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 6: Adelaide University V Hahndorf

Hahndorf handed harsh lesson by Uni

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

Hahndorf v Adelaide University (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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





Reserves: Adelaide Budapest V Hahndorf

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Round 5: Hahndorf V Southern Breakers

Hahndorf V Southern Breakers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Reserves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Round 4: Adelaide Comets V Hahndorf

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington


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

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

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

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

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

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington


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

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

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington

Reserves

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

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

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

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

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington


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

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

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

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington


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

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

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

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

Image courtesy of Michael Lewington

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

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

Round 3: Hahndorf V Vipers

Hahndorf V Vipers

Hahndorf suffered their first defeat of the SAASL Division 2 season when the visiting Viper side proved to have the finishing touch in the final 3-1 score.

The Magpies brought Kieran Guest in at the back with Dan Holland, also starting his first match of the season. Full backs Steve Noble and Ash Parr complemented the defensive line with Hahndorf shot stopper Nathaniel Brooke in goal. The midfield of Chris Sawers, Mike Lewington and Scott Schubert were busy early and matched up well against the Vipers, both teams pushing the ball around on the superb Pine Avenue surface.

A pretty even opening twenty minutes saw few genuine chances, forwards Tom Holland, Kayne Stubing and Jordan Webber unable to really threaten the Viper goalkeeper. The visitors had a couple of opportunities, one shot flashing over the bar and another going wide after a good build up. Lewington and Schubert battled hard and made the middle of the park a real contest with neither team dominating.

Hahndorf launched a quick counter attack and ran at the Vipers before Stubing was brought down on the edge of the penalty area. D.Holland drilled the resultant free kick around the defensive wall and into the far bottom corner of the net, a little piece of brilliance giving Hahndorf the lead.

The Vipers hit back with some determined possession and forced the Hahndorf defence to work hard, Guest in particular doing well. However, a solo run into the penalty area by a Viper forward gave them the equaliser. The visitors looked to double their tally soon after with a free just outside the penalty area, but Guest in the Magpie wall repelled the shot and the teams went into half time at one goal apiece.

Kicking down the slope, the Vipers took the attack up to Hahndorf and soon gained a free kick, the ball aimed to the middle of the penalty area. Brooke punched the ball away but it went straight to a Viper who hit a lobbed volley that Brooke did extremely well to tip over the bar as he scrambled back to his line.

More pressure from the Vipers drew Brooke into more action, a Guest tackle taking the sting out of the shot before Hahndorf brought on Shaun Smith for his first run of the year. The intensity lifted with both sides getting in a few willing tackles.

Hahndorf put together a great move that resulted in Stubing finding the net for the Magpies, but a late offside call saw the goal controversially disallowed. The Vipers made a substitution, bringing on a Ron Jeremy look-alike and the move paid immediate dividends, the substitute scoring despite what looked to be a legitimate offside appeal by the Hahndorf back line.

The Vipers made it 3-1 soon after, the hosts caught short at the back post and a Viper header cannoned off Brooke into the net. The Vipers looked rampant at this stage, only Parr’s clinical tackle and another good save from Brooke prevented further addition to the score.

Hahndorf brought on Rupert Lindon and Jesse Konstantinoff in the final ten minutes in an attempt to wrest back the initiative but the Magpies struggled to put together any cohesive moves. A few late opportunities fell Hahndorf’s way, Sawers going closest with a header just past the post, while Parr put in a good cross that went unmet by the Magpie forward line, a move that underlined Hahndorf’s lack of efficiency in the forward third of the pitch.


Best on the ground for Hahndorf were Kieran Guest, who had an impressive day in defence, with Mike Lewington and Scott Schubert working hard all day in the midfield.



Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves endured a frustrating day against the visiting Vipers, squandering many chances and unable to recover from a 2-1 deficit.

Hahndorf started brightly, finding their passing rhythm from the first whistle with forwards Jesse Konstantinoff and Chris Hyde ably supported by Kyle Eglinton, Tom Stevens, Steve Ness and Rupert Lindon. A few early shots at goal kept the Vipers on alert while their forward line was kept in check by defenders Tim Staniford, Andy Craig and Stuart Thomas with Alex Robson particularly good form.

The Magpies pushed hard for the opening goal and should have scored when Hyde’s header hit the crossbar. Soon after, Konstantinoff lashed a shot against the post and Lindon worked a short corner into the penalty area and he too hit the post with a rasping shot.

Hahndorf had numerous corners but failed to capitalise, their profligacy producing a sting when the Vipers lumped the ball forward and Hahndorf failed to deal with it, the visitors opening the scoring with a lob over ‘keeper Mark McGrath.

