The u8s Round 11 clash between Hahndorf and Torrens Valley was played with great enthusiasm from both teams. Hahndorf's continued improvement saw a great game with all players contributing to the solid team performance against Torrens Valley Soccer Club.
It was a great morning for soccer with the match played at the Hahndorf Soccer pitch. Hahndorf won the toss with Carter Hartley kicking the ball to Soren Mickan to start the game.
Joshua Blain was goalie and defended the ball keeping Torrens Valley goalless for the first half.
Hahndorf were strong in attack and found the back of the net when Levi Neumann kicked the first goal following a great pass from Mickan. Violet Mitchell, Ali Semple and Owen Hoyle were persistant through the midfield which resulted in Mickan scoring another goal for Hahndorf.
Hahndorf were out of the blocks quickly with Mickan scoring soon after the kick off to the second half.
Great support and teamwork from Rosie Semple and Hartley kept pushing the ball forward and Oliver Knight ran the ball forward and kicked an amazing lofty ball to score the final goal.
Neumann played goalie for the second half and kept the ball out of the net for keeping Torrens Valley scoreless to the final whistle.
A great game with all players having the opportunity to show their improving skills.
The game this week consisted of two teams of equal strength battling it out for the win!
Our teams defence was very strong with many goals saved by our team. Everyone in the team tried their very best.
We are starting to play so much better as a team and its great to see!
The result was 2-0 and it was a very exciting game to watch!
What a nailbiter!
Second time we have played this team with a big improvement this week. Our defence was strong and working well as a team with everyone defending really well.
Samuel, Joshua and Jonah were strong in defence saving many goals from going in. Elliot ran super fast with his fancy footwork and kept the other team on their toes!
Arlo and Morgana saved the day as goaly by making sure those goals stayed out.
Hayden and Sadie backed up their teammates and overall the score was 2-0 but a vast improvement!
We had good game today. We were short on players and thanks to Hahndorf for lending players so all the kids were on the pitch. Hahndorf had a few attempts at goal but Hardy stood his ground in goals and stopped all attempts in the first half. We played hard in defence and but did not manage a goal either.
The second half again Hahndorf attacked the ball and and had a few attempts at goal but William saved a few of those one in spectacular style. We kept our eye on the ball and spread out over the field in this half. We kept on trying and having fun but Hahndorf were the better team on the day.
Beautiful morning at Hahndorf home ground for round 11 of the 2020 season. The Hahndorf white team has shown great progress with their working together skills during the game and stand on top of the table for this season. Today's game started 8:30am between Hahndorf and Woodside with Hahndorf sporting a full team and sharing a player with the Woodside team who were short.
Both team started really well for the first half of the game Cohen Whinfield showing some strong play in the midfield. Thomas Gould kicked first shot towards to goal but defensive goal keeper saved it very well from Woodside. Hahndorf kept the ball in Woodside's half of the ground for most of the first half with Josh Petitt kicking the ball to goal a number of time, but with no success. Hahndorf got the first corner shot but couldn’t convert into a goal. Passes between players from both teams have been great. Woodside crept in Hahndorf's half for their first kick by number 12 at goal but great save by Simran Singh kept the score nil all. Archie Greene hit the ground running after starting off first sub, with great footwork to take the ball near goal, but another unsuccessful shot at goal. Hahndorf dominated the 1st half but the scores are still nil all. Benjamin Kowald showed some real improvement this week with some clear passes and great defensive efforts, Tyson Bancroft and Jamie Timmins both taking turns to move the ball down towards the Hahndorf scoring end. Connor Ozolins returning from illness played a strong game, defending out goal well in the second half in his turn as keeper.
Half time and a break for for oranges.
Hahndorf started the second half strong and within the first 2 mins approached the goal with great passes between boys. Gould lines up and kicks into goal again but another great save by the Woodside goal keeper kept him scoreless. Finally Hahndorf managed to convert off a great kick by Gould for their first goal. The Woodside team comeback straightaway with some strong offence and kick their first goal past the Hahndorf keeper to level the score one all.
As the game heads into the final stages Gould scores his second and third goals and Petitt boots one past the goalie for his first goal of the game. Hahndorf took aim with three back to back corners but couldn't covert into more goals.
Great competitive game from both teams. Thank you to Bancroft, Kowald, Greene and Timmins for great sportsmanship in taking turns filling in for Woodside.
Thomas Stapleton was solid in goal. Billy Cook and Will Tully also created some chances.
In the 2nd half Lawson started in goal with Eddie, Billy and Harry making up the defence. After some good build up play Joel and Thomas added to the goal tally. The game was played in good spirit.
Woodside Warriors Under 12 Reds travelled to Mt Barker Red's home ground for another early start on a beautiful Spring morning.
