2013 Round 10: Hahndorf Magpies V USC Lion

In the tenth round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 3rd Division, a Nat Stewart brace ensured Hahndorf recorded their second successive win in a tough encounter with USC Lion.

Buoyed by their success the previous week, the Magpies entered the match against USC Lion with confidence despite requiring some enforced changes in personnel. Jarrod Kennedy started between the sticks with the evergreen Stuart Thomas, Steve Ness, Matt Filmer and the Swiss Maestro, Sam Putallaz comprising the defending line.

The match began at a furious pace with both Lion and Hahndorf battling for midfield supremacy, Hamish Vickers, Ben Stewart, Sol Scopazzzi and JK Thomas engaged in a physical tussle over possession. Lion gained an initial hold in Magpie territory but could not fashion any meaningful openings. Filmer and Ness were in a miserly mood and gave the Lion forwards little latitude in their quest for goals.

Nathan Roennfeldt and Nat Stewart spearheaded the Magpie attack, the former rampaging around the front line and giving the visitors little rest in defence. The pair had a few opportunities to open the scoring but the Lion goalkeeper was not overly stretched and a few Hahndorf shots went wide of goal.

The middle of the park contained the majority of the action, centring on Scopazzi and B Stewart, the pair involved in some engrossing battles and often the pair found a way out of tight situations with clever skills and passing. The Magpies built their game through the middle with occasional forays down the wings through JK Thomas and Vickers.

It was from a wide position that Hahndorf opened the scoring. Putallaz seized the opportunity of a free kick wide of the penalty area to drive a fierce ball into the six-yard box. The ball swung viciously toward goal and N Stewart popped up to flick his header into the net and give the Magpies the lead.

The visitors tried to hit back but their efforts proved to be fruitless in the face of some determined defending by Hahndorf. Lion took every opportunity to direct the ball to their centre forward but Filmer and Ness were alert to the threat and few shots made their way to Kennedy’s safe hands.

In the second half, Hahndorf were intent on keeping a clean sheet and confident they could outlast the opposition. They made a substitution at the break, bringing on youngster Mitchell Miller. The early minutes were again frantic as the two combatants attempted to assert their authority.

Filmer and Ness remained defiant in the defence of the Magpies lead and combined well with Puallaz, who had some superbly timed sliding tackles, and S Thomas, the veteran exemplary in the aerial duels. B Stewart continued to win the disputed balls in the middle of the park with willing support from Scopazzi, the tall midfielder holding his own against the physical approach of Lion.

Up front, Hahndorf continued to create chances and Scopazzi, Roennfeldt and N Stewart all had opportunities to extend the lead. The Magpies were putting together some fine play, moving the ball from defence to attack through some quick and dextrous passing, their confidence growing as the match progressed. Lion looked to threaten the Magpie goal but their best efforts arrived via corners and Kennedy was ruling his area with aplomb.

With fifteen minutes remaining, Hahndorf sought to push the match beyond Lion with a slick move that emanated from Scopazzi, the playmaker winning a contested midfield ball and striding clear to bisect the Lion defence with a precise pass. Miller read the play brilliantly and with a deft touch belying his tender years, sent N Stewart clear through on goal leaving the Lion defenders stranded. N Stewart raced toward goal and drove a firm shot past the advancing goalkeeper before wheeling away in joyous celebration after giving Hahndorf a deserved 2 goal lead.

In the final minutes the hosts could not afford to relax as Lion grew more desperate in their attempts to score and they had one good chance that Kennedy smothered on the edge of the penalty area, the Magpie ‘keeper swift to address the imminent danger. A second chance fell to the visitors, but upon breaking clear, the shot was hoisted well wide and high of goal.

Miller almost opened his senior account with the last attack of the match, the busy forward latching onto a quick throw and shooting at goal, but unfortunately the ball struck the near upright with the Lion custodian beaten.

The win puts Hahndorf in a positive mood as they begin the second half of the season and their team play and spirit has been progressing well throughout the year. The consecutive victories show their hard work is paying off in this year of rebuilding. There were many terrific performances across the park against Lion with outstanding games from Matt Filmer, Sol Scopazzi, Steve Ness, Sam Putallaz and Nat Stewart. However, it was Ben Stewart who took the Man of the Match honours with a tremendous display in the middle of the park, his ball-winning ability and distribution a major asset in Hahndorf’s play.

Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves showed great determination to secure victory with a come from behind 2-1 win over Lion in a tumultuous match.

The Magpies stayed with their new formation that almost brought them the points last week, however absence and injuries ensured a changed player list. Lion pressed Hahndorf from the start and during the first fifteen minutes the home team were largely on the back foot.

Captain Tim Staniford led the defence by example with great support from James Stratfold, Bob Edwards and Brendan Kilpatrick. The quartet effectively kept the Lion chances to a minimum and goalkeeper Blake Horton continued his good run of form with some sharp saves from the shots that got through.

Luke Jones and Scott Schubert were typically busy and matched up well against their opponents while Michael Driver and Naite Hider provided the Magpies with width. Harvey Watson worked hard in the highly contested middle along with Chris Hyde who provided a focal point up front.

The match developed into an arm wrestle with neither side able to carve open many clear opportunities. A few decisions unsettled players of both sides and the referee had no hesitation in punishing needless chat. Lion had a good chance to open the scoring late in the half but drove their free kick straight at Horton.

The second half got underway and the play went end to end with neither team able to generate many shots on goal with the respective defences holding all the cards. However, a moment of space gave Lion the opening they were seeking after fifteen minutes. Breaking free of a midfield tackle, the Lion playmaker hit blistering shot from distance that gave Horton no chance as it sailed into the top corner of goal.

The Magpies tried to respond but despite some terrific build up play, the goal remained elusive, Hyde, Watson and Driver getting the best opportunities. The hosts persisted however and a free to Hahndorf led to the equaliser. Watson sent in a fine cross from out wide and Hyde rose like a phoenix to power a bullet-like header past the ‘keeper and restore parity.

The score led to some unsavoury words to the ref and a resultant red card left Lion a man down. Tensions increased as the match entered the final twenty minutes. Both teams had the chance to take the lead, Lion almost scoring with a searing effort that just passed over the Hahndorf crossbar.

The Magpies continued to attack and a wide cross fell to youngster Hider who burst into the penalty area. The sixteen year old remained composed and buried a fine, low strike under the Lion goalkeeper to the delight of the Hahndorf team. The Magpies suffered some near scares in the final minutes but a resolute defence held out the visitors until the end of the game.

It was a terrific result for the Reserves who had given away leads in recent matches and it now puts them on the front foot for the remainder of the season. There were some fine performances across the pitch, but Harvey Watson took the Man of the Match honours with a great battling display all match. Others in contention included Scott Schubert, Tim Staniford, James Stratfold and Luke Jones.

Next week the Magpies look to continue their good form with an arduous trip away where they will take on One Tree Hill.

2013 round 1: USC Lion V Hahndorf Magpies

A surge of goals before half time by USC Lion put them in the box seat against the Hahndorf Magpies and despite a spirited comeback, the visitors were halted by a late Lion goal in a 5-2 result.

Hahndorf started their 2013 Division 3 League campaign with a single survivor from their 2012 first team in the opening round match away to USC Lion. Coach Bob McIntyre opted for a tradition 4-4-2 approach with Jarrod Kennedy between the posts commanding a defensive line containing Sam Putallaz, Matt Filmer, Nathan Roennfeldt and veteran Stuart Thomas.

The opening salvos saw both teams keen to gain the ascendancy but despite a couple of uncharacteristic fumbles by Kennedy, neither goal was threatened. The Magpie midfield of David “El Capitano” Grant, Sol Scopazzi, Steve Ness and Brendan Kilpatrick took time to come to grips with the contested middle of the park and Lion came close to the opening goal with a shot that rattled the crossbar.

Moments later, Lion did find a way through, a loose ball picked up on the edge of the penalty area and driven past the unsighted Magpie ‘keeper. Hahndorf responded with a series of attacks, strikers Jesse Konstantinoff and Garry Parsons combining to force several corners. One of these passed tantalisingly across the face of goal and just needed a slight touch to find the net but the ball eluded Hahndorf boots.

The match settled into some box to box action with neither side able to produce a clear chance until Parsons unleashed a fierce drive from distance that drew an excellent diving save by the Lion ‘keeper. The resultant corner saw the ball ricochet about in front of the Lion goal but the hosts cleared the danger before the Magpies could get a decisive boot on the ball.