Hahndorf continued to look for goal, several more corners offering the chance to equalise and eventually they broke through. Stevens collected his rebounding corner and picked out Hyde at the near post with a fine cross. Hyde nodded in from close range to mark his return to the club after a year hiatus and to restore parity just before half time.

Resuming the play after the break, the Magpies pushed for the leading goal, Lindon and Stevens finding plenty of the ball and giving some good service into the forward line. However, it was the Vipers who struck, catching the Hahndorf defence napping with a quick free kick chipped over the back line and the Viper forward shooting the ball past the exposed Magpie custodian.

Hahndorf fought back, driving at the Vipers defence but their shots were astray and despite some fine build up play, the Magpies had trouble converting their chances. With the hosts pushing forward at every opportunity, the Vipers found space to create a few chances but neither side was able to trouble the scoreboard.

With a the two teams playing a fairly even second half, Hahndorf lifted their intensity in the last fifteen minutes, pinning the Vipers back in their half for long periods. Lindon was in the thick of the action and sent fierce shot in towards goal, but the goal-bound ball struck Hyde as he tried to evade the shot and it just looped past the post. The play summed up the Magpies afternoon, the team creating some fine football but unable to capitalise with a score.

Man of the Match was Alex Robson, a rock in defence, with sterling contributions from Tom Stevens and Rupert Lindon.

Hahndorf has the Easter break off to get some injured and returning players back to fitness before an away match against the Comets, while the Super Cs host Flinders University in their Division 6 clash.

Round 2: Adelaide Budapest V Hahndorf

Adelaide Budapest V Hahndorf

On a blustery day Hahndorf travelled to the far reaches of Kilkenny to battle with Adelaide Budapest, the visitors showing great determination for their first win of the season, scoring twice in the final minutes to triumph 3-2.

With a few injuries and absences, Hahndorf had their depth tested and mananged to to field a very competitive team against their more experienced opposition. Nathaniel Brooke led the defence from goal with Mike Lewington, Steve Noble, Matt Norris and Ash Parr in the backline. Hahndorf were immediately on the front foot and looked to exploit the flanks with Dan Hermel and Tom Holland pushing past the Budapest fullbacks. The first clear chance fell to forward Kayne Stubing after striking partner Jordan Webber used his bustling pace to centre the ball. Stubing did the hard work in getting past the advancing ‘keeper but with the goal beckoning, he shot weakly and it was intercepted before finding the net.

In the early running, Hahndorf largely had the bulk of the play, Luke Guest and Scott Schubert doing the hard graft in midfield and the Magpie defenders on top of their opponents. Hermel and Holland were stretching Budapest wide to extent that Holland was brought down in a cynical challenge as he stepped past his marker, the foul earning the Budapest player a yellow card. Stubing and Webber were a threat up front and the former almost scored, forcing the home ‘keeper to tip a fierce shot past the post.

Budapest also had an opportunity from a free kick, however Brooke made good ground to effect the save. Soon after the hosts had a good chance to score but with the goal on offer, club stalwart Norris was at his defensive best to clear off the line as the home team began to assert themselves on the match. With half time fast approaching, Budapest enjoyed some possession and headed past the post from a good position while Noble made an excellent tackle when Budapest were building up a good attack. The half ended with both teams having a few opportunities but neither could take advantage as a several willing tackles punctuated the play.

After half time, Hahndorf brought on Chris Sawers and the teams resumed battle as the wind increased in strength. Budapest adapted better to the conditions as the Magpies struggled to get into their passing rhythym, the host defence cutting off the Handorf forwards. The pressure eventually resulted in Budapest scoring, a cross giving the home side a sight at goal and despite Brooke’s initial parry, the ball came back with interest for the first score of the match.

Hahndorf continued to battle and drew level when a good Brooke clearance found Hermel out wide. Streaking down the flank, Hermel skipped past a couple of defenders before picking out Stubing in the middle. Stubing sized up the goal and struck a solid shot past the outstretched ‘keeper.

Aiming to double the score, Stubing and Hermel combined soon after but the shot went astray, the Magpies speed on the wings really having and impact on the tiring Budapest players. However it was the home team that hit back to take advantage of some poor defending by the Magpies, giving up possession in their own penalty area and paying the price as Budapest went 2-1 up with fifteen minutes remaining.

The match looked to be within Budapest’s grasp; despite Hahndorf having a younger and quicker team, they had trouble finding the right combination of passes, often choosing the wrong option. Webber carved out an opportunity after Holland played him in to space but the effort was fired wide.

