Senior Men
Coach:
Team Manager:
***Match Reports 2022 ***
Saturday 9th April 2022
Division 6:
Hahndorf 1 vs Sturt Lion 6
Hahndorf unfortunately started off on the back foot with Sturt scoring
two quick goals within the first ten minutes. However, the defensive
line was able to wake up and prevent any further losses, supported by
some excellent work from the Hahndorf keeper Thomas Cribb. Hahndorf was
then able to turn the tables with Billy Hyder taking possession of the
ball back from Sturt and passed the ball through the lines to Lachlan
Traeger who unfortunately was unable to turn the opportunity into a
goal.
The next 20 minutes of the game were difficult for Hahndorf but the
defensive line, consisting of Josh Miller, Darcy and Daniel Mardle, and
Cain Cooke, put in a huge effort and shut down many of Sturt’s
opportunities, with Daniel Mardle and Cribb performing above the rest.
Daniel Mardle was unluckily injured while defending one of these goals
and had to be subbed off.
Good midfield pressure from Jackson Doley and Tom Harris lead to
Hahndorf taking possession of the ball, creating opportunities for shots
on the goal. One such opportunity allowed Richard Epstein to take a shot
on the goal, but it flew over the cross bar. This was followed up
quickly by Traeger taking possession of the ball, shortly after the goal
kick and sadly hit the cross bar. By half time the score was 3-0 with
Sturt in the lead.
The Hahndorf spirit was still strong and in the first few minutes of the
second half Xavier Kell was able to score a goal assisted by Alex
Aloisi.
Despite Hahndorf’s hard work the game finished with Sturt winning 6-1.
Division 3C:
Hahndorf 0 vs Norwood 3
The second game of the day held another rough start for the Hahndorf
team, with Norwood scoring a penalty within the first few seconds of the
game. Hahndorf were able to keep their heads up despite this start and
showed some excellent passing and communication.
The defensive line, Tyler Weyland, Luke Atkins, Johnathan Richards, and
Jackson Doley, held well against Norwood’s attack, managing to shut
down all but one such attack. Hahndorf was able to follow up by playing
through lines numerous times, with one such play presenting Kyle Fenlon
with an opportunity but was unfortunately shut down by Norwood’s
keeper.
By halftime Hahndorf was down 2-0 but they were not giving up yet! The
second half showed the Hahndorf keeper, Thomas Cribb to be an
outstanding keeper, stopping anything that managed to slip through the
defence.
A huge effort from Josh Macowan, Connor Fenlon, and Brendon Kilpatrick
kept Norwood on their toes, with excellent passing and ball movement
creating plenty of opportunities for Hahndorf to drive forward.
Regrettably these opportunities didn’t result in any goals.
The final score was 3-0 but the Hahndorf team had played a terrific game
and it could easily have been a different story.
By Luke Atkins
**** Match Reports 2021 ****
28th August – Hahndorf v Sturt Lions
Magpies in the Lions Den
The Magpie fans haven’t had the chance to celebrate too many victories at Pine Stadium this season, but there is a definite sense of positive team development for next season.
This week Sturt Lions arrived at the striped arena, but everyone’s eyes were only on Billy “Grealish”, who once again returned the fans adoration with the usual pleasant chit chat and photo opportunities.
Coach Richard Epstein surprised the faithful with the return of veteran Armin Mayer.
Sturt Lions Bs were quite toothless for the first 25 minutes, as they were well held by R. Epstein, Benjamin Pike, “Grealish” and Brad Bateman. Of course, the Panther Mark De Lange, also viciously defended his clean sheet between the posts and up front Aloisi, Newman and Lea were making inroads and setting up a few chances.
At the time of writing the existence of the Football Gods has not been confirmed, but if they exist they have it in for Hahndorf at the moment. Fifteen minutes before half-time a very unfortunate handball penalty and a ball across the area from a goal kick which was gratefully tapped in by the Lions saw Hahndorf 2-0 down and no one knew how.