The Lion clearance created problems for the visitors and a quick through ball put a Lion attacker into a one-on-one with the Magpie custodian and a well placed shot put the hosts 2 nil up. An enforced change brought on Naite Hider for Kilpatrick and the second Lion goal initiated a poor period for the Magpies when soon after, a late challenge in the box drew a penalty that was duly converted.

Minutes later Lion stretched their lead to four when the Hahndorf defence was dragged out of position and Filmer was overwhelmed three to one, giving the Lion striker an easy tap in. The match threatened to go to pieces for the Magpies but they fought on with Parsons and Ness imposing themselves on the match.

With ten minutes remaining in the half, Putallaz struck a delightful corner directly into the net for the visitors, Roennfeldt and the Lion ‘keeper leaping for the ball but both misjudging the curling trajectory. The goal lifted the Magpie spirits and Hahndorf began to play with more confidence.

A splendid forty-metre free kick quickly taken by Parsons pinpointed Hider racing into the penalty area. The sixteen year old showed great poise to chest the ball at pace past the advancing ‘keeper and he rolled the ball into the net for Hahndorf’s second. The half ended well for the visitors as they played with belief and the hosts started to show signs of frustration with a couple of yellow cards handed out.

The second half developed into an intriguing contest with both sides playing some good football but the respective defences were equal to the challenge. Ness continued to anchor the midfield while Parsons remained a focal point in the forward line and Nider showed plenty of speed out wide.

Lion should have added to the score when they blazed over the crossbar from a promising position while Hahndorf replied with a good effort that was deflected away. Lion again threatened with a shot hitting the crossbar and soon after Kennedy showcased his talent with a superb close range save from a one-on-one situation.

Time drew on and Hahndorf had a good period of play to hold Lion in their defensive third. Grant had a legitimate penalty call turned down after a Lion defender had the ball strike his raised arm as he leapt to block a cross. Hahndorf continued to look for a third goal but the Lion defence held them at bay.

Misfortune struck the Magpies with ten minutes remaining, a break by Lion saw a good cross come into the Hahndorf penalty area. Under pressure, Filmer met the ball with a textbook volley that unfortunately went the wrong side of the post for the vistors and provided an early contender for own goal of the year.

The Magpies had two late chances in the final five minutes, a long Scopazzi throw was flicked on by Parsons to find Grant at the far post. The wily veteran manoeuvred expertly to strike a fine volley but the Lion ‘keeper beat out the point blank shot with a great save.

A second long throw almost drew reward for Hahndorf but again the Lion custodian was able to tip the lofted ball away from the predatory Grant moments from the final whistle.

While the result did not go their way there were encouraging signs for the Magpies in this year of rebuilding against a side that itself was reconstructed a few seasons ago after losing a great many players. Best on the day was Steve Ness who worked tirelessly in the heart of midfield with some outstanding contributions. Garry Parsons and Jarrod Kennedy also drew accolades for their games, the pair injecting some quality and drive for the Magpies.


Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves greeted the season with a fine 1-1 draw against USC Lion, the young side improving throughout the match to score a deserved, late equaliser.

The Magpie Reserves began the match with many new and inexperienced players, however a sprinkling of some older heads and a renewed enthusiasm has seen the team expand its play from preseason.

The match developed into a true game of two halves, Lion having the majority of play and chances on goal in the first half. Blake Horton was busy in goal behind Tim Staniford who marshalled the back line of Ben Stewart, Jackson McGuire and James Stratfold. Harvey Watson, Mitchell Miller, Johannes Edler and Luke Jones comprised the midfield while the two Michaels, Murphy and Driver led the strike force.

The early dominance of Lion soon brought reward when they went ahead, scoring after fifteen minutes of play. The hosts continued to control much of the play but slowly Hahndorf began to even the contests across the park with Stewart and Watson providing some drive while Miller and Jones were contesting hard in the middle.

The second half saw Scott Schubert enter the match and he immediately had an impact, launching a fierce drive from distance that clattered into the upright of the Lion goal with the ‘keeper well beaten. Jones had a chance but blazed wide of the mark as the Magpies began to get the better of their tiring opponents.

Schubert provided Murphy with a good opportunity but his shot was saved before Nathan Roennfeldt made an appearance in the last fifteen minutes. Horton continued his sterling work in goal, holding a rasping, close range shot and then tipping a free kick onto the bar before collecting the rebound.

Hahndorf found fertile ground behind the labouring Lion backline and Roennfeldt used his superior pace to charge down the wing and deliver an exquisite cross that eluded all but Driver on the far post and he calmly slotted the ball into the net for the deserved equaliser.

