Match report

Match report

Match report Saturday 22 June, 2024
Hahndorf White’s vs Woodside Blues

Breath hung in the cold morning air as the Hahndorf team warmed up for their game against last season’s undefeated Woodside Blues. 

Unphased by their daunting reputation, the boys warmed up physically and mentally for potentially their toughest match yet. The sun, low in the sky, shone brightly on the icy pitch and as the game kicked off, Hahndorf held nothing back.

Under the calm talent of Captain Zeek Neelawala, Hahndorf had a strong start, matching Woodside’s speed and ferocity. Angus Bretag and Carter Karamanov started in defence and showed skill and determination. With the help of Linus Doyle in Goal, they made it hard for Woodside - like a maze guarded by dragons.

Hahndorf held back Woodside’s relentless attacks until well into the first half when they conceded their first goal, an absolute belter from a very talented Woodside team. 

As the first half came to an end, spectators were treated to gripping sportsmanship. Doyle made a spectacular save to bated breaths. Noah Williams, Magnus Palmer and Charlie Kilpatrick ran like lightning in the mid-field, demonstrating some fancy footwork and outstanding passing. Not even a rouge extra ball on the pitch interrupted the boys focus and determination, they continued to put their bodies on the line. 

Carter Karamanov and Zeek Neelawala didn’t waste any opportunities to attack. Neelawala was very unlucky not to score after a breathtaking breakaway. Karamanov supported his team and fought hard, attacking with vigour but Woodside’s strong defence was like trying to break through a brick wall with a feather. Bretag had the game of his life. His footwork was mesmerising, his defence unstoppable and he tirelessly pushed the ball out of Hahndorf’s end. 

The joy of the sport was felt by all, and no player wanted to miss a minute of the second half. Bretag slid into goal and Doyle joined Karamanov in defence for the second half. Patrick Griggs made some memorable tackles and Teddy Giligan displayed great confidence with the ball, controlling it with skill and ease.

Undeterred by the score, the Hahndorf team did not stop for breath. Bretag’s form only improved in the goal, as he displayed some of the best goal keeping Hahndorf has ever seen. Not even his skill and passion could keep out some epic (and some just unlucky) goals from Woodside. 

Kilpatrick handled the ball with confidence, cleverly taking his time, passing cleanly and using his teammates well and the second half raced by in a flurry - bodies and boots soared through the air. Headers, slide tackles, injuries and banter amongst school mates – this game had it all. 

The final score was no reflection of the skill, joy and heart that this Hahndorf team brought to the game and the boys should be so proud of their efforts.