Match report

Match report

For the first clash of the year, Woodside Warriors U12 played away against the mighty Hahndorf Magpies. As fans made their way up the hill and into the arena, they were  greeted by grey clouds and a cool breeze, a tentative reminder that before long they will have to endure another cold, wet Adelaide Hills winter to cheer on their team. But the weather hasn't turned yet, and on this day conditions were ripe for a splendid display of the beautiful game. 

As the ref blew the whistle for her first time at the helm, both teams leapt out of the box and plunged into a tight and even contest. For twenty minutes, all 22 on the park strove for possession and ascendency, but neither side would yield. They defended like demons, transitioned the ball through the midfield and searched for a shot. With the slope to their advantage, it was Hahndorf who were creating more chances. Eventually they found the net - A scrappy ball inside the box was left alone too long by the Woodside backmen and a foot wearing a black sock was first to collide with it, sending it firmly into the onion bag. This lifted the home side and five minutes later they capitalised with another goal, a result of persistent pressure and impressive structural play. Those were the only two scoring shots from the field in the first half, and Hahndorf went to the break with a handy, but not unbeatable lead. 

The core of this Woodside team has been together for several years now. In that time, they have repeatedly demonstrated their resilience and determination. Anyone in the crowd who thought a bit of a deficit would temper their spirits had obviously never seen them play! With the slope to their advantage, it was now the Warriors who were on full attack. Half chances were now coming for the Red and Blue, and within 5 minutes of changing direction Woodside were on the board through a screaming individual run up the right, a cut into the middle and a dead-eye-dick finish. With the gap narrowed, Woodside took control of the game. Chances were now coming at a steady trickle and the Magpies goalie was copping a workout. But try as they might, the visitors couldn't capitalise on their chances and, as the ref called a close to proceedings, they were left ruing missed opportunities. 

Despite both sides creating 8 shots on goal, it was Hahndorf who took the chocolates on this occasion. But all in attendance were winners - they had just witnessed two local sides play with courage, determination and respect.

If this is what's in stall for the 2021 season of Hills Soccer - Bring It On!