In the second half the Magpies structure began to suffer and despite carving out a few more chances they conceded another three, all of which displayed some unfortunate defensive ping pong action. Sturt were the dominant team, but the Magpies had the quality to secure a point they just needed to delay the gift giving until Christmas Day.
Some fine link up play from Josh How, Callum Vickers and Damon Epstein got the crowd on their feet in the second half and Josh Miller’s speed came in very handy, but there was no joy at the scoring end today.
The As need to work on their start to games. They were down 1-0 before they had even fired a shot in anger. Having said that it was clear to see that the line-up around defensive giants Ben Pike and Luke Atkins has the quality to do some damage next year. After the team handed another unfortunate tap in to the Lions, the players really dug in and established some good pressing in midfield. Alex McNeece and Michael O’Malley became the terrors of the Lions defence and Harris and Vickers combined well to carve out the first chances. Composure and hard work brought the crowd into the game. Mitchell Foley and Jess Kim shut down the wings while Damon Epstein and Cai Carter Rees got the heart beating in the centre. Epstein, Atkins and Pike once again found an extra limb to block various shots and by the middle of the second half you could see the Lions’ frustration come to the fore.
This would have been the perfect time for the Magpies to pounce, but alas the mythical Gods of Football intervened and a deflected cross ended up in the back of the net as an own goal to make it 3-0.
The Lions got one more and the crowd enjoyed Grealish’s and Miller’s cameos in the As late on. Mc Neece must have run the kms for three games and his efforts were greatly appreciated in the Southern Stands where it was duly noted that the team had taken another step to a successful next season by matching their opponents in all areas of he park for large parts of the game.
21st August – Hahndorf v Uni SA
On an unseasonably warm day the Magpies made their way down to buzzing Mawson Lakes to face Uni SA. The team was buoyed by the arrival of club legend Michael Driver’s second child, but were going to miss the fire power of Jack Anderson in the As.
The Bs form is definitely on the rise, so they were disappointed to be 3-0 down early in the second half. The “Panther” Mark De Lange was once again saving most of what was on offer and Jess Kim had an excellent game, but major signs of life only became visible when Brad Bateman’s “Messi-like” free kick dipped at the last second to put Hahndorf on the scoreboard. This was followed by a great Vickers solo run. The striking sensation beat the last defender in a one on one and then expertly slotted home with the outside of the foot. Now the game was up for grabs again, but despite the Magpies best efforts they couldn’t secure the equaliser and ended up conceding once more to lose 4-2.
The As have been battling on bravely and once again had Benjamin “Neuer” Pike in goals. His form has been outstanding all season and he is one of the solid rocks the team can build around. The As have had to deal with a few injuries and some players filling in for the Bs, so sometimes the legs can get a little heavy in the second half. In this game they were clearly outplayed by the more experienced Uni team and ended up conceding a heavy defeat, which is all part of the learning curve of the Magpies transition into the CSL. In other club news Lachlan Traeger’s transfer to German side SSV Aalen II has now gone through and we wish this dynamic midfielder all the best for his blossoming career in Germany.
14th August – Hahndorf v Campbelltown
The rare August sun beat down upon the artificial turf at the Steve Woodcock Sports Centre, as things literally and figuratively heated up for the clash between the visiting Magpies and Campbelltown City. Team Manager/General Angel Lynley Driver was seen pacing the sidelines, apparently not in fact as a result of pre-game nerves, but rather in an attempt to ‘walk out’ baby Driver #2, who was clearly not in any rush to arrive.