The game started with both teams pushing the ball positively throughout their midfields and a majority of the play was fought out in neutral territory. At around the 10 minute mark Woodside started to navigate through the Mt Barker defenders which resulted in Josh Contstable receiving a steady good supply of opportunities through Finn Craddock and Elliot Klein. Constable had a number of shots on goal however, cruelly failed to slot one to the back of the net. Jordan Virgara and Jamie Spooner controlled both wings and provided good intercept points to ensure that the Warrior's forward press continued to trouble Mt Barker's defense. The Woodside coach had shuffled the deck and started Rojo Nambiar in central defense which allowed Gracie Llyod and Thomas Honner an opportunity to spend more time in the midfield. Nambiar's intense work rate gave the Warriors very quick counter attacks and with an abundant supply, the Woodside forwards were rewarded with 2 quick goals to Contsable and Klein. The Warriors started to settle into the groove of the game and shortly after opening their accounts for the day, Constable and Klein added another 2 more carefully placed goals past the Mt Barker keeper allowing a 4-0 buffer at the half time break. Mount Barker started the second half strongly and the Warriors found the ball deeper into their defence and eventually generated a ball that dangerously floated around Axel Vassos's goal mouth was scrapped into goals allowing Mt Barker to register their first well deserved goal for the game. This was the turning point for the Warriors and from this moment forward took control of the game. Nate Dealtry and Finn Randall held the defensive line solidly which allowed the midfield to stream freely through Virgara, Spooner, Honner and Llyod. Klein weaved masterfully through the sea of defenders and registered his hatrick which was fitting for the Captain who had led his team by example all morning. Lloyd, growing with confidence with every minute she is on the pitch pounced on a loose ball and skilfully navigated her strike well past the Barker keeper's outstretched arms chalking her first goal for the season. The Warriors team were in a state of a euphoria and all rushed to rally around Lloyd to celebrate this awesome milestone were devastated to see an unwarranted offside flag held from the sidelines in the air. The positive football forward presses continued and Nambiar's crackerjack strike netted his first goal for the morning. Craddock had been working hard all morning and crafted an ingenious forward through pass to Constable which allowed him to pick up a well-deserved hattrick through some slick passing and gut running goal finishing which were impossible to impede. Full time resulted in well carved out 7-1 victory to the Warriors.
Woodside Warriors Under 12 Reds travelled to Mt Barker Red's home ground for another early start on a beautiful Spring morning.
The game started with both teams pushing the ball positively throughout their midfields and a majority of the play was fought out in neutral territory. At around the 10 minute mark Woodside started to navigate through the Mt Barker defenders which resulted in Josh Contstable receiving a steady good supply of opportunities through Finn Craddock and Elliot Klein. Constable had a number of shots on goal however, cruelly failed to slot one to the back of the net. Jordan Virgara and Jamie Spooner controlled both wings and provided good intercept points to ensure that the Warrior's forward press continued to trouble Mt Barker's defense. The Woodside coach had shuffled the deck and started Rojo Nambiar in central defense which allowed Gracie Llyod and Thomas Honner an opportunity to spend more time in the midfield. Nambiar's intense work rate gave the Warriors very quick counter attacks and with an abundant supply, the Woodside forwards were rewarded with 2 quick goals to Contsable and Klein. The Warriors started to settle into the groove of the game and shortly after opening their accounts for the day, Constable and Klein added another 2 more carefully placed goals past the Mt Barker keeper allowing a 4-0 buffer at the half time break. Mount Barker started the second half strongly and the Warriors found the ball deeper into their defence and eventually generated a ball that dangerously floated around Axel Vassos's goal mouth was scrapped into goals allowing Mt Barker to register their first well deserved goal for the game. This was the turning point for the Warriors and from this moment forward took control of the game. Nate Dealtry and Finn Randall held the defensive line solidly which allowed the midfield to stream freely through Virgara, Spooner, Honner and Llyod. Klein weaved masterfully through the sea of defenders and registered his hatrick which was fitting for the Captain who had led his team by example all morning. Lloyd, growing with confidence with every minute she is on the pitch pounced on a loose ball and skilfully navigated her strike well past the Barker keeper's outstretched arms chalking her first goal for the season. The Warriors team were in a state of a euphoria and all rushed to rally around Lloyd to celebrate this awesome milestone were devastated to see an unwarranted offside flag held from the sidelines in the air. The positive football forward presses continued and Nambiar's crackerjack strike netted his first goal for the morning. Craddock had been working hard all morning and crafted an ingenious forward through pass to Constable which allowed him to pick up a well-deserved hattrick through some slick passing and gut running goal finishing which were impossible to impede. Full time resulted in well carved out 7-1 victory to the Warriors.
Woodside Warriors Under 12 Reds travelled to Mt Barker Blue's home ground for another early start on a beautiful Spring morning.
