AHJSA Match Reports

This overcast Saturday morning saw Hahndorf U7s host Bridgewater Green at Rob Kilpatrick Park for what turned out to be a thrilling encounter as Hahndorf starting players Patrick Griggs, Hamish Holmes, Ryan Glynn, Finn Bond, Asa Bartsch, William Moran, and Avery Buchanan (goalkeeper) took the field. Early on Griggs, Holmes, and Glynn played solid defense, whilst up forward, A Bartsch, Moran, and Bond combined well for some early fastbreaks and attempts at goal. A moment of confusion occurred when Bridgewater Green were thought to have scored, later ruled unsuccessful. At the ten-minute mark, Axel Pym and Victor Bartsch were substituted on for Glynn and Moran. V Bartsch made his presence felt immediately, with a great run and shot at goal.  Some brilliant passes from the Hahndorf team resulted in V Bartsch scoring the first goal of the match. Bridgewater Green quickly evened the score, with the teams deadlocked at halftime.

The second half saw Griggs don the goalkeeper jersey, and some early impressive team play as Moran, Pym, and the Bartsch brothers kept the Bridgewater Green defense busy, with multiple shots at goal. Glynn then took a corner that almost resulted in a goal, and V Bartsch was making his presence felt all over the ground! Midway through the half, A Batsch and Holmes substituted on for Bond and Glynn. The strong offensive pressure continued, with several fastbreaks and scoring opportunities. The Hahndorf spectators could sense that it was just a matter of time before a conversion occurred. Pym passed to Moran, who passed back to Pym for the final goal of the game! Hahndorf team and officials would like to thank the Bridgewater Green team and officials for an exciting and well-matched game!

U8 - Round 14 – 12/8/2023

Woodside Warriors Red Vs FC Summit

Woodside Recreation Ground – Modified Pitch – 10:00am

After lying in bed all night listening to the rain, We wondered what state the pitch would be in. We arrived to find the pitch in heavy but fair condition, but the rain continued to fall and it turned into just what we expected: mud, mud, mud. This did not dampen the lads' usual enthusiasm for getting the game started, this week the were all keen to get running and warm up.

As the game began, it was evident that we were up against a powerful opponent who was well-positioned all across the field. Both teams got off to a fast start. Jesse was looking dangerous for us up front, finding the ball and creating chances. Scott found himself on the end of a loose ball after some intense pressure and didn't waste the opportunity, smashing home our first goal of the game.

This week had both goalies on their toes. With the opponents launching some tremendous shots. Archer and Nathaniel both did an excellent job of holding off some good chances and strongly leaping on the ball when it got into their area.

FC Summit had a terrific run on in the second half, with attacking play after attacking play. Our defence was rock solid, with Daniel and Eddie holding strong and shutting down a fast attacking squad. Both Freddie and Luca were setting themselves effectively up front and working hard into the midfield, providing us with some wonderful offensive opportunities with quick breakaways. Mitchell and Archer were both able to make spectacular breakaway plays and finish with goals.

The boys performed brilliantly this week against what was arguably our most difficult opponent of the season. Fighting hard in challenging conditions. It was amazing to watch our team's team play, which has become a true strength, being used and operating in a game where the opposition was up for the battle.

The rain clouds threatened  but while the Bridgewater White and Woodside Warriors Gold U9 players got muddy, they didn't get soaked like the match beforehand.

White began strongly with their two "guns" proving to be a handful for the Gold players. Ashley Hendrie as goalkeeper was kept busy but due to the pressure being applied by the defensive line of Jack Hogan and Charlie Dvorak, the shots on target were rushed and not lethal. Gradually Gold's midfield began to match White with Toby Smith and Mason Payne intercepting many balls and putting Gold into attack.

Toby Riemann was causing headaches for the White defence and as the first half break neared, Jo Smith took off, dodged two players and drilled the ball into the back of the net. It had been an even first half with many shots by both teams but with a slender lead, Gold came back out with renewed confidence.

With one of Whites' "guns" having his turn in the goals, the match took on a new look. Gold dominated from the kick-off and White were under immense pressure. Logan Pielago scored with his usual hard low shot as the play rarely got into White's forward area. When it did dependable Zaion Lorefice was there to whack it back into Gold's half.

Gold had many shots on target and it was another low shot from Logan that again hit the back of the net. It was another amazing result for this group of lads who have been so attentive at training and try so hard to bring what they learn during the week to the pitch on Saturdays.

Game day saw us playing away at Basket Range with a surprise that the pitch held up well to the recent rain. 

Bridgewater started off strong, pushing deep into our half with Woodside defending well from the start. Daniel and Hamish built a brick wall in defence and were tough to get past with some great clearances.  Midfield had a lightning trio of Gage, Caleb and Ryland who all had fantastic games and were valuable getting the ball forward. 