The Magpies almost forced a winner in the remaining few minutes, however Murphy could not get enough on his shot and then Edler hit a fine volley that produced a good save to keep the final score at 1-1.

It was an encouraging result for the Magpies with some good performances across the park, culminating in Blake Horton’s efforts and the rookie goalkeeper took the man of the match honours.

Next week Hahndorf are at home for the first time this season when they host One Tree Hill at the Pine Avenue arena.

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 7: USC Lion V Hahndorf

USC Lion V Hahndorf

A solid Hahndorf unit travelled to Grange for 7th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd Division against fellow promotees USC Lion, the Magpies putting on an unyielding performance to run out 3-0 winners.

The visiting Hahndorf team started well against USC Lion, pushing the ball around with precision on the large pitch, Leo Santangelo, Luke Guest, Chris Sawers and Michael Lewington controlling the centre and enjoying the true bounce. Hahndorf pushed forward, looking to release forwards Kayne Stubing and Jordan Webber, the pair eager to exploit the space behind the Lion defence.

Lion struggled to match the pace of Hahndorf, but wanted to attack the Magpies, their most significant threat coming from the long throw. However, Steve Noble had the defence organised with Scott Schubert, Jack Farrimond and the versatile Dan Hermel keeping the Lion forwards honest.

A good opening twenty minutes saw the Magpies largely on top and they created the better chances. A good piece of skill by Guest set up Sawers at the far post but the dynamic winger struck the post with his sharp attempt. Hahndorf used their pace to expose the Lion backline, exemplified when Stubing raced into the penalty area only to be brought down by a desperate lunge. Santangelo stepped up to hit the resultant penalty but his placement found the legs of the Lion ‘keeper. Fortunately for the Magpies the rebound fell back to Santangelo and he made no mistake the second time, blasting the ball into the net.

Hahndorf drew confidence from the goal and sought to build upon their lead. Stubing was again involved in the action but failed to find the target and the Magpies constructed some quality possession before Hermel shaped a shot over the bar. USC Lion continued to find their best avenue to goal was the long throw, one landing in the heart of the penalty area and causing some consternation for Hahndorf before Farrimond was able to clear.

With halftime nearing, the Magpies found Sawers free and he broke down the flank before unleashing a thunderous strike that found the corner of the net, the Lion ‘keeper getting an ineffectual hand to the ball as it powered past him.

The Magpies leapt out of the blocks at the beginning of the second half, a quick movement down the wing caught the Lion defence by surprise and Webber was presented with a great chance but unluckily stepped on the ball as he honed in on goal.

The close call woke the sleeping Lion outfit and they put together some of their best moves of the match, however the Hahndorf defence was firm, and the few shots the home side had were dealt with by ‘keeper Mark McGrath. Hermel and Sawers continued to cause havoc on the wings and in one section of play, Hermel was taken down, recovered and then taken down again seconds later before finally getting a well-deserved free kick.

Lion continued to develop their play better in the second half, but a solid performance from Magpie ‘keeper Mark McGrath denied the hosts, while Noble was at his miserly best in blocking a few Lion shots before an injury forced him to be replaced by Rupert Lindon. USC Lion then had a great chance to get back in the match when they were awarded a penalty, however McGrath was impenetrable and fended off the penalty strike with his legs.

To add insult to the Lion miss, seconds later the Magpies added their third goal, Sawers bursting down the flank and delivered a fine cross to find Webber alone just metres from goal, the bustling forward smashing the ball into the net. Hahndorf continued to push for further goals, Hermel sending Stubing away on a break and the speedy forward set up his fellow forward but Webber headed over the bar.

USC Lion found the Magpies difficult to break down at the back, Schubert, Lewington and Farrimond proving to be obstinate to Lion’s advances. Santangelo and Guest provided stability in the middle, the former sending Webber in on goal with a precision pass, but the forward found the goalkeeper with his effort. Hermel continued to weave his magic out wide and late in the match he went on a dazzling run past the tiring Lion defence before hitting a searing shot that brought out a top save, the home ‘keeper just tipping the effort over the bar.

The win by Hahndorf went some way to avenging their loss in the corresponding fixture last year and the three points keeps the Magpies firmly in mid-table. Man of the Match was Chris Sawers, a goal and some scintillating runs drawing plaudits while Dan Hermel and Mark McGrath both had pivotal roles in Hahndorf’s victory.

Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves fought out a fairly even contest but were unlucky to concede a late Lion goal, the 2-1 score a disappointing result for their efforts.

Hahndorf continued to work out the kinks in their new formation, but matched up well against the USC Lion unit. A few early sights on goal by Lion drew Hahndorf ‘keeper Nathaniel Brooke into the action and defenders Kyle Eglinton, Kieran Guest, Dan Mardle and veteran Andy Craig worked hard in the opening period.

The Magpies settled into the game and put together some neat passes, Eglinton, Chris Hyde and Scott Breaker working the angles. John Lawler and Steve Ness held the midfield while Rupert “Crusher” Lindon found space out wide to bring Jesse Konstantinoff into attack. Konstantinoff tested the Lion ‘keeper with several good efforts but the Magpies could not find an opening goal.

An injury brought “El Presidente” Stuart Thomas into the game with both teams looking for the ascendancy. Each side got into some threatening positions but it wasn’t until the last five minutes of the half before a goal was scored. Hahndorf defended high up the pitch and forced a turnover, Lawler and Hyde combining to put Konstantinoff through on goal. The hard running forward lashed the ball into the net to round off a fine move by the Magpies.

However, the lead did not last long as Lion hit back immediately to level the score, a free kick to the near post causing confusion and the ball was poked home in the last action of the half.

The second stanza saw USC Lion and Hahndorf on the attack, several chances at either end keeping up the excitement for both sets of supporters. Hyde, Konstantinoff, Lindon and Eglinton made all the right moves but found the Lion ‘keeper in good form.

The Magpies brought on Angus Hambrook and Tom Stevens into the match as the intensity lifted, the play going end to end as both sides searched for a goal. The Magpies defence looked to have contained the threatening Lions, but a lapse in concentration let the hosts score their second with fifteen minutes remaining.

Hahndorf threw themselves forward and had several chances to equalise, the closest occurring when Ness headed against the underside of the bar and the ball bounced on the line before being recovered by the ’keeper. The Magpies continued to push for a goal but time ran out before they could convert their chances.

It was a disappointing loss for the Magpies, the team with strong performances across the park, Andy Craig, Chris Hyde, Steve Ness, Scott Breaker and Rupert Lindon amongst the best on the day.

Super Cs.
The Super Cs made it consecutive wins, holding on to run out 4-3 winners against a young Southern Breakers side. Former First team goal machine Tony Carter showed age has not blunted his sharpshooter instincts, bagging a hat-trick, with veteran Jim Simpson also on target with a fine header. Leading 4-0, the tiring legs of the Magpies survived a second half Breaker surge in an exciting finish.

Next week the Hahndorf Magpies host the Cougars at the Pine Avenue Arena while the Super Cs are away to CCM United at Windsor Gardens.

Round 16: Hahndorf V USC Lion

Hahndorf V USC Lion

The business end of the season witnessed the two top teams in the 3rd Division of the SA Amateur Soccer League, Hahndorf and USC Lion battling it out for top honours. When the final whistle was blown, neither team had managed to score in an entertaining encounter, the nil all score leaving Lion on top with Hahndorf a few points behind in second.


The pitch was soft underfoot but with no Reserves match taking place the ground was in pretty good condition considering the rain during the week. Hahndorf suffered an early setback when first team debutant Sam Wood twisted a knee minutes into the match and had to be substituted, Jon Lynn stepping in for the young midfielder.

As could be expected from the two form teams, the opening exchanges were cagey with both sides finding the pace of the pitch. Hahndorf started Mark McGrath in goal with Lynn, Scott Taylor, Matt Norris and Steve Noble taking up the defensive duties. The midfield of Tom Holland, Jack Farrimond, Luke Guest and Aaron Noble were up for a busy day and forwards Kayne Stubing and Leo Santangelo were equally keen.

The midfield was seeing the majority of the action with USC Lion just shading possession, however both teams were looking to impose themselves on the match but despite a number of attacking forays, there were few chances on goal. A couple of speculative shots by Lion gave McGrath no problems while Hahndorf had a good opportunity when Holland set up S.Noble on the edge of the area but the low strike was wide of the mark.