The Magpie B graders, on the other hand, were quick to arrive into the game, clearly the stronger side in the early exchanges, with Michael Newman firing a shot just wide within a minute of kick-off. Newman saw another shot saved soon after, having been found following a cutback executed by Damon Epstein, himself fed by midfield general Alex ‘Pirlo’ Aloisi. Richard Epstein, not to be outdone by his son, provided rock solid cover, smothering the hosts’ early forward moves. His defensive colleague Brad Bateman then put his body on the line for a crucial goal line clearance, as Campbelltown began to grow into the game. A very unfortunate opener soon followed, with a goalmouth scramble eventually trickling over the line, in spite of more attempted heroics from Bateman. The second soon followed, from a long ball with the Magpies back line convinced they had caught the striker offside with their high line. Hahndorf came back into the game later in the half with the addition of fresh legs from the bench being crucial in the stifling conditions with several clear-cut chances going begging. Following half time, more chances went by without a goal to show for them, until the hosts scored in incredible fashion, with a strike from beyond the halfway line. The moment in many ways broke the game open, with a flurry of Campbelltown goals following through the remainder of the match, as the heat took its toll on tired Hahndorf legs, many of which playing their second game of the week following Wednesday night’s makeup game with Mount Barker. One player who showed no such ill effects was the ever-present Michael O’Malley, whose tireless running was eventually justly rewarded as he broke free to score a consolation goal late on.
The early stages of the second game did not bode so well for the A grade Magpies. More often seen together in the forward line, Jack Anderson, Callum Vickers and Ben Harris were forced to join the centre backs thanks to the sheer pressure and positive possession held by the hosts. Living up to his ‘Energiser Bunny’ moniker, Anderson was also involved in the few Hahndorf attacks in the first half, working up and down to involve himself in all three phases of play. The resolute Hahndorf defence was breached on occasion throughout the half due to the sheer quality of the opposition players. Despite the best heroic efforts of centre back pairing Luke Atkins and Cai Rees, the margin continued to grow as the half drew to a close. The Magpies returned from halftime a much-improved side, putting significant pressure on the hosts, unlucky not to come away with an early goal. Players from both sides began to succumb to the heat, with both coaches ringing the changes either side of the 60-minute mark. Michael O’Malley was again called upon following his efforts for the reserves, and again provided outstanding energy in conditions, unmatched by his peers. Danny Kim was reliably strong on the ball, bringing others into the play by holding the ball up and finding his teammates at opportune moments. Eventually Kim created the breakthrough, finding Vickers on the edge of the box, with the latter’s powerful opposite-foot strike flew past the Campbelltown ‘keeper, another consolation and the final goal of the tie.
Overall a tough day out for both Hahndorf teams, who will look to move on from this result and return to the positive form shown in recent fixtures.
19th June – Hahndorf v Plympton
15th May – Hahndorf v Campbelltown
B’s
3-3
Hahndorf vs Campbelltown
First half of the game was a thrilling contest, with the Hahndorf boys getting off to a great start with an offensive play. Their team worked very well together. In the first 15 minutes we got a penalty in the Campbelltown goal box with Michael Driver sailing his penalty goal into the back of the net to make the score 1-0. Five minutes later with the assistance of the team, Dan Kim managed to weave past the Campbelltown defence and scored a cracker of a goal to make the score 2-0 – Hahndorf’s way. Last few minutes of the first half, the legendary Ben Pike set up Michael Driver with a blistering header to make the half time score 3-0.
Second half Hahndorf got a bit too relaxed, with Campbelltown starting to find their fighting form, giving the Hahndorf boys a challenge. Sadly, Campbelltown came back with three goals in the second half which made us draw 3-3 against Campbelltown. Top performance from the Hahndorf boys like Michael O’Malley speeding up the wing, with a solid defence from the beast Billy Hyder and great intensity from Strecky. Every week we’re getting in better form, and communication from all the boys.
A’s
0-7
Hahndorf vs Campbelltown
Campbelltown came out fighting from the get go with the forward boys showing their talent early on into the game, getting 2 goals in the first half. A very heated contest between the teams with lots of the play being very vocal and competitive. Mid game a Campbelltown spectator started a scuffle with the Hahndorf linesman which got quite heated. The game was stopped to assess and allowed the crowd to be controlled. Ref called half time to settle both sides out and control the situation.