As the fog rolled in, Attackers Adam, Quinn and Will put a lot of pressure on the Bridgewater defence with a few attempts at goal. 

Bridgewater finished the first half with 3 goals with a great effort by Liam saving a number of further attempts. 

Second half saw Woodside turn the game around with the ball making its way to attacking half more often with many attempts on goal. Bridgewater still putting mountains of pressure on with Adam now in goals doing a great job. 

Quinn scored the first goal for Woodside with a close range shot making it into the net. Bridgewater manage to score another goal but this would be their last with our defence and Adam stopping many more attempts. Will and Liam had some great passes and attempts, bringing the ball close to Bridgewater’s goal with Ryland scoring an amazing goal from a very tight spot in the goal square. 

Woodside’s 3rd goal came from Quinn pushing through many Bridgewater players then finishing with a powerful kick and finding the net.

This was a fantastic game to watch with many players having one of their best games for the season! With rain settling in for the last 10mins of the match.

Match report by Matt Harding

The under 10's walked onto an extremely muddy pitch, however this did not deter them from playing a cracker game! All players played extremely well under the conditions. Bridgewater certaily gave us some challenges.

Our midfielders used our wing players well to keep the ball out of the muddy centre. This worked to our adventage for overlapping runs down the wing which enabled them to bring some great crosses in and top finishers.

The kids found the muddy pitch harder to pass along the ground therefor there were more long kicks used towards goals than normal.

Our defense was outstanding this game and certainly made Bridgewater work for their goals.

Woodside came out of the game exhausted and extremely muddy they most certainly deserved the win.

In a thrilling soccer match played under cool and wet conditions, the Woodside Warriors under 11 Red soccer team displayed their mettle against a determined Hahndorf side. Hahndorf showed promise with a couple of solid players, but it was Woodside Warriors' collective team effort that stole the limelight.

Woodside Warriors showcased their skills with precision, consistently backing their plays and making several impressive shots on goal. Despite their valiant efforts, the Warriors fell short of securing victory on this occasion.

In the end, Hahndorf emerged triumphant, going home with the hard-earned victory, leaving the Woodside Warriors with valuable lessons to take away from this match. It was a spirited display of youth soccer, filled with passion and determination on both sides, making it an exciting encounter for all who witnessed it. The Woodside Warriors under 11 Red team may not have claimed the victory, but their commitment and teamwork shone brightly on the field, promising a bright future ahead.

The Warriors travelled to Beatty Terrace to play against one of the few teams in the competition with a majority of players turning 14 this year, in Murray Bridge. Going into the game, both teams were on two wins so on paper it looked to be a closely contested game, but Bridge had acquired an international import which the Warriors knew would make this a tougher tussle than the previous game.

From the start Woodside were under the pump with their opponents and in particular their import having nine shots on target in the first 10 minutes, with the Woodside keeper making some incredible saves with both hands and feet. However, not all were saved and before they knew it the Warriors were two down. It was not all one-way traffic with Woodside playing its brand of football, they were making passes and putting pressure on their opponent’s back four. At the quarter time mark of the game Woodside rolled out its changes, including a change in keeper. Murray Bridge though still had a majority of the possession, but as a team Woodside were defending in pairs making it hard for their opponent’s central midfielder to make his mark again. When he tried to beat one, another stood in his path which either resulted in the loss of the ball or him using his skill to avail them all. When in attack, Woodside were looking for each other and making their passes. As the 30th minute mark was approaching Woodside’s attacking central midfielder broke through and taking his chance was one on one with the keeper. His first attempt was excellently saved by the keeper who could only rebound the ball back into the midfielder’s path, not expecting the save, the midfielder tried again, this time the keeper held onto the shot. This lifted the Warriors who continued to work hard and try and create opportunities for themselves. Full credit to Murray Bridge’s back line who covered well and stopped many of Woodside’s attacks toward the end of the first half. Try as they might the red and blue shirts couldn’t make head way and their opponents continued to take their chances in-front of goal. While Bridge only added one more for the half they had amassed a total of 24 shots on goal which were expertly saved by the keeper, cleared away by the defence or in some cases players threw their body into the line of fire to stop a goal. True Woodside spirit and dedication.

The second half started again with Murray Bridge having most of the attack, but an amazing diving save by the Woodside keeper just after the start of the half lifted the Warriors. Woodside’s never say die attitude and ability to work as a team we’re making headway against their opponents. While, a lapse in concentration saw Bridge add another to their tally, Woodside were pressing their advantage. Twenty minutes from the start of the second half they were rewarded for their efforts when their right midfielder found space in front of goal and slotted the ball into the back of the net after a well-deserved run. Shortly after, they had another attempt but the Bridge defence held strong. Bridge again managed to score a goal from a free kick that beat keeper and the defender on the goal line. In what was a disappointing end to the game, our littlest Warrior was targeted and carried off the park from a terrible tackle that was meant to hurt rather than gain possession of the football. After expertly sliding to beat an opponent to the ball he recovered and was on his way down the line when the incident happened, much to the disgust of all coaches and some spectators. With the referee deciding it only warranted a yellow.