Hahndorf went looking for an equaliser, bringing on Jesse Konstantinoff as the minutes ebbed away. A break down the wing set up another chance for Hahndorf, Hermel sending Stubing racing past his marker. Looking up, he centred to Webber who guided his header back across goal and found the corner of the net.

The equaliser seemed to suck the wind out of Budapest’s sail and Hahndorf went on the attack down the wing. Hermel weaved his way down the sideline and drew level with the penalty area before putting in a tantalising cross that drew out the Budapest custodian. Racing in, Webber reached the ball before the ‘keeper and went past him, pushing the ball across goal for Stubing to smash into the net from two metres.

The winning goal sent the travelling fans into frenzied celebration, the Magpies completing a great escape in the final four minutes of the match. Man of the Match was Kayne Stubing with Jordan Webber and Scott Schubert also putting in great performances.


Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves put in a good team effort under trying conditions and ran out 3-1 winners against Adelaide Budapest, goals to Jesse Konstantinoff and Rupert Lindon giving the Magpies the three points.

Making a guest appearance in goal was Luke Guest with Kyle Eglinton, Andy Craig, Kieran Guest and Daniel Mardle in defence. Rupert Lindon, Stephen Ness, Tom Stevens and Angus Hambrook filled out the midfield, supporting front-runners John Lawler and Jesse Konstantinoff.

Hahndorf almost made a perfect start, passing the ball around well and finding some early gaps in the Budapest defence. They were denied a legitimate penalty when Konstantinoff was brought down in the box, but the referee had trouble with his whistle and the appeals went unheeded.

The Magpies continued to use the wide space on offer, Hambrook being particularly productive on the left side. Stevens and Lindon distributed from the middle and Konstantinoff benefitted when he opened the scoring after twenty minutes.

Konstantinoff received the ball in the right channel, stormed into the penalty area and blasted the ball past the home ‘keeper to put Hahndorf one goal up.
Ten minutes later the Magpies doubled their lead, an incisive through ball by Hambrook releasing Lindon and his Thursday night training paid off as he beat the goalkeeper one-on-one and slotted the ball into the net.

The second half began with Hahndorf looking to increase their goal tally but some wayward finishing kept the hosts in the match, Lindon and Stevens unable to find the net from good positions. The Magpies then went through a period where their passing game deserted them and Budapest upped the pressure. Tim Staniford and Alex Robson entered the fray as Budapest sensed an upset was in the offing. A clearance off the line saved Hahndorf once but soon after a chip arced over L.Guest to give Budapest hope at 2-1.

Hahndorf held their nerve and continued the press for another score, Lawler bringing a top save from the Budapest ‘keeper when his curling shot looked to have found the top corner. With time running out, Hambrook went on another of his countless forays down the wing, easily breaking clear of his marker and putting a pin-point pass to Konstantinoff. One-on-one with the ‘keeper, Konstantinoff blasted the ball into goal to seal the win with what was the last play of the match.

Man of the Match for Hahndorf was Rupert Lindon with Steve Ness and Angus Hambrook also having outstanding contributions.

Next week the Magpies will look to make it consecutive wins when they take on the undefeated Vipers at the Pine Avenue Arena. The Super Cs have the long trip to Elizabeth East where they will visit the Northern Wolves.

2011 Round 1: Hahndorf V Adelaide Titans

Hahndorf V Adelaide Titans

Newly promoted Hahndorf kicked off their 2011 Division 2 campaign with an engaging 1-1 draw, a clinical strike by Kayne Stubing cancelled out in the second half by the Adelaide Titans.

After a solid preseason, Hahndorf were confidant going into the first round of the South Australian Amateur Soccer League 2nd Division, hosting the Adelaide Titans, a rebadged incarnation of Navarino FC. The Magpies started with Nathaniel Brooke in goal, commanding the defensive line of Steve Noble, Michael Lewington, Matt Norris and Dan Hermel. The quartet were tested but a genuine threat was not forthcoming from the Titans in the early running.

The Magpie midfield were into the action from the outset, wide players Chris Sawers and Ash Parr working the flanks while the central battleground was embraced by Luke Guest and Jack Farrimond. Tom Holland and Kayne Stubing formed an adroit and swift pairing up front and after twenty-five minutes it looked to pay immediate dividends with Stubing escaping and shooting past the Titans goalkeeper before a late offside call ruled out the goal.

The warning went unheeded by the Titans and soon after Farrimond and Guest combined to win a contested midfield ball and send Holland into space. Drawing a couple of Titan defenders, Holland pinpointed his pass to Stubing who rounded his marker and fired a shot into the far corner to put Hahndorf into the lead.