The game started with both teams pushing the ball positively throughout their midfields and a majority of the play was fought out in neutral territory. At around the 10 minute mark Woodside started to navigate through the Mt Barker defenders which resulted in Josh Contstable receiving a steady good supply of opportunities through Finn Craddock and Elliot Klein. Constable had a number of shots on goal however, cruelly failed to slot one to the back of the net. Jordan Virgara and Jamie Spooner controlled both wings and provided good intercept points to ensure that the Warrior's forward press continued to trouble Mt Barker's defense. The Woodside coach had shuffled the deck and started Rojo Nambiar in central defense which allowed Gracie Llyod and Thomas Honner an opportunity to spend more time in the midfield. Nambiar's intense work rate gave the Warriors very quick counter attacks and with an abundant supply, the Woodside forwards were rewarded with 2 quick goals to Contsable and Klein. The Warriors started to settle into the groove of the game and shortly after opening their accounts for the day, Constable and Klein added another 2 more carefully placed goals past the Mt Barker keeper allowing a 4-0 buffer at the half time break. Mount Barker started the second half strongly and the Warriors found the ball deeper into their defence and eventually generated a ball that dangerously floated around Axel Vassos's goal mouth was scrapped into goals allowing Mt Barker to register their first well deserved goal for the game. This was the turning point for the Warriors and from this moment forward took control of the game. Nate Dealtry and Finn Randall held the defensive line solidly which allowed the midfield to stream freely through Virgara, Spooner, Honner and Llyod. Klein weaved masterfully through the sea of defenders and registered his hatrick which was fitting for the Captain who had led his team by example all morning. Lloyd, growing with confidence with every minute she is on the pitch pounced on a loose ball and skilfully navigated her strike well past the Barker keeper's outstretched arms chalking her first goal for the season. The Warriors team were in a state of a euphoria and all rushed to rally around Lloyd to celebrate this awesome milestone were devastated to see an unwarranted offside flag held from the sidelines in the air. The positive football forward presses continued and Nambiar's crackerjack strike netted his first goal for the morning. Craddock had been working hard all morning and crafted an ingenious forward through pass to Constable which allowed him to pick up a well-deserved hattrick through some slick passing and gut running goal finishing which were impossible to impede. Full time resulted in well carved out 7-1 victory to the Warriors.
It was Woodside V Woodside when undefeated U12 Blue hosted U12 Gold at the Fortress on Saturday morning. And a beautiful morning it was too – Broken cloud and mild weather brought a welcome change from the relative heat of the previous week and the relative sludge-fest of the one before that. This was always going to be a big challenge for U12 Gold in their first year on the big pitch, but they had made a pact with themselves to fight and scrap for every ball and show the bigger kids what they were made of! And that is precisely what they did!
When the ref blew his whistle to get the day started, it was clear that Blue hadn’t gotten the memo about Gold’s grit and determination. Perhaps anticipating an easy contest, Blue were going one-out with the belief that individual brilliance would be enough to break through. But it wasn’t. Football is a team game and it wasn’t until they got the ball moving that they threatened to goal. Even when they got organized and did this, Gold had all the answers, shepherding their opponents away from goal and clearing the ball from danger. And when their strikers got on the end of it they repeatedly threatened to upset the apple cart by stealing an early lead. Though the game ebbed and flowed for the duration of the first half, neither side could find a way to score and we went to the break deadlocked at nil all.
When play returned, Blue unleashed some fresh legs on their tiring opponents. Their leading goal scorer was one of the fresh bodies, and he set to work building on his impressive season tally. But although this goal-scoring wizard ran with speed and power and intent, he was taken away from the onion bag time and again by the uncompromising tenacity and will of an army of hobbits defending their homeland. But although he couldn’t find a way through, his team mates did – finally capitalized on a scrappy ball to hack one into the net. A second followed soon after as a delicate lob cleared the goal-keepers outstretched hands. But the hobbits rallied again, making life harder and harder for their opponents. Gold’s goal keepers deserve special mention here. In the first half, a clean sheet was kept. In the second, the young man employed every part of his body in a desperate bid to defend his net. This ultimately threatened his fathering potential as he saved a blistering close-range shot, only to be left staggering in pain and unable to block the follow-up shot. But credit must also be paid to Woodside Warriors U12 Blue. Once they had settled into the game they showed their ability to play classy football – their passing game is crisp and accurate – they play with structure and discipline – and to a player, they are willing to share the ball for the greater good. Their usual goal-scorers were taken out of the game this week, being mobbed whenever they touched the ball. But instead of becoming frustrated, they showed a willingness to adapt. On multiple occasions, they played wide and sent the ball in to their team-mates. It was this unselfishness that set up the goal of the match when an inch-perfect cross from the left wing was expertly deflected into the net to cap a deserved victory.