The game finished with another loss for the Warriors but regardless of the score line this group of young men and women continue to demonstrate the values of its club and a true Warrior spirit.

U15 Hahndorf v Willunga

Under a darkening sky and with Willunga fielding only ten players, both teams took to the
pitch and awaited the high-pitched trill of the referee’s whistle. The energy was high from
the first kick off and Hahndorf were quick to move the ball up the pitch, keen to get a score
on the board. First attempts at the goal square were well defended by the opposition goalie
and Angus Mifsud, Harrison Gould, and Lucianne Tinsley- Smith were seen to display great
passing skills in the defence line when Willunga pushed back. Luca Cannavo and Levi Beesley
kept the tackling pressure high on the opposition and Willunga struggled to maintain control
of the ball under their attack. Hayden Lien and Gould worked like a well-oiled machine,
making solid passes to each other as they again moved the ball up the pitch. Several
attempts at goals were well-thwarted by the Willunga goalie before Gould successfully
sailed the ball over the goalie’s head to get the first score on the board at the 8-minute
mark. Willunga quickly followed up with their own attempt at goal that unfortunately went
a little wide. At the 11-minute mark, Jett Zahra snuck the second goal for Hahndorf past the
goalkeeper, which was soon followed with a successful goal by Isaac Killey superbly assisted
by Cooper Liddle. Willunga’s efforts to get a score on the board were well defended by the
Hahndorf back line with Oliver Sarapini-Palombo assisting Mifsud to keep the ball clear, and
Cannavo successfully covering the ball into the waiting hands of Jacob Gardner in goal.
Hahndorf kept the pressure on, and Willunga were working hard in the defence line,
pushing back at several efforts toward goal before Liddle successfully scored the fourth goal
for the home team which was soon followed by another by J Zahra. Both teams were
displaying great passing skills in the mid field and the opposition never let their energy
levels drop. Mifsud, Gould, and Patrick Hinze worked collaboratively in the back line to
prevent Willunga’s pressure on the defence to achieve their first goal. Two huge efforts by
Willunga were unsuccessful by only cm’s as one attempt went wide and the other skimmed
over the crossbar. Both sides kept the pressure on up to the half time whistle and the score
held at 5 – 0 at the break.
When the teams took back to the pitch, Liddle took over from Gardner in goals and both
teams took off with high energy levels to keep the ball in active play up and down the pitch.
There was a lot of activity in the mid field and all players worked hard at their passing skills
with Daniel Peters making solid efforts against the opposition’s defence to work the ball up
the sideline. Gardner had a goal attempt thwarted by the goal post and J Zahra sent one
sailing over the top of the goals. As the drizzling rain began to fall, Willunga kept up great
efforts in their defence line as J Zahra scored the first goal of the second half with a fabulous
assist from Peters. Soon after, Willunga’s no.8, scored a sensational goal that elicited cheers
from all the spectators, and this seemed to boost the excitement of the opposition.
Willunga had a follow up attempt that went slightly wide, and another valiant attempt was
well defended by Liddle.

As the rain fell heavier, the ground got muddier and several of the players were seen to slide
and stumble as they attempted to tackle the ball away from their opponents. Pepe Zahra
provided a solid assist to Gould as he scored another goal and then P Zahra was rewarded
with his own goal off an excellent assist from Peters. The Willunga goalie continued to
display excellent skills in the goal square as further attempts at goals were made and
prevented by him. J Zahra took a huge kick from out wide that slammed hard into the
Willunga goalkeeper’s hands before the goalkeeper was soon under attack again with
another goal for the home team from a corner between P Zahra and Peters. Hinze scored
the last goal for the game as he snuck one in from behind to meet the final whistle with a
score. It was a great game to watch with both teams displaying excellent ball skills
and collaborative passing abilities, and great sportsmanship.

Woodside vs Stirling is typically an interesting and exciting game and this week's match proved no different. There was a hum of excitement as players headed out for the match, despite the skies threatening rain.

Woodside seemed to have the edge for this match with some dominance in the mid-field with Franchi and Silvestri generating some key attacking plays. These however didn't end in any score until the 36 minute mark when Jones made a strong push forward toward goal. This resulted in a foul in the box and a penalty kick that he slotted home as the first score of the day.  This appeared to give Woodside additional impetus to push harder and Melville and Cotton worked together to create opportunities, which resulted in Cotton scoring from an angled shot on the left wing. Despite Stirling pushing hard from the kick-off Woodside's right defender, James-Freeman intercepted a key ball which he sent forward to the feet of Bauer who promptly crossed it to the centre and was headed into the goal by Jones. That's where the half finished - 3-0 to Woodside.

