Match report

Match report

What a night to see a a clash of first v third with a win to Woodside giving them the 2021 title or making the race for top for all three teams a battle for their last game on Saturday.

Both teams were undermanned using the depth of their clubs to fill their benches with talented players who did not look out of place in this crucial game. As expected both teams started strong with the Rams out to spoil Woodside’s party. Woodside was struck an early blow in the first few minutes with their speedy right midfielder being substituted due to a back injury by his younger brother. Both defenses held strong for the first 20 minutes with Torrens Valley under the greater pressure from Woodside but their keeper had great hands holding all shots. Woodside by now was moving the ball well down both sides and when a well played ball was played into the substitute strikers path he only had the keeper to beat, slotting it home to take the lead. Again both teams lifted a gear; Woodside to increase the lead and Torrens Valley to close the gap. As the half closed Woodside’s defence and hard working midfield looked in control, but the second half would bring the Ram’s major playmaker onto the field after a half in goals. At half time Woodside were in front 1:0.

The second half saw both teams release their keepers. Offering Torrens Valley greater attacking opportunities down both flanks, but Woodside the speed to cover them both. The Rams started to attack down the right but the Woodside left back stood tall closing the gap between him and his opponent and stopping many plays. Woodside still managed to create opportunities in-front of goals but great keeping and off target shots kept the lead to 1. With the pressure came more corners and Woodside were looking threatening. In one instance a chip to the front post was headed just wide of the goal that next time was covered by the Rams but the ball unfortunately dipped hit the player on the hip and bounded into the net as an unfortunate goal. The Rams lifted again looking for that goal and when they were presented a free kick outside the box only a scrambling header denied any shot on goal. Woodside moved its running right back upfront and the play payed off as he found himself running into the box when he was bustled to the ground and a penalty given. Taking the penalty himself he slotted it home and gave his team a three goal lead. As the game came to a close, Woodside had another opportunity when the ball hit the left post rebounded into the path of the young right midfielder who struck it beautifully only to hit the right post. Shortly after that play, that’s how the game finished but Torrens Valley should be commended for their grit and determination for all 80 minutes making it an exciting game. To the U13's that filled in you fitted into the Woodside team and style of play and both should be commended for your work rate and commitment in helping out the team.

This win sealed Woodside the title of league winners.