Two of the Woodside Warriors U12 teams played off this weekend in a clash of the Warriors, Blue V Gold. The whistle blew, the clash began, and determination could be seen on the faces of both teams. Blue were quick to gain control and run towards goal, but Gold were having none of that and swarmed around the ball making it difficult for Blue to get through. Golds persistence and continuous defense saw them steal the ball away from Blue and run with it down the pitch. Blues Morgan Burroughes, Oliver Boerth and James Lunnon ramped up their defense, regained control of the ball and sent it back down towards their goal. Gold players continued to swarm around the ball and make their presence known. There was lots of play in the middle of the pitch as both teams fought to gain control. Blue player Jesse Mewett made a sneaky pass out to Max Davis who then turned and ran with it down the wing but as he got closer to goal a Gold player charged in from across the pitch and kicked the ball out of play. Gold were determined to stop Blue from scoring and that they did with a score of nil all at half time. A team chat at half time break made Blue realise they had to lift their game if they wanted to walk away with a win. Both teams went into the second half desperate for their team to score the first goal. Blues Will Limbert found a gap in Golds defense and got the ball to Mack Olsson who put boot to ball and scored the first goal for the game 3 minutes into the second half. Once that first goal was kicked Blues players came alive and went all in. Blues continued to regain control of the ball and Olsson went on to kick another 2 goals. Golds goalie didn’t make it easy on him though and deflected the first couple attempts. Blues Players Ryan Sutton, Poppy Thomas and Eddie Moylan applied pressure in midfield slowing down Golds play. Barnaby Bevan was quick on his feet to snatch up a loose ball and kick it of to teammate Domenico Silvestri, but Gold defense closed in on him and forced the ball over the line and out of play. Blues Sidney Cotton had his eyes on the ball at all times and when he saw the ball go across the goal face he charged in, got boot to ball and sunk it into the back corner of the net to score goal number four for Blue. Cotton then finished it off with another goal just a few minutes before the final whistle. Gold team never gave up and made the Blue team work extremely hard for their win.
A sunny but cool morning greeted spectators and players in the Round 12 clash between Mount Barker Red and Murray Bridge Gold. Mt Barker were coming off a solid win the previous week against Nairne, whilst Murray Bridge were keen to get their first win for the season
The game started with possession swinging end to end. Murray Bridge were playing the ball wide and probing deep into Mount Barkers defensive zone. Mt Baker's defensive line held as they now moved the ball up the middle. Mount Barker began to control the ball and held their structure. This allowed them space and the ball was delivered into Murray Bridges penalty area. With weight of numbers Mt Barker's Liam Dunn opened his account on the 8min mark with an opportunistic shot to give Mt Barker an early 1-0 lead.
From here, Mt Barker seemed to compose themselves and began to put successive passes together. As they moved the ball forward, Remarni Puiatti shot true to move the score to 2-0 after 11mins. With their confidence high and players adhering to their coaches instruction, Mt Barker gained the ascendency with a 3rd goal at 17mins. The ever keen Liam Dunn bagging his second for the match.
This goal was quickly followed by another on the 22min mark by Jonty Burzacott who was playing a blinder on the left midfield. Mt Barker now had their heads up and players were queuing to get the name on the scoreboard. Of course one player, Liam Dunn was also keen to secure his second hat-trick for the season and at the 26th minute, he did just that, slotting the ball low and left to take his team into halftime with a commanding 5-0 lead.
Mt Barkers coach made several positional changes at half time. He moved the 2 centre-fullbacks up to the strikers position with a clear mandate for the team to help get these players their first goals in a game of soccer. They did not disappoint and at the 32min Colin Paterson secured his first ever goal in soccer. Always a memorable moment for the player and parents.
From the restart, Mt Barker quickly secured possession and control of the game. Centre Midfielder, Liam Hawkins was controlling the centre well and directing play. His effort was rewarded with a great goal after 39mins and Mount Barker were now 7-0 in the lead.
Murray Bridge persisted and their persistence paid off when after a fast break their skillful #5 Grady Makangira fired a great shot into the net to get his team on the board. This also provided a much needed confidence boost. At the 45min mark 7-1.
Henry Main who has played all his games for Mount Barker in the backline had been given an opportunity to play up front in the strikers position. His effort was rewarded after he pounced on a loose ball and tapped it past the keeper into the net to secure his first goal in a game of soccer. The team had achieved its coaches half-time mandate!
Not to be outdone, Henry’s fellow striker then made a great fast break and bagged his second goal of the match after 52mins. This goal was quickly followed by another opportunistic shot by Jamison Henke who had now been moved into the centre position. This was also Jamison's first goal of the season.
At fulltime Mount Barker claimed victory with a comfortable and well deserved win. The coaches agreed the game was played in good spirits and was entertaining to watch
In Round 12 Mount Barker will face off against Murray Bridge Blue and Murray Bridge Gold will compete against Hahndorf White.
Players and spectators were presented with great weather at the 10.30 game between Hahndorf Under 12 White, and Stirling United at Hahndorf’s home ground on Saturday 5th of September.
From kick-off, Levi Beasley, Harrison Gould, Emlyn Gilroy, and Hayden Lien went on the attack. Stirling also pushed forward again and again against Hahndorf’s solid defence line consisting of Jasper Jones, Patrick Hinze, Harry Mumford; backed up by goal keeper Ryder Hill.
Stirling achieved their first goal at the 4 minute mark; which was countered one minute later by an absolute cracker goal driven home by Beesley. Soon after Stirling scored its second goal and the game was on.
Zoe York read play well, taking a pass which she forwarded to Oliver Dahmke who punched the ball through the pack of Stirling defenders. Likewise, Hayden Lien and Gilroy, supported by Jacob Gardiner, Harrison Gould, and Dante Man pushed forward time and again but were simply unlucky to not convert their efforts into a goal. Seventeen minutes into the first half, standout play saw an almost certain Stirling goal ferociously blocked by Gardiner’s agile feet.