The Titans almost equalised soon after but a goal-bound shot was cleared off the line by Noble’s timely header. Both teams fought for the next score but clear chances were rare, Guest going closest with a stinging free kick that flew past the post.

In the closing stages of the half, Stubing had a great chance to extend Hahndorf’s lead after Holland had centred but the Titans’ ‘keeper made a good block to deny the speedster. At the other end, Noble was called on to repeat his defensive skills with a second clearance off the line after the Titans went close to restoring parity.


The second half started well for the hosts when Stubing passed to Holland on the flank and he picked out Sawers at the back post with a fine cross. Sawers met the header at pace but the ball flew inches over the bar. The Magpies created further chances with Guest going just wide from distance before Hermel made a storming run down the wing, exchanging passes with Guest before darting past the Titan defence. However the opposing ‘keeper stood firm to deny Hermel’s shot.

The Titans answered with a good chance of their own, but Brooke was in fine form to halt the play, one of several good saves by the big Hahndorf custodian as the intensity of the match increased. A period of pressure by the Titans eventually resulted in a score, Hahndorf failing to sufficiently clear the ball before a couple of sharp passes put the ball in the net.

The Magpies almost restored their lead soon after when Stubing lashed a ball just over the bar from thirty metres, his strike gaining him some attention from a Titans defender who was minutes late with his tackle and he earned a yellow card from the referee.

A Parr free kick found Lewington in the box but his shot crashed off the Titans ‘keeper as the visitors found themselves under increasing pressure. The Titans hit back with a great chance, their striker clear through on goal and he unleashed a fierce shot from close range that Brooke beat away with a stunning save.

Hahndorf showed its intention in going for the win by bringing on forward Jesse Konstantinoff for a midfielder as both teams strove for the winning combination. Sawers got into a good position but skewed his shot and Stubing burst through to go one on one with the goalkeeper but had his shot parried away.

Hahndorf though they had broken the deadlock when Farrimond arrowed a powerful header to the corner of goal but a terrific save tipped the ball over the bar. Hahndorf continued to create the better chances and late in the match Parr weaved his way past several Titan players. In the motion of shooting he became entangled with Konstantinoff and the ball passed harmlessly wide of goal.

Hermel had the last clear chance of the match when put through by Konstantinoff, but again the Titan’s ‘keeper was able to deny the effort to ensure the match ended with the points shared.

Man of the Match for Hahndorf was Nathaniel Brooke, making several crucial saves to repel the Titans, with Tom Holland and Jack Farrimond also outstanding with their contributions.



Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves fought out a well-contested match against the Adelaide Titans, the 1-1 score line giving both teams a point despite a strong finish by the hosts.

Hahndorf went to an early lead, courtesy of a well-struck penalty by Jesse Konstantinoff, the Magpie forward converting the chance after Steve Ness was deemed to have been illegally impeded in the Titan penalty area.

Hahndorf did not make the most of their quick start and the Titans forced the defence of Scott Breaker, Andy Craig, Kieran Guest and Daniel Agger onto the back foot as the visitors pushed hard for an equaliser. Magpie goalkeeper Mark McGrath made several important stops as Hahndorf struggled to meet the determination of the Titans.

Kyle Eglinton, Rupert Lindon, Ness and Angus Hambrook battled hard in the midfield with Tom Stevens looking to support Konstantinoff, however Hahndorf had trouble stringing passes together with their rivals pushing forward with regularity.

The Magpies mounted a few attacks but despite some good opportunities, they could not add to their score. The Titans engaged the long throw to put Hahndorf under pressure in the penalty area and with half time beckoning, their persistence paid off, a looping header from a throw-in just nestling inside the post.

With scores level, Hahndorf picked up their game in the second half. Guest and Breaker worked hard in defence and were often the start of counter attacks as the Magpie midfield began to find more space. Hambrook and Eglinton offered an attacking force on the flanks and the hosts were able to get better service into the forward third of the pitch. Konstantinoff, Ness and Stevens had their opportunities but could not make them count as Hahndorf began to take control of the midfield.

John Lawler was brought on and was involved in several good moves but again Hahndorf had trouble beating the Titans’ ‘keeper. The visitors also created some good chances but were generally wayward with their shooting. Both teams had good chances to score the winning goal but the respective defences held firm.

It was a much-improved performance in the second half by the Magpies and just their finishing let them down. Best on the day was Kieran Guest, a citadel of strength in the back line with fellow defender Scott Breaker and the hard running Angus Hambrook earning the coaches plaudits.

