plains of Kilkenny where they will meet long time rivals, Adelaide Budapest.