At the 20 minute mark Stirling’s 4th goal found its mark. It took 3 attempts from close range by Stirling to succeed. Hahndorf goalie Hill reacted and defended like a machine.
Lien’s quick thinking converted a great opportunity into Hahndorf’s 2nd goal.
By half time the score was 5 – 2 in Stirling’s favour.
Two obvious crowd pleasers stood out toward the end of the last half by Hahndorf players. Man shifting to defence, produced a high kick that achieved a goal line clearance that otherwise would have surely resulted in another mark on the scoreboard by Stirling. Also not to be missed was Gilroy’s instinctive cross into goals which was cleverly set up by York and Lien.
By the end of the match the spectators witnessed great determined play by all on field, resulting in a match of soccer to remember. The score was 8 – 3 to Stirling.
Hahndorf Under 12 White wish to thank Stirling United Under 12 for the game played Saturday 29 August 2020.
The last time these two teams met it was round two but a lot of games have been played since. Stirling Districts were second on goal differences so as one parent mentioned this was both team's grand final.
When the opening whistle sounded it was evident both teams were there to win. Both teams had great passages of play as they tried to find that elusive first goal. It was Stirling districts quick forwards that had the Woodside defense scrambling and after a great run Stirling Districts found the net to take the lead. Woodside as always lifted a gear and continued to apply their own pressure down both flanks but District’s defence held strong. As the half was drawing to an end Woodside’s opponents were awarded an indirect free kick outside their penalty box that the Woodside defense charged down and denied district’s their second. Moments later Woodside were awarded their own free kick outside their opponents penalty box that Stirling managed to defend away. At half time Woodside were down 1:0.
The second half started off as frantic as the first with Woodside continuing to play the better soccer but not rewarded for their efforts. Stirling Districts continued to play hard and after a ball was not cleared quickly enough Districts pounced and scored their second. Woodside were not to be denied and doubled their efforts and after a well taken corner the ball found the back of the net. Woodside were back in the game. With a new found hope the Warriors again put their opponents under extreme pressure. After a scrappy encounter on the goal line a scrambling Districts keeper scooped the ball back into play and play continued to the shock of the Warrior players, but a referee's decision is final and play continued. Woodside continued to battle a physical opposition but kept their heads held high, continued to play their style of football and stay true to themselves. As the final whistle sounded Stirling Districts managed to scrape a win and give Woodside its first defeat of the season.
At the end of the game a tired and battle weary Warriors team were surrounded by a proud group of parents who had watched their children continue to play a positive and rewarding brand of football.
Well done to the Woodside Warriors Red who achieved a strong win which came well deserved after the great improvements everyone has made over the last months! Murray Bridge played a good game but struggled to shut down some of the spacing and passing that our team has been practicing. There were some very strong passages of play on our side with great triangulation and passing accuracy. It was a game where we could experiment as we controlled a lot of the play.
Cooper again played a strong position in centre defence with Cohenn helping to cover Murray Bridges fast attack. Ruby again played a strong defensive line with Manny playing a very creative defence, with several plays bringing the ball forward with Cohenn smartly behind. Banjo had some great saves, playing in Keeper the whole match, and continued to improve in reading the play and knowing where to be.
Our strength really came through the midfield again, which gave our attackers plenty of opportunities to push on the goal, and pressure the Murray Bridge defence. George shone yet again with some very determined tackling and thoughtful and accurate passing. Riley V pressure the ball with great determination and speed, and managed to work in some tricky passing with Riley T and Ruby on that side. Again, Lysiane controlled the midfield and moved people strategically, reading the play and opening opportunities for all. Bob roamed strongly in Centre Attacking Midfield again, keeping the ball moving and was ready for crosses in the centre, positioning himself very well. Flynn moved tirelessly and showed his dribbling prowess and passing accuracy on several occasions.
Ryan yet again read the play perfectly, outclassed many of the Murray Bridge players, and slid the ball through for more goals yet again. It was great to see a ‘Manny Magic’ ball make its way to Ryans head for a professionally scored header!
It was satisfying to see how unselfish our players are, with support being there when needed and balls passed to everyone quickly and accurately. The success of this type of play creates a strong team that becomes unbeatable as the timing and accuracy of passing and positioning improves. We are not there yet, but there are glimpses of a strong team coming through. The success of this approach was shown where George, Lysiane and Bob were all able to score a goal despite not being regular attackers on goal. Well done Reds!
Earlier in the season, Stirling United and Strathalbyn drew 3-3 so this rematch was expected to be another tense affair. The sun was out, and for once the wind stayed away from the open expanses of the Strathalbyn polo grounds, making for perfect conditions for a game of football.
Unlike last week, Stirling started the game strongly and were clearly switched on for the contest. Controlling the ball well with many connecting passes allowed them to press into the Strath half, but stout defence prevented any real chances. In fact the best chance of the early going saw the ever dangerous Kalan Brooks break forward for Strath but his shot just went wide.
In the 14th minute, a perfectly delivered corner from Araby Phelan saw the ball fall for Ky Henry to chest it into the goal, giving Stirling the lead. Shortly after, a corner from Nik Smith provided another opportunity but this time Strath were able to hold it out.