Next week the Hahndorf Magpies travel to the far end of Torrens Road to take on Budapest, a side with which Hahndorf has had some highly contested meetings.

Catch up round: Murray Bridge V Hahndorf Magpies

Murray Bridge United V Hahndorf Magpies

Hahndorf travelled up the freeway to take on Murray Bridge and achieved their aim of securing three points in the chase for promotion with a workman–like 2-0 win.

The Hahndorf Magpies went into the catch-up match knowing that a full haul of points would put them in a good position in the chase for promotion and the weight of expectation drew a cautious start from the Magpies. The defence of Scott Taylor, Steve Noble, Luke Guest and Jon Lynn was complimented by Mark McGrath and the defensive unit were on alert early with the hosts keen to impress during the early going.

Aaron Noble, Dan Hermel, Jack Farrimond and Chris Sawers worked their way into the match and provided the play for forwards Leo Santangelo and Kayne Stubing as the Magpies looked to impose themselves in the game. It was a fairly even first twenty-five minutes, with Hahndorf having the better possession and goal scoring opportunities.

However, a resilient Murray Bridge defence kept the Magpies at bay and despite the visitors getting in dangerous positions, the shot selection by Hahndorf was generally wayward. Santangelo almost had the opening goal when he created space at the top of the penalty area and hit a searing shot that passed wide of the target.

Hahndorf persisted and eventually scored a fortuitous goal, Hermel’s cross mishandled by the home ‘keeper and Santangelo needed no second invitation to slot in the loose ball. The goal seemed to calm the nerves of Hahndorf and they produced some scintillating play, moving the ball quickly to leave Murray Bridge chasing shadows.

Sawers was unlucky not to finish a flowing move from defence, S.Noble finding Hermel and he released Stubing wide. The speedster raced past his opponent and put in a centring ball which Sawers met on the volley, the shot passing just wide of the top corner of goal. Hermel also had a chance when Stubing supplied another cross, but the well struck volley picked out the grateful goalkeeper.

After the halftime break, Hahndorf went looking for a second goal, the one nil lead a little precarious in the context of the match. A.Noble and Farrimond began to dominate the middle of the park and Hahndorf used the spacious flanks to get in behind the Murray Bridge defence. The build up play from the Magpies was in contrast to the final pass, the play developing through some neat passing but the delivery into the penalty area was often over hit or picked out defenders.

The Magpies were generally in control at the back and Murray Bridge never really threatened McGrath’s goal but the inkling of an equaliser remained. Several good chances fell to Hahndorf before a piece of individual skill gave Hahndorf the insurance goal it was looking for. Hermel picked up the ball thirty metres from goal and embarked on a diagonal run, rounding two defenders before blasting a shot high into the net from close in.

Hahndorf remained committed to an attacking style and pressed Murray Bridge for a third score, bringing on Jordan Webber to add to the attack. A.Noble almost celebrated his eighteenth birthday in fine style when he volleyed Taylor’s angled cross just wide of the goal with the match entering its final minutes.

The 2-0 win was another valuable three points for the team as they close in on promotion; Man of the match Aaron Noble the midfield catalyst for the Magpies as they worked their way to the final whistle.

Reserves
The Hahndorf Reserves continued on their winning form with a comfortable 5-0 win over Murray Bridge, Jordan Webber hitting a deserved hat-trick to keep the Magpies within touch of second spot.

The Magpies started the match with Nathaniel Brooke in goal, the big ‘keeper behind the defence of Andy Craig, Matt Medley, Mike Lewington and Rupert ‘the Enforcer’ Lindon. In midfield, Kyle Eglinton, John Lawler, Gary Ledson and Jess Konstantinoff provided the base for the attacking spearheads of Ash Parr and Jordan Webber.

Hahndorf took the game to Murray Bridge, the team maintaining possession through some neat passing and use of the wide spaces available. Lawler and Ledson anchored the middle allowing Konstantinoff and Eglinton to range up and down the flanks. Webber and Parr were a constant threat and it was no surprise when Webber scored the opening goal, a nice passage of play resulting in Webber drilling a low shot past the Murray Bridge ‘keeper.

The main avenue of attack for Murray Bridge was through their centre forward, however Lindon and Lewington were at their miserly best to negate the impact of the target man. Hahndorf resumed with the passing game, using the wings to good effect to score a second goal. Konstantinoff linked with Parr and the robust striker put Webber through with a beautifully weighted pass. Webber closed in on goal at an angle before slipping a pass across the 6 yard box to Eglington who had the simplest of tap ins.