Second half came around and Hahndorf boys were distracted a lot from the disagreement, and found it hard to get back into the rhythm. Campbelltown kept their foot on the pedal and scored 5 more goals in the second half, with the Hahndorf boys getting so close with a few shots at goal. Sadly it wasn’t our day for the Hahndorf team but we learnt a lot, so we need to improve to come back stronger in our rematch against Campbelltown.
8th May – Hahndorf v Adelaide Uni
Adelaide Uni brought a vehement downpour with them to Pine Stadium as a resurgent Hahndorf prepared to put another brick in its rebuilding wall. With both of the Bs teams in black and white the locals were well entertained in the first half, especially when Papa Smurf Mayer put a ball through to Kyle Fenlon in the box. Young Kyle who had already played a game in the juniors showed that Barcelona were right to knock on his door earlier in the season. Using his body to perfection he got in front of the last defender and calmly finished past the advancing keeper.
Until then Hahndorf gloveman Mark De Lange had been kept very busy, making save after save. Now Hahndorf sensed Uni weren’t going to have it all their own way today.
With Daniel Mardle, Richard Epstein and Billy Hyder adding some extra aggression at the back, Damon Epstein and Michael O’Malley started to get the ball moving through the middle. The Magpies were down at half-time, but it was clear that the team was poised to strike whenever an opening would present itself. And it did. Ten minutes into the second half The Ghost, Michael Driver, did the return one two with Fenlon and then perfectly set him up for his second. It was another cool finish and now the Magpies were swooping on every available opportunity. Benjamin Pike had an outstanding game at the back, while Jess Kim and Jackson Doley further strengthened the midfield. Josh How also made an outstanding return to the side and his calm use of the ball helped the team consolidate possession and shift the tempo of the game.
Daniel Kim proved his versatility shifting from the front to the back and using his speed and strength to run down opponents when Uni did threaten in the second half. Jacob Streckeisen motored all day, hassling, chasing and driving the ball deep into enemy territory. His contribution on the right was invaluable. In the end Uni pulled out one more deft finish to end the second half 1-1.
Hahndorf had lost the game, but managed to find the net and shut down the opposition. In this league where a number of NPL sides have now dumped their 3rd and 4th teams, it’s clear to see how much football has progressed in SA in terms of quality and ball use. A lot of these teams would easily hold their own in the division above and therefore the crowd at Pine Stadium went wild when the iconic Ben Harris put through Jack Anderson with the magical outside of his boot. Anderson then displayed all his class when he calmly held off the opposition before thundering the ball into the far corner of the net. From that moment the As game turned as Uni struggled to cope with the equaliser and Hahndorf pressing aggressively.
It was very heartening to see the team combine so well to rattle their opponent and push for the lead. Ben Pike was again a class above Neuer and Schmeichel as his magnetic hands held on to everything he was presented with. If I had the team list before me, each of our heroes would have received a special commendation, but even some late opposition goals could not hide the fact that the Magpies are on the rise.
1st May – Hahndorf v CBC
Uncharacteristically warm weather for the time of year greeted the teams as they took to the field for the much-anticipated clash between Hahndorf and CBC. Both teams sensed an opportunity to pick up some momentum with a maiden win of the season.
And indeed, it appeared the hosts came prepared to turn their early form around, with a number of chances created in the first few minutes. Significant pressure eventuated in an early penalty when a CBC defender inadvertently handballed in the box following a corner. The penalty was tucked away by Ben Harris and all signs pointed to a good day at the office for the Magpie B’s. However, the goal was chalked off as the referee deemed the Hahndorf players had entered the box prior to the kick being taken, and under new rules no retake was afforded. As is so often the way, CBC managed to snatch a goal at the other end soon after, giving them a 1-0 lead, which belied the state of the game. A second soon followed for the visitors from long range in a brief period of dominance, before Michael Driver pulled a crucial goal back just before the interval with a poacher’s back post finish, the visitors reaching half time clinging on to a 2-1 lead.