Stirling came out strong in the second half and created a few opportunities of their own. Woodside's keeper, Cox was in the play, saving a free kick shot on goal from just outside the 18-yard box. Mclean and Mcinnes were crucial in the centre defence, and Stott's speed proved important when he saved a goal opportunity from the goal line. Johnston showed strength in the defence line, pushing the winger wide and not allowing space to play. There was some to and fro before Woodside scored again from the foot of Jones through Stirling defenders after it had bounced between Silvestri and Cotton. The final score of the day was Woodside again with a cross in from Cotton to the head of Bauer.

Overall to good day on the park for Woodside, where they played some good strong football. 

Round 14                        Strathalbyn Vs Woodside Rams                           Venue Strathalbyn

Well I wish I could say the sun was out and the birds were chirping, but that would be wrong, the clouds were out and the rain was falling like cats and dogs, or maybe it was teaming down (in the heart of soccer).  The coaches’ box was a mud pit and the Oval looked ok, but had little mud pies everywhere. What did this look like to the girls, it looked like FUN.

The game began and as usual we never know which way it will go against Strathalbyn.

Strathalbyn got the first break early scoring 2 goals in the first 10 minutes of the game, catching us out before we were ready to fire up. We made a few position changes and this set the play back to an even tussle. No goals for the rest of this half until the final couple of minutes when finally the Woodside Rams managed to crawl back a goal leaving the half time brake with a score of 2 strath - 1 Woodside Rams. 

It was hard to recover in the brake as the rain was still falling and we had a pile of mud to sit in, but the girls didn’t seem to bothered by the surroundings, still with the belief that they could penetrate Strathalbyn and take victory. 

Well we went back out for the second half and the whistle blew and as usual early in the start strath came out firing. Our poor goalie having their first go at it for the season was getting pummelled by shot after shot. I think there would have been 4 attempts in less than 5 minutes and save, save, save, save she did,  she was having an absolutely sensational start making it hard for the Starthalbyn attack.  Eventually they managed to push through and put a window of a goal between us on the score board. This also meant Strathalbyn could now flood their defence and make it even harder for us to score, and then the scored again. 

We would not stop fighting though and we made a great play with a chip through the forward line and a run a goal. 

It was a great game to watch, but not us on top this time around. well done girls.

Round 14

Match Report

Stirling Districts Football Club v Mount Barker United Soccer Club

Strathalbyn Strikers Soccer Club Pitch 2

Kick-off 1:00pm

A cold and wet day didn’t put a dampener on Stirling Districts ambitions to win against Mount Barker United on a grey Saturday afternoon. Within mere minutes of kick off, Rosalie Taylor scored following a great assist from Auriana Healy. Not a minute passed before Taylor scored her second vibrant goal! Not to be outdone, Healy scored Stirling Districts’ third goal nine minutes later. Gutsy Emma Dalton in goal made some impressive saves before conceding two in rapid succession. Jae Fitch was strong in defence, engaging in some fancy footwork to win the ball from the opposition. Stirling Districts also welcomed back reliable and determined Nora Bijlsma to the defensive lineup following her European holiday and demonstrating why she’s such a valuable player. Speedy Jasmijn Weits made several attempts on goal, only to be thwarted by either the opposition’s keeper or the wet conditions impacting her aim.

By half time, the scores were 3-2 with Stirling Districts in the lead.

Nadia Bidwell scored her first goal of the match a mere minute into the second half. Another goal was conceded to Mount Barker United to which Aubrey Adams quickly retaliated, keeping Stirling Districts ahead. Isabelle Bailes took the keeper’s gloves for the second half, making many saves and showing her typical good nature throughout. Ev Wilson was a crucial part of the defensive line-up, quick and keen on the ball. Mia-anne Davies made her U17G debut, a Stirling Districts player who’s only prior experience is in AHJFA U13G Combined Clubs Team, and she shone playing out of her usual position to being on the wing, competing in some tough contests and making some attempts on goal. Pitch conditions were becoming increasingly difficult as the game wore on, anyone could be forgiven thinking the game was at Bradwood Park with all the mud and heaviness of the ball slowing players down. Zoe York held command of the field as CDM, with her teammates utilising her skill and leadership to move the ball across the pitch. Bidwell went on to score her second goal which seemed to inspire Mount Barker to score another in the final minute! It was a high scoring, high stakes game in extremely trying conditions and Stirling Districts happily walked away with the win, 6-4.

Without our resident photographer Hoaran Huang, only one photo was taken, post match.