Stirling continued to string together lovely passages of play, with Phelan having a chance which went over the top, as did a free kick chance from Henry. At half time the 1-0 lead held by Stirling kept Strath in the game but didn’t reflect the dominance that Stirling had shown in the first period.
As the second half progressed, the tension grew for both sides. Emily Bouchereau had a great chance after a strong run but her shot bounced off the near post. Phelan had another opportunity that was well saved by the keeper. However with only one goal separating the sides, up the other end, the presence of Brooks meant the Stirling defence needed to be constantly alert for a quick ball forward. Brooks had a great chance to equalise and was only denied by a great block from Stirling keeper Ryan Stevens.
After a prolonged period of pressure from Stirling, the Strath defence was finally broken when Henry scored his second after a cross found him open straight in front. This seemed to ease the tension in the Stirling side and they continued to press, and a late penalty saw Bouchereau score her first for the season, immediately followed by a cheeky chip from Henry Monaghan from long range that saw Stirling take the win 4-0, a fair result given the control Stirling had throughout the contest. This was certainly a game where you could confidently say all played well in a great all round team effort.
Top of the ladder Hahndorf hosted Woodside Warriors on a sunny afternoon in Hahndorf. In the first 10 minutes, the intensity was high and both sides had plenty of the ball. Hahndorf's 'keeper James Bagley saved a great corner kick from Woodside and the pressure kept mounting. Woodside scored at the 10-minute mark from a good run from the forwards. Hahndorf's defence was tested early with Josh Rayner, Alex Montagu and Kit Erhart-Bruce stopping the Woodside forwards. Woodside's 2nd goal came from a perfectly lobbed ball that beat Bagley. Xavier Kell took on the Woodside midfield and twice ran through the defences but was unable to convert. Kyle Fenlon was busy as usual as he pushed forward on a number of occasions. Toby Boekel was brought on and made an impact straight away stopping the Woodside forwards with some great defensive play. Jackson Doley was solid in the midfield and had a crack at the goal near the end of the half, narrowly missing the goal. Woodside scored its 3rd goal with a penetrating kick into the back of the net, which Bagley couldn't stop. At 3-Nil Hahndorf didn't stop running and finally Angus Mason set up Fenlon who penetrated the defence with a nice run and kick, scoring Hahndorf's only goal for the game.
Hahndorf came out in the second half with something to prove but was unable to find the back of the net, despite having a number of opportunities in front of the goal. Eddie Hardingham made an impact with a few runs forward but the Woodside defenders stood firm. Fenlon tried to break the defence but was out-numbered and stopped on a number of occasions. Rayner, David Nielsen, Oakley Lockyer and Montagu were busy in defence as they also stopped advances by the Woodside forwards. Hayden Abrahams found himself in front of goal from a nicely weighted kick but Woodside's keeper stopped his attempt. Hahndorf's coach James Kerr tried a few moves in the second half but his players could only hold Woodside scoreless. The game finished on a sour note with an injury to Kell, who was stretchered off before the referee blew the whistle for a 1-3 win to the visiting team.
By Dean Bagley
“Best. Game. Ever.”
A predominantly older and more experienced Hahndorf U16 team hosted a seemingly ever-developing Woodside team on Saturday afternoon with some dandy spring weather
The home team, based at Pine Avenue in Hahndorf, has the luxury of a clean sheet of games for their 10 games played thus far, the only blemish going as far back as Round 1 when they drew with Murray Bridge at Beatty Terrace.
Meanwhile the away team, Woodside, have taken their time finding their feet. Their round four clash with Hahndorf was the third loss to their name over the four games played. That was followed by light wins over Rangers and Strathalbyn followed by a small 0-1 loss against powerhouse Stirling United, then a draw against then second-placed Murray Bridge.
Despite Woodside’s recent improvement they were still very much the underdogs. No one was putting their money on a fifth placed most improved team up against a lossless ladder leader.
Woodside’s Coach, BRUCE TONKIN, arrived late from an earlier Senior’s game. He had completely underestimated the travel time between Blackwood and Hahndorf, and arrived with 10 minutes to spare before kick-off. Going straight into a pre-game discussion, he essentially wrote off all chances of a win. Even a draw was beyond comprehension.
But you don’t have to kick more goals than the opposition to win. As always the team simply set their sights on playing better football than the week before. If they could do that, if they could walk off the pitch with a deep satisfaction that they did everything they could, then they were never going to lose, regardless of what it says on the score board.
Woodside took to the pitch with Captain ASHER HAMMAT opting to go downhill to start with.
From kick-off Hahndorf seemed relaxed whilst Woodside was determined. Either approach can be the basis for a win. In this case determination came through with the goods and, in the 5th minute, Woodside’s TOBY VINCENT sunk the first goal of the day after a solid pass from JETT TONKIN.
An early 1-0 lead, with 75 minutes of remaining play, is certainly nothing to get excited about though.
A mere ten minutes later Woodside’s youngest player delivered their second goal of the game. EDDIE HERMAN, who was 13 years old at the start of the year and subsequently qualifies for U14, has had a very exciting season being the team’s highest goal scorer.