Rallied by the goal, Hahndorf came out strong after the break, and dominated proceedings from the off, creating chance after chance through great play from midfield Michaels O’Malley and Newman, along with excellent width and overlap provided by deputising wing-backs Josh Miller and Daniel Kim. The game was being played in and around the CBC penalty area, with a number of outstanding saves and goalmouth scrambles keeping the hosts at bay. Even a second penalty simply would not find the back of the net to tie things up, with the CBC keeper covering himself in glory with repeat saves following a retake. As the game continued the heat took its toll, as Magpies began to drop like flies with injury and cramp decimating the rotation, forcing Jack ‘Energiser Bunny’ Anderson to live up to his moniker and play out the entire second half along with his A’s obligations. At the end of the day, despite the endless pressure and possession, Hahndorf just could not find the final ball. The game finished 2-1 to the visitors, with full credit to their stout defensive performance, leaving the B’s frustrated at the final whistle.
A dark haze descended over the pitch as the A’s came out to play. Whether this was caused by an unfortunate change in the wind blowing acrid smoke from a nearby burn off, or the enormity of the opportunity to snag a win, it is impossible to say. In any case, no-one could split the two sides in a back and forth first 20 minutes. Strong midfield running from Josh Macowan on his return to Pine Avenue following injury won Hahndorf a number of corners, which Luke Atkins was unfortunate not to convert after repeatedly jumping highest amongst a pack in the CBC box. The visitors did eventually break the deadlock just before the half hour mark after the ball broke free from a goalmouth scramble and was hammered home. The hosts did not let their heads drop and were in the ascendency for the remainder of the half. First, Callum Vickers came close, seeing his header cleared off the line following a long ball. Great linkup between Vickers and Macowan then led to an excellent chance for
the latter, but the CBC keeper was quick off his line to tip the shot wide. Just before the interval, a chaotic scramble following a corner led to a shot being cleared off the line by a CBC defender, with shouts for handball waved away by the referee. These late chances gave the magpies hope that they would be able to flip the tie on its head after half-time.
Sadly, it wasn’t to be. CBC started the second period sharper and grabbed an early goal before Hahndorf were able to play themselves into the game. Now playing uphill, tired legs were apparent across the squad as the heat began to bite just as it had in the B’s game. Benjamin Pike was called upon to make a number of difficult saves and was as reliable as ever. Despite the challenging conditions, Atkins put in a man of the match performance for the hosts today, productive for the Magpies in all three phases of play. Along with his defensive solidity and set piece threat, his run from central defence was excellent, linking up nicely down the left side with Brad Bateman and Jack Anderson, scything through the visitors’ lines on multiple occasions. One such passage led to a free kick, with which Macowan struck the bar. He was unfortunate not to score, catching the keeper off guard with a powerful shot from very long range. The referee reached for his pocket often in the second half, with a number of heavy tackles laid by members of both teams. As the day’s play drew to a close, a number of chances were produced by Mitchell Foley’s pace and gut running from right wing back, but much like the B’s, none found the back of the net. The tie finished 2-0 to CBC.
Overall, it was a frustrating day for both teams, who have to feel that they could have come away with something from both games. Despite this, there were periods of dominance for both the A’s and B’s which, if combined with more ruthless play in the final third, bode well for better results in the remainder of the season.
10th April – Hahndorf v Cumberland
The Hahndorf senior men’s teams were keen to make their debut in the Collegiate League. The change of Leagues has brought a swathe a new, young players to the club, along with a number of young players coming up from the club’s junior age groups, rounded out by a core of stalwarts.
However, it was immediately clear that opponents Cumberland had come up to Pine Ave meaning business. Both the A’s and the B’s were under considerable pressure from the first whistle.
Staunch but capable defending saw the B’s heading into the break trailing 0-1 for a long time, but for a second Cumberland goal minutes before the break. Centre backs Daniel Mardle and Richard Epstein, supported on the wing by Jess Kim and Tully Probert were able to repel most of the attacks.
Hard work in midfield by Alex “Pirlo” Aloisi, Michael “Icebath” Newman, Damon Epstein and ‘wunder-wechsel’ (super sub) Armin Mayer mainly supported the defense in the first half. Sadly, regardless of the hard work put in by Michael O’Malley, James Lea and Daniel Kim, the home side proved unable to make much of a fist in attack in the first half.