To the delight of the home supporters, the visitors earned a couple of yellow cards in the first half hour after a bit of niggle between the teams, the referee not tolerating any backchat. Another chance fell to Hahndorf when Taylor’s free kick caused concern in the Lion penalty area, but A.Noble couldn’t get enough bend on his shot and it just passed wide of the post.

Lion then had the best chance of the half, a header skimming the crossbar after a good corner. But then the match turned a little sour for the visitors when they had a player sent off after earning two yellow cards in thirty seconds. Both cards were for dissent, the offender not learning after his first yellow and his continued verbal abuse getting him a subsequent second.

The man advantage gave the Magpies a little more space and they put together some nice attacking moves but were unable to threaten the Lion goal before the half came to an end.

Hahndorf started the second half well, using their numerical advantage to good effect and holding possession as they sought to unpick the Lion defence. A good chance fell to the Magpies when A.Noble headed on a lofted pass and the Lion goalkeeper rushed out to clear the ball but missed it. Fortunately for the visitors, a defender was able to hack the ball to the sideline before A.Noble could get to it.

Hahndorf were enjoying more of the play but were finding the Lion defence in good form, the hosts doing well but finding their final passes going astray. The Magpies controlled the tempo, Taylor, S.Noble and Norris starting the moves from the back and building through the midfield.

A free gave Taylor the chance to put the ball in a dangerous position and it drew the Lion ‘keeper out to punch the ball away. Hahndorf gathered the loose ball and after several passes it was Guest who chanced his luck with a shot that passed wide of goal.

Hahndorf brought on Jordan Webber to unsettle the Lion defence as the match entered the final twentyfive minutes. Guest was relishing his midfield role and almost put Santangelo through on goal but the Lion ‘keeper snatched the ball away at the last moment.

The defence of Lion and Hahndorf were dominating proceedings; however a few opportunities kept the match in the balance. A Magpie appeal for handball in the penalty area was turned down and a Lion attack saw a shot go past the post. Hahndorf answered with an effort that went over the crossbar as both teams were finding the goal a difficult target to hit.

A.Noble and Santangelo combined to set up Guest but while the shot was low, it was also wide. A Lion attack put them in a promising position but Lynn cleared the danger with a timely header. The supporters of both teams were in fine voice, urging on the players and engaging in a bit of banter but it was Hahndorf who were making most of the running.

Farrimond went wide with a shot after Hahndorf had built up a period of pressure, the industrious midfielder, together with Guest, getting plenty of the play. In the final minutes a quick free kick put Webber down the flank and he sent in a fine cross for A.Noble but as he shaped to volley in the ball, a slight deflection, appearing to come off the Lion defenders arm, took the ball off his boot.

It was to be the last notable action in the day, the nil-all result keeping the status quo at the top of the table. Man of the match was Steve Noble, his direction and endeavour in defence a stable foundation from which many of Hahndof’s positive moves originated.

Next week the Hahndorf Magpies are away to the Adelaide Pumas while the Div 4 and Div 5 Cs are both visiting Adelaide University.

Round 7: USC Lion V Hahndorf

Lion mauls Magpies

USC Lion V Hahndorf

Hahndorf suffered their first defeat of the season following a disappointing second half display, conceding 6 goals to nil against an organised and well-drilled USC Lion side for the 7th round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 3rd Division.

Playing into a stiff breeze, the Magpies fielded a team with Nathaniel Brooke in goal behind a defensive line of Steve Noble, Jon Lynn, Luke Guest and Scott Taylor. The opening ten minutes saw Hahndorf make most of the possession through midfielders Aaron Noble, Leo Santangelo, Jack Farrimond and Dan Holland, linking up with front men Kayne Stubing and Matt Norris.

Despite their early forays forward, Hahndorf could not produce a clear chance on goal and it was USC Lion who broke through, almost against the run of play, to put the hosts up 1-0 after fifteen minutes.

The Magpies responded through Taylor and Stubing, the fleet-footed player dashing into the penalty area and forcing the Lion ‘keeper to beat the shot away. Guest rose to meet the resultant corner kick but could not find the target with his head.

Norris, A.Noble and Farrimond combined to send Santangelo through with a well-weighted pass but the home goalkeeper was up to the task and held Santangelo’s fierce drive. Hahndorf tried again through Stubing, a solo run eluding most but the finish was not as precise and again the Lion ‘keeper was to deny the Magpies.