Hahndorf emphasised their dominance with a third goal in the half, Parr again the provider for Webber and the indomitable sharpshooter put away Parr’s low cross with a clinical finish. Murray Bridge had no real answers in unlocking the Magpie defence; Brooke was equal to any attempt at goal and the backline only gave the hosts rare glimpses of goal.

The second stanza progressed much like the first with Hahndorf using the space to dictate the match with the midfield in control and the forwards an ever present threat to the Murray Bridge goal. The home side rearranged their formation and could have pulled a goal back but Brooke made a strong save to deny them a score. The Magpies looked comfortable on the ball and built from the back, passing their way to the forward line.

Several substitutions by Hahndorf let Kieran Guest, Ben ‘Beninho’ Wells and Bob Gordon-Edwards enter the match, the trio slotting straight into the Magpie formation. Hahndorf kept the pressure on Murray Bridge but failed to find the target, Konstantinoff going close when he smashed a shot at goal only for Parr to be on the receiving end and deflecting it out of goal.

Webber restored accuracy with his third goal of the day, an incisive individual effort when he beat the ‘keeper to the ball after rounding the last defender. Further chances fell to Lawler, Parr and Konstantinoff but they were unable to trouble the score and Hahndorf wasted a few good attacks with over hit crosses.

Murray Bridge could not pierce the defence of Hahndorf and were kept busy defending in their own half. Pressure by the Magpies resulted in the fifth goal just before full time; ‘Beninho’ Wells putting in a well-placed header after Murray Bridge failed to clear a Hahndorf corner.

The result continues Hahndorf’s push for second spot with John Lawler earning Man of the Match honours for sterling his efforts. The team now turns its focus to the Cup Final against Ingle Farm on Sunday at Hindmarsh Stadium.

Cup Semi final: Hahndorf V Modbury Vista

Hahndorf V Modbury Vista

Hahndorf produced a first half assault on Modbury Vista to book their place in the Cup final, a hat-trick from in-form striker Leo Santangelo laying the foundation for a victorious 5-1 result.

Hindmarsh Stadium was picture perfect on a sunny Sunday; the dry, flat pitch a welcome change from recent surfaces and Hahndorf immediately went on the attack from the opening whistle of the Cup semi final. Earning a corner in the first thirty seconds, Hahndorf struck the opening goal in the third minute, the pace and attack of the Magpie forwards catching Vista on the back foot. Santangelo, Dan Hermel, Tom Holland and Chris Sawers exposed Modbury’s backline before Santangelo struck, his drive squeezing between defender and goalkeeper to get Hahndorf off to a perfect start.

A further three minutes passed in which Hahndorf were unrelenting in attack and doubled their lead, Santangelo once again the scorer, his speed and clinical finishing complimenting a slick move by the Magpies. The Modbury Vista team were stunned but tried to work their way into the match. However, the defence of Kyle Eglinton, Rupert Lindon, Andy Craig and Mike Lewington were equal to the challenge and Magpie ‘keeper Mark McGrath had few troubles.

The Magpies kept up their attack, midfielders Dan Holland and Aaron Noble controlling the middle and releasing Hahndorf’s sharp forward line. Santangelo was in rampant form and combined with T.Holland for Hahndorf’s third goal, Holland making good ground to tap in Santangelo’s cross from close range.

The Magpies made it a memorable twenty minutes when Santangelo completed his hat-trick in fine style. Latching on to a through ball, the marksman bore down on Vista’s goal and slotted away Hahndorf’s fourth score of the match, the cool finish giving Vista’s ‘keeper no chance. It was a stunning opening charge from the Magpies, the forwards and midfielders using their speed, passing and possession to set Vista back on their heels.

Modbury Vista lifted their game and created several chances but they couldn’t get a clear shot on goal, a few shots passing well wide of the goal and those that were on target were comfortably dealt with by McGrath. Central defenders Lewington and Lindon made the Vista forwards earn possession and the Modbury side found the final pass a difficult proposition as they struggled to make an impression on the scoreboard.

Hahndorf were enjoying the match, Noble, Sawers, Hermel and the Holland brothers finding their passing game to win the midfield possession. Hahndorf almost added a fifth just before half time, Santangelo again on the end of a defence splitting pass but he lifted his shot just wide of goal.

In the second half, Hahndorf changed their formation a little to protect their lead and to counter a more attacking opposition, Modbury Vista having little to lose by throwing more players up front. The half developed into a more even affair with both teams using the space on offer to retain the ball and play their way forward.

Lewington was particularly obstructionist to the Vista forwards, the robust defender winning most of the contested balls and dominating the aerial duels. The play ebbed and flowed, neither team able to create a clear chance during the first fifteen minutes of the half.