The second half saw the Hahndorf B’s a much more competitive side, producing a good number of chances and goal-scoring opportunities for D. Kim and Kyle Fenlon (playing up from U17’s), but unfortunately the home team failed to convert them. As the second half went on, it was Cumberland who showed themselves the fitter and more disciplined team. Only more staunch defending and goal keeping could keep the score to 0-4.
The Hahndorf A team experienced a very similar start of the game. Cumberland were on the attack from the first whistle. Again, it was the home side defense who worked for 10 men. However, the well-oiled Cumberland A’s were able to undo all the hard work by Brad Bateman, Luke Atkins, captain Cai Rees and Billy Hyder a few times too many. After Bateman was escorted off the field with a possible concussion from an unlucky ball to the back of the head, the visitors found the back of the net a few more times, leading 0-5 into the break.
The second half saw an undeterred Hahndorf side, that kept fighting. In much more composed and constructive style, the home side was able to play higher up the pitch, combining much better and playing with more purpose and intensity. Energiser Bunny Jack Anderson, Damon Epstein, Ben “Harris” Harris and Callum Vickers were able to repeatedly test the Cumberland defense, but to avail. A counterattack from the visitors saw the game end in 0-6.
Both Hahndorf goalies, Benjamin Pike for the A’s and Mark “The Panther” de Lange for the B’s proved themselves invaluable in goal, each saving a dozen shots – hand, feet, and even the face were ably (if painfully) employed to keep the visitors from scoring more.
While Hahndorf’s first foray in the Collegiate League was less successful than was hoped, both teams showed moments of good play with pressure on the visitor’s defense, as well as giving the teams plenty to work on.
**** Match Reports 2020 ****
22nd August – Hahndorf v South Coast
Seniors A
Lessons in anatomy
We live in an era where the basic idea of games is being lost. Former AFL greats are left completely helpless when asked to explain the current interpretation of rules in the sport that made them legends. This ambiguity often sees us watching 36 star athletes drifting from free kick to free kick in search of a game. In soccer it should be difficult to score a goal and a team’s skills and ability should see them triumph. However, for the Magpies A Grade game the most imposing player turned out to be the referee. After having awarded two penalties for handball against Hahndorf in the B-grade game he awarded another three within 25 minutes for South Coast in the A-grade game. In light of the conditions, which saw both teams grind it out in the slippery mud, these severe penalties for accidental handballs (two of which were more than dubious) rendered the whole match pretty pointless.
One has to question the validity of playing in a competition where the official has such a poor sense of the game as a whole that he always ends up imposing himself on the play and the result.
We should also remind ourselves that if a player chests the ball his arms will be close to his chest, because most players were born that way. And…and this is most crucial, one’s chest is not part of the hand. This seems to be a little anatomical fact which is being forgotten these days. Also none of the South Coast players appeared to have brought their hands as all Hahndorf appeals were waved away.
Josh Miller was the hero for the Magpies, finishing the game more mud than man in a heroic effort in goals. He saved a penalty, but he couldn’t save them all. However, he kept the Magpies pride intact right to the end. The whole team distinguished themselves through their determined play right to the end and Nathan Roennfeldt’s and Tully Probert’s runs from deep gave some welcome relief to the beleaguered defence where Adam Barrera notched up another hundred headers to keep South Coast at bay.
Still the main impression of the game was that if it is interpreted at this level in this way , it is no longer football but a one man show.
Seniors B
2020 swansong of the Magpies.
It was the last round of this year’s regular season, which has not been an easy one for the rebuilding Hahndorf senior sides.