Lion were beginning to warm to the match and Hahndorf could have been two goals down but for a great save by Brooke, repelling a rasping drive from the home striker. The battle for the midfield was fierce, neither team given much time on the ball but the Magpies failed to capitalise on their pressure during the half. A good build up presented Norris with a chance but the Lion custodian palmed away his effort to leave Hahndorf trailing 1-0 at half time.

The Magpies got off to a poor start in the second half when USC Lion scored their second goal soon after resumption of play, a stray disposal from Brooke returned with interest. Hahndorf almost replied through Stubing, but he stuck his shot over the bar after a fine run and cross from Holland.

Hahndorf pressed forward searching for a goal but found the Lion defence in a miserly mood and the visitors were saved when Lion found the net after a fast break, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.

Making his return after an injury, Tom Holland was brought on to add impetus to Hahndorf’ effort but this was thwarted by Lion’s 3rd goal, a volley to the corner leaving Brooke no chance.

Hahndorf tried to respond but could not find the breakthrough they desired, the host side determined not to let the Magpies into the match. Pressure from Lion forced their 4th goal, a strong block by Brooke was not cleared and Lion eventually bundled the ball in.

A free kick summed up Hahndorf’s day, the opportunity not finding the target to the frustration of the Hills team. Lion countered with a fast break and their 5th goal as the Magpies continued to make little impression in the attacking third.

Hahndorf persisted however and were unlucky after Norris headed wide after a great cross from D.Holland found the club stalwart in a good position. Lion ended the pain for Hahndorf with a stunning strike from distance, the volley finding the top corner to seal a comprehensive win in which Hahndorf faded during the second half and were largely outplayed.


Reserves

The Magpie Reserves played out a strong, competitive scoreless draw against the 3rd placed USC Lion to maintain second spot in their division.

The Magpies began with Kyle Eglinton, Mike Lewington, Andy Craig and Matt Medley in defence, with James Nicholson donning the gloves. A mixture of youth and experience pervaded the midfield with Max Gordon-Edwards, Chris Sawers, Colin Hibbert and David Grant looking hold the middle ground. Jordan Webber and Jesse Konstantinoff provide a focal point up front and the pair kept the opposition defenders on their guard.

The hosts put Hahndorf under pressure in the first phase of play, trying to make the most of the stiff breeze behind them. The Magpies defence worked hard to shut down their hosts with some timely tackles and defensive blocks as they worked their way into the match. Nicholson made a brilliant save early on to deny Lion a score when they broke through on goal, the custodian snatching the ball from the feet of the advancing forward.

Sawers and Gordon-Edwards found the flanks very rewarding and the Magpies had a great chance when the latter put in a fine cross for Webber to knock on to Konstantinoff, but the striker was off balance when he shot and the ball went wide.

Hahndorf began to make some telling moves forward but were frustrated by a flag-happy linesman who made a few dubious calls for offside. However there was no denying Hahndorf’s intent when Sawers struck a rasping drive from distance that cannoned off the crossbar.

The second half was as combative as the first, the defence of both teams holding sway over the forwards and leaving them with few genuine chances. Lewington and Craig won many of the aerial duels while Eglinton and Medley were sure in their tackles.

Hibbert and Grant continued to battle in the cauldron of midfield while Gordon-Edwards and Sawers found acres of space out wide. The Magpies began to tame the Lion defence and pressed for a goal, bringing on Rupert “the Enforcer” Lindon and Sam Heyward, hoping the injection of fresh legs would tip the match in the visitors favour.

Webber was denied a goal when a Lion arm deflected his volley but the Hahndorf protests held no water with the referee, as the Magpies continued to pin the hosts back in the final twenty minutes. Heyward had a good chance to win it for Hahndorf in the final minutes but could not keep his header down after another great cross from Grant.

In a disciplined display where all players played very well in a hard fought match, among the highlights were Sawers, Webber, Gordon-Edwards, Craig and Lewington.


Super Cs
The Div 4 Super Cs were unlucky in their 3-1 loss to Adelaide Redblue Eagles, equalising soon after the start of the second half but unable to prevent a couple of late goals by the home side.

The Div 5 Cs fared better in a physical encounter, getting over Modbury Jets 3-1, with a fine double strike by John Lawler putting the Magpies in a good frame. An answering goal by Modbury livened up the match before Scott Schubert sealed the win with a clinical finish.

Next week the Hahndorf Reserves host Elizabeth Grove in the Reserve cup and the Div 5 Cs also are at home to Salisbury Villa.