Hahndorf maintained their passing game, Noble notable for his industrious work in winning and keeping possession while Hermel and Sawers used the spaces on the flanks. The Magpies made their first substitution when T.Holland suffered an injury and was replaced by Gary Ledson. The hard working midfielder was straight into the match as Hahndorf kept the Vista side at bay.

However, with twenty minutes to go, Modbury Vista did get on the scoreboard, the Magpie defence blocking an initial shot but failing to clear it effectively and a Vista forward struck a solid goal to give them a glimmer of hope.

Hahndorf answered the challenge in the best possible way, maintaining their four goal buffer through Noble within five minutes of the restart. The prodigiously talented midfielder won the ball on the edge of the penalty area and unbalanced the defender before drilling a low shot into the corner of goal.

The goal effectively killed off Modbury Vista’s challenge, with players on both teams feeling the effects of the large pitch in combination with the first warm day in recent memory. Hahndorf brought on two more substitutes, Kieran Guest and Jesse Konstantinoff making a valuable appearance at either end of the ground as the Magpies looked to close out the match. Vista tied to add to their score but the Hahndorf defence remained resolute under pressure and gave the northern suburbs side no joy before the referee whistled for full time.

It was an emphatic and deserved victory for Hahndorf, set up by a blistering four goal burst in the opening twenty minutes to take them to the Cup final in two weeks time. All players put in a tremendous effort, the team working as a unit at both ends of the pitch and dictating terms in the middle.

Next week Hahndorf play a League catch up match, a valuable three points on offer at Murray Bridge to maintain the Magpies push for promotion.

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 15: Mt Barker V Hahndorf

Mt Barker V Hahndorf

Hahndorf completed a comfortable win over local rivals Mt Barker, the 4-0 result giving the Magpies a victorious clean sweep in both meetings this season.

The Hahndorf Magpies took little time to settle into the local derby, intent on attack from the outset and making good use of the space available on the large pitch. Forwards Leo Santangelo and Tom Holland put the Mt Barker defence under pressure with Hahndorf’s midfield of Aaron Noble, Jack Farrimond, Kayne Stubing and Dan Hermel dominating from the opening whistle.

The slick, even surface was conducive to the visitors’ quick passing game and they soon took the lead through Santangelo. Out on the flank, Stubing eluded his marker and put in a centring pass to Holland who set up Sanangelo with a neat layoff. The tall forward needed no second invitation and coolly slotted in the goal to get Hahndorf off to a great start.

Magpie custodian Luke Guest had a few Mt Barker attacks to contend with but a formidable defence containing Jon Lynn, Matt Norris, Scott Taylor and Steve Noble were well on top of the host’s forays forward. Mt Barker were under constant pressure from their local rivals and it wasn’t long before Hahndorf had doubled their lead, A.Noble with a precision finish after Stubing tormented the hosts with a fine cross.

Hahndorf kept up their attack, the midfield battle dominated by the engine of Farrimond and ingenuity of A.Noble with Stubing and Hermel exploiting the spacious flanks and finding Sanangelo and Holland. Hahndorf were patient with the ball, prepared to build from the back and switch play across the defensive line.

The Magpies’ endeavour paid off with the third goal of the match. Stubing again sent in a cross into the penalty box and it was poorly dealt with by Mt Barker, leaving Hermel to smash in the goal from close range. Hahndorf should have added more to their score but a combination of errant shooting and a couple of fine saves by the home ’keeper maintained the 3-0 score line at half time.

The visitors began the second half in the same vein as they left the first, the wingers of Hahndorf asking plenty of questions of the Mt Barker defence. Stubing was a constant threat with his pace and quality of delivery, Hahndorf unable to capitalise on a searching ball that slid across the face of goal.

The Magpie defence was rarely under much pressure, Guest playing as much as a deep sweeper as a goalkeeper with Taylor and Norris solid in the middle. As the half developed, Hahndorf maintained an attacking presence, largely pinning Mt Barker in their own half but unable to prise the home side open.

Holland was a busy figure up forward and set up Stubing with a clever short pass but while Stubing’s shot was true, the Mt Barker ‘keeper made a fine diving save to deny a certain score. Santangelo sent a tantalising pass across goal and it just needed the slightest of touches to send it goal-bound, but Hahndorf were unable to lay a boot on it.

Mt Barker applied some possession forward and almost caught out the Magpies but several attempts failed to find the target and Hahndorf regrouped to fortify their rearguard. Believing the best form of defence is attack, the Magpies moved forward with a combination of passes and possession before a clever through ball found Stubing who had ghosted in behind the defence. Advancing on the ‘keeper, Stubing picked his side and slotted home Hahndorf’s fourth goal.