Being 2-0 up with 25 minutes of play in the first half was never going to sit well for the away team. Hahndorf has the ability to turn things around rather suddenly as they did in the second half the last time they played them.
On the 34th minute, TOBY VINCENT delivered his second and Woodside’s third goal for the day. Vincent, with his trademark style of play, lends himself as a forward. However he has been rather unfortunate with numerous misses over the season. A quick mid-week focused training session with Assistant Coach, MATT THODAY, returned his confidence. It was unfortunate Thoday wasn’t there to witness it.
With Hahndorf rattled, down 3 goals against a significantly lower-level team, Woodside Coach took the opportunity to rest defender JOSH VASSOS. Replacing him was TOMMAS BALACCO who was probably content watching the game from the sidelines, went out onto the pitch cold.
Hahndorf player KYLE FENLON, seizing the opportunity via some quality assistance from ANGUS MASON, pocketed a goal with two minutes of play remaining in the first half.
By half time the scores were 3-1 in Woodside’s favour.
Whilst Hahndorf disappeared into their change rooms, the half time talk by Woodside Coach very much consisted of the fact that the game isn’t over and that the opposition would enter another 40 minutes with the steep gradient of the Hahndorf pitch falling in their favour. The younger Woodside boys would certainly feel it whilst the Hahndorf lot would utilise it.
But the second half finished scoreless by both teams. Hahndorf challenged Woodside’s defenders but could never convert. Woodside had the higher possession but could never convert. Woodside’s TOMMAS BALACCO enjoyed some time up the front, whilst IZEYAH RAYMOND played out his last game in almost every position possible.
In a sour note for the home team the game finished with XAVIER KELL stretchered off with an injury. The injury, not inflicted by any Woodside player, has been an ongoing issue for Kell over the season. Woodside wishes him well for his recovery.
The scoreline remained, 3-1 in favour of the away team, one goal short of BILLY WILSON’s dad’s eager and somewhat unbelievable prediction of 4-1.
“Best. Game. Ever.”, stated Woodside Coach BRUCE TONKIN post-game. “The boys utilised two mistakes made by Hahndorf, which was in line with the halves. In the first half it was clear that most of them were suffering from the dreaded c-word – complacency. They simply weren’t expecting a refined opposition determined to outclass them in every way possible. In the second half their morale dropped, something they hadn’t been challenged on this season. With the slope in their favour, up against a team their junior, they could have easily delivered a couple of goals in the second. They will have learned and they’ll no doubt be solid over their remaining games because of it. Either way the season is more than likely theirs, so congratulations is in order.”
There wasn’t one Woodside player not deserving of an accolade for the game, although keeper SAM HERMAN had little to do. JAMES RENSHAW held his own when replacing CHRIS COLLINS. MASON DUNOW delivered quality as expected. ISAIAH HAMMAT showed promise. AIDEN SUTTON having had a week off came out firing as well.
But, drum roll please, BENJAMIN BAILES collected the best and fairest nomination for the game. Under pressure his play was always clean and calculated. IZEYAH RAYMOND delivered a notable performance, whilst TOBY VINCENT played an integral part of the victory.
In the next round Woodside will have a rest with a BYE whilst Hahndorf will take on Rangers at Ashton Oval.
A bright and sunny afternoon welcomed these two teams for the third time this season. Both teams looked ready to go from the first whistle. Many plays were made by both teams to be able to score a goal, but it wasn't until the thirteenth minute that any action would occur. Rani Loizi took her shot on goal for Stirling District and her straight aim and incredible strength put the Stirling team ahead for a short period of time.
Half way through the first half both coaches could be heard to lament on the never ending corner saga that was happening for Hahndorf, but the outcome of the final corner was a goal for Hahndorf. This momentum held for their team and they followed through with two more goals in the second half of the game.
The Stirling team left the field deflated, but listened to the wise words of their coach and will be back and ready to go again next weekend.
The scene was set for a tough contest between Stirling and Hahndorf Under 13 girls. Many in the crowd remembered their last encounter when Stirling snatched victory late in the game. The weather was perfect, the pitch looked great and the neatness of the line markings a credit to those responsible.
The game had a tense start with both teams defending well and minimising risky plays.Just when Hahndorf appeared to be getting on top Stirling goaded at the 15 minute mark. Six minutes later Gracie Curtis hammered home the equaliser. Earlier Gracie provided numerous opportunities from well placed corner kicks that were well repelled by ever present defenders. It was 1 all at half time.
The second half started with purpose from both teams . Stirling had already demonstrated their ability to score against the trend of play and the Hahndorf defence was up to the challenge. Esther Van De Gaer, Ava Papadopoulos and Isabella Czukli had special moments and all defenders played their part.Eloise Cutting had a number of promising attacks and goaled at the 20 minute mark of the second half after support from Jemma Langford. At one time the Hahndorf team had 8 consecutive corner kicks with Grace Haynes taking most of them and providing opportunities to some eager attackers. Hahndorf looked the stronger team all game and with minutes to go Morenike Kelly kicked a memorable goal. This made it 3 to 1 at full time. The Hahndorf midfield ran hard all day and deserve special recognition as does the goalkeeper Charlotte Fairley who delivered big clearing kicks following saves.
