Match report

Match report

It was Strathalbyn’s chance for redemption on Saturday. The Strikers were facing off against Torrens Valley, the only team they had lost against so far. The stakes were high, but so were their spirits. It was a slow start to the game, with the ball being chased up and down the pitch. Bonnie Clothier and Brooklyn Rigney came close to scoring a few times, but they had no luck. It seemed like Torrens Valley would have the early advantage again, with #12 scoring six minutes into the game. The Strikers were determined, however, and pushed even harder. Hannah and the rest of the girls in defence did a fantastic job in keeping the ball from passing them, and with their help Bonnie broke past and took a shot at goals. It was blocked by the goalkeeper, so the cat and mouse game continued.

Throw-ins were a common sight, but nothing was achieved by them. Caitlyn Clothier, Layla Frahn and new recruit Savannah Denison worked together to try for a goal up the left wing, but missed. Torrens Valley gave another hard push of attacking, but Matilda Mundy, the Strikers’ goalkeeper, blocked their shot. When she kicked it out, there was a contest for the ball in front of the goals, with Torrens Valley almost scoring again. There was no time for celebration, as Torrens Valley proved themselves to be fierce competition. They scored once again, prompting Strathalbyn to switch some of their players, bringing new energy onto the pitch. It was a successful strategy, with a kick from Layla and a fumble from the goalie earning them their first goal. Strath’s spirits soared, but even with fresh determination, the game was impossibly even. Brooklyn helped turn the tables in Strath’s favour, thundering up and down the pitch with fire in her belly. She make a skilful cross to Bonnie, who kicked it high over the crossbar. Soon after she has another opportunity but it is saved by the keeper. The Strikers’ sturdy defence was hard to crack, with Katie, Hannah, Brooklyn and Gemma Hansen working well as a team. The half time whistle gave all the girls a brief respite and time to regroup ready for the second half.

Layla Frahn scored the first goal of the second half, which led to several shots at goal from the Strath Strikers. The game was hardly one sided with Matilda Mundy under pressure from Torrens valley. The back and forth continued as the teams seemed very evenly matched. Hannah once again shone in defence, stopping the opposition at every opportunity. Brooklyn was also playing incredibly well, which was evident when she stole a stray ball in the midfield and kicked it straight into the goals. The senior Strathalbyn team was constantly cheering and spurring the girls on. The Strikers were now a point ahead of their rivals. Torrens Valley attempted to catch back up but their shot for goal was blocked. Newcomer Savannah from Strath White showed some impressive speed. She sprinted up the pitch and took a shot at goal, only to have it saved by the Torrens Valley goalie. It was a very impressive play. Brooklyn maintained the pressure on the opposition, but the play levelled out again. Evie Brook stepped up in defence, keeping them at bay.

The final few minutes of the game were torturous for Strath White, as the play was directly in front of their goal. With only one point separating the teams, it was vital they kept the ball out of the danger zone. When the final whistle blew, Strath celebrated with relief. They had beaten their toughest team yet, and notably it was the first time the Strikers had ever accomplished this feat.