Jordan Webber was brought on; his direct approach another threat for the hosts to contend with. Hahndorf kept attacking, with Lynn almost adding goal of the day with the match in the final ten minutes. With Hahndorf pressing for goal a half clearance fell to club stalwart Lynn and he hit a rasping half volley from 30 metres that crashed off the corner of bar and post.

Several other opportunities fell to Hahndorf but the visitors had to settle for the four-goal win by the final whistle. Man of the Match was Kayne Stubing, the speedster having had a hand in three of the goals before putting on of his own.


Reserves

The Hahndorf Reserves ran out 5-1 winners against an outclassed Mt Barker unit, the win keeping the Magpies in second spot on the ladder.

Glorious sunshine interspersed with the occasional cloud set the scene at Cornerstone College, the two combatant teams eager to gain victory in the local derby. Hahndorf stared brightly, a few exploratory shots looking to find the range and test out the Mt Barker goalkeeper.

The Magpies started Nathaniel Brooke in goal with a defensive line containing Matt Medley, Luke Guest, Ash Parr and Rupert ‘The Enforcer’ Lindon. They looked to bring the ball to a dynamic midfield of Kyle Eglinton, David Grant, Sam Wood and Mike Lewington.

Starting positively, the Magpies adjusted to the slick pitch quickly and soon had Mt Barker on their heels, forwards Max Gordon-Edwards and Jordan Webber closing in on goal but unable to find the opening score. Parr intercepted a Mt Barker clearance to burst forward on the wing and he struck a fierce shot from distance. The ball cannoned off the crossbar and fell to Webber, but the usually accurate forward poked the ball wide. Soon after Lewington was denied from a corner, his header saved on the line by the home ‘keeper.

Hahndorf were fairly well in control of the game but found the final ball elusive, poor shot selection and some stray passes in the final third of the pitch frustrating their efforts. Grant got on the end of a good move but could not find the target. However Hahndorf eventually broke through, a fine corner met with a diving header by Guest and the ball went flying into the Mt Barker net.

The Magpies followed the goal up with some neat build up play before Webber shot directly at the ‘keeper and soon after Gordon Edwards also squandered a chance. Webber regrouped with Hahndorf’s second, a fine cross giving the silent assassin a bullet header from the edge of the 6-yard box.

At 2 nil up, Hahndorf looked to be in control of the match but the home team restored some hope with a converted penalty to make the score 2-1 at half time.

After the break Hahndorf continued to waste their opportunities, Gordon-Edwards and Webber getting in great positions but unable to finish off the good moves. Wood was having a sterling match in midfield and it was his hard work that set up Webber’s second goal, an insightful pass to the rampant forward giving him the chance to tap the ball past the advancing ‘keeper and into the net.

Wood was once again provider soon after, a surgical pass slicing open the Mt Barker defence to find Webber and he made no mistake, holding his composure to slot the ball into the corner of the net and bring up his hat trick. The Magpies found themselves 4-1 up but in truth they could have easily doubled that score but for their profligate finishing.

Jesse Konstantinoff and Gary Ledson entered the match as Hahndorf continued to keep Mt Barker pinned in their own half but the Magpies found the back of the net a harder proposition. Shots from the visitors continued to threaten the Mt Barker goal but for all their dominance, the Magpies struggled to make it count.

Ledson received a good pass from Wood to force a fine save from the home ‘keeper as Hahndorf kept the attacking pressure on Mt Barker. Wood capped off a Man of the Match performance with the final goal, a fine header finding the net after Konstantinoff delivered a pin point cross to the hard working midfielder.

The 5-1 result was a good win for the Hahndorf team, a dominant performance keeping them at the sharp end of the table.

Super Cs

The Div 4 Cs travelled to Greenock, the trip racking up the frequent flyer points but while the team contested well, it was not enough to prevent a 2-0 loss.

The Div 5 Cs had a shorter trip to Sturt Marion but the result was the same, a 2-0 win for the home side, despite stand in custodian Edmondo Palombo doing his best Dino Zoff impersonation.

Next week Hahndorf are at their Pine Avenue home to take on League leaders USC Lion in a potentially season defining match for the Magpies. The Div 4 Cs hosts the Redblue Eagles at Mylor while the Div 5 Cs are at home to the Modbury Jets.

Round 14: Adelaide University V Hahndorf Magpies

Adelaide University V Hahndorf Magpies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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




Reserves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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