The game was played in great spirit and both teams gave their all.
While the Spring weather was jolly, the atmosphere was tense as the Strikers faced their closest neighbour, Mount Barker. The game was held on their home ground, at Anembo Park.
The game started with the speed of lightning, with the Strikers’ Brooklyn Rigney scoring the opening goal two minutes in. Even though Brooklyn had given her team an advantage, it was surprisingly close in the early game. Mount Barker attacked just as fiercely as the Strikers, Charlotte Reid in defence working hard. The two teams wrestled for possession, with Layla Frahn securing the ball and shooting, but her kick was blocked. Mount Barker seemed to have improved massively since their last game, and they really put the pressure on. The next goal came from Mount Barker, skilfully shooting the ball past the goalkeeper after a corner kick. In quick response, Layla Frahn scored another goal, only two minutes after, putting her team in the lead once more. However, Mount Barker was not satisfied being a goal down, and quickly caught up, slipping another shot past the keeper.
Had the game turned in Mount Barker’s favour? Layla Frahn took possession and shot for the goals, but due to the massive crowd around the goals, it was easily blocked. Matilda Mundy showed her goalkeeping prowess with an easy save, preserving Strath’s lead. Brooklyn Rigney played an impressive game in midfield. Her shining moment was a spectacular goal, scored straight from a corner kick. Eat your heart out, David Beckham! As excellent as some of the attacking players were, the defenders were equally as remarkable. Caitlyn did a great job at keeping the ball out of the ‘danger zone’, while Hannah worked tirelessly to protect her goal. Shortly before the halftime whistle blew, Brooklyn and Bonnie worked together to deliver a stunning goal. Brooklyn crossed the ball to Bonnie with power and accuracy who finished the job, sinking the ball into the net. The whistle blew, and Strathalbyn was on top.
With an excellent pep talk (and starbursts from Layla) the Strikers were energised and ready to go. Layla was a force to be reckoned with fresh off the bat in the second half. She had several shots at goal and defiantly never let the ball get past her. Luck was on Strathalbyn’s side with a fumble from the Mt Barker goal keeper securing another goal for the Strikers. A notable mention was Evie Brook, who was on the verge of scoring her first goal of the season. She had a number of opportunities, but they somehow evaded her. Another stand-out player was Gemma, a reasonably new addition to the team. She maintained pressure on the opposition and was a star on the wing. Strathalbyn switched some players at this point, subbing Lexi out and Maddie in. The moment she set foot on the pitch, she sprang into action, defending furiously.
Sometimes it takes a small shift in power to turn the tide. In this instance the power came from Brooklyn’s right leg, sending the ball from the halfway mark all the way into the goals. Impressive!
The Strikers shone in the later part of the game. Layla and Leah worked well as a team, passing between each other. Matilda was able to demonstrate her goal keeping skills with another save, and Hannah (who is usually in defence) shooting a close-range goal, earning another point for the Strikers. Brooklyn Rigney and Leah Davis both had opportunities to score but were unlucky. Barker did not give up, even when they were many points behind. They continued their attack into the final moments of the game, scoring a goal off of a well placed cross. Unfortunately, the Strikers were too far ahead at this point. The whistle blew, and Strathalbyn celebrated another win.
Spring has well and truly sprung. The sun was shining and the pitch was looking amazing.
At the start of the game Torrens Valley had only 9 players and Stirling District 13 but played 9 with 4 reserves.
The games between these 2 teams are very competitive and skills were needed to get past the opposition. Adelaide Williams had first try on goals but to no avail. With another attempt by Adelaide, then another by Jamie Fahner and also Ruby Homer resulting in no scores. The defence of Stirling District was working well keeping Torrens Valley scoreless and they penetrated the defence and had an attempt on goal which was saved by the goalie Kiana Rogers.
A handball in the Stirling District goalie box resulting in Ruby Homer taking a penalty and scoring Torrens Valleys first goal.
With the ball travelling up and down the pitch there was great contest between both teams, with the game being played on Stirling Districts terms. With persistence, the Torrens Valley continued to try and get through the Stirling District defence which resulted in scoring 2 more goals before 1/2 time by Adelaide Williams who dodged the goalie and put it through. Matilda Feast placed an amazing cross goal at an acute angle.
In the second half Torrens Valley goalie was Ruby Homer who saved 2 tries on goals from Stirling District. The passes went missing from Torrens Valley at the start of the second half and Stirling District made the most of their chances with a penalty on goals which was put through by Ashlyn Hewitt and another penalty further out which was saved by Ruby Homer.
Torrens Valley then started to pass more effectively and forced the Stirling District defence to protect their goals area. However a goal went through cheekily by a pass from Adelaide Williams to Jamie Fahner and toe poked in. Another goal by Ashlyn Hewitt from Stirling District resulted from some great team play Torrens Valley was then determined to play at their best and the final goal was by Adelaide Williams.
The game was animated throughout from both sides and shows the competitiveness of both teams whenever we meet.