The Magpie reserves were eager to impress and eke out a win in their final engagement with South Coast. And impress they did, right from the first whistle. Furious attacks from Connor Fenlon, Michael Driver and Ben Harris saw the Coast keeper wallow in the mud time and again, only to be denied the lead. It was not until mid-first half when Driver was fouled just outside of the 18 yard box when Sam Putallaz stepped up and curled his free kick into the far top corner when the ‘Pies saw their efforts rewarded with a well-deserved lead. Hard work in midfield by Fenlon, Ganesh Westbury, Ben Stewart and James Lea kept the pressure on Coast defense throughout the first half. It wasn’t too long before a through-ball reached Harris, who didn’t fail when he found himself eye to eye with the keeper.
The rare occasions that the visitors managed to break through were swiftly and confidently handled by captain Graham Phillips, Daniel Mardle, Putallaz and Mackenzie Lawson in the Hahndorf defense, with the formidable Joshua Miller between the posts.
Unfortunately the tide turned in the second half for the Magpies, when they met with resistance from a renewed South Coast, helped by questionable decisions from the referee who seemed to be out to impress his stamp on the game, similar to previous Hahndorf home games he officiated.
By the number of decisions going against the hosts, casual observers might be forgiven to think that the ‘Pies needed to resort to fouling and offending to prevent the visitors from scoring. Calls for handball were rewarded (even when balls were kicked onto players who were already on the ground, bowled over by opposing players), cards (both yellow and red) and penalty kicks were awarded one-sidedly in response to insistent calls from the visitors who were getting frustrated when they could not equalise on their own steam. Fresh Hahndorf legs from Josh How, Alex Martin, Jess Kim, Rob Murphy and Daniel Kim kept pressure on the Coast defense, but even with a brace from Fenlon, it was not enough to result in a win. With 10 men on the pitch, the game and the season ended with a disappointing and undeserved 4-5 defeat for the Magpies Reserves.
15th August – Hahndorf v Southern Breakers
Phillips turns the screw
When the Queen of Hahndorf knighted Graham Phillips for his many services to her beloved soccer club, she hoped he would keep playing while fulfilling his other duties of president, coach, groundskeeper, drainage expert, major project coordinator, committee member and go to person for a million other things. Well, my Queen he has not disappointed you. You can still put Sir Graham wherever you want on the field and he will own his position. Still fast as lightning over short distances he never learnt the word “quit” when chasing, tackling or attacking. This week he even popped up in the box, chased down what the keeper spilled, was first to recover when his shot ricocheted into the air and then showed all the poise of a young Michael Owen to squeeze the ball between the posts from a very tight angle. Needless to say he brought the house down and the Magpie faithful had to be restrained or they would have carried him off the field in triumph.
The Bs also welcomed back Daniel Mardle from injury and his determined and efficient play once again became one of the strong pillars of a committed backline, which is gaining more flair with the commanding Sam Putallaz who delighted the crowd with his strong runs from the back. His first goal of the season won’t be far away. Josh How and Rob Murphy on the left and right again showed great determination and kept the Breakers at bay despite constant pressure. Ben Stewart had another fantastic game, inspiring his team mates with his calm play under pressure and strong tackling.
Josh Miller was back between the sticks for the injured Mark De Lange and kept the Magpies in the game with his clever anticipation of the play and many good saves.
Connor Fenlon and Neshy Westbury spread danger across the wings and Westbury also threatened from distance, while Mackenzie Lawson excelled in his attacking midfield role. Michael Driver worked hard to present a target and was unfortunately denied a penalty when he was bundled over in the box after gaining possession in a good position. Ben Harris made his return upfront and showed he is still a threat when unleashed. Jess Kim had a very strong game when he came on, tackling hard and winning a lot of the ball and Armin Mayer put a lot of effort into his defensive work to strengthen the backline.
Daniel Kim and James Lea went out on the wings and their speed almost paid dividends as the Magpies flexed their muscles in the second half. In the first half the deadlock was broken by two penalties inside five minutes for the Breakers. Let’s not discuss the first one. It would end in tears. Then they put in one more to be 3 up by half-time.
After the 4th goal, Phillips turned the tide, but alas no more goals followed. The Bs had certainly improved on their first round performance and are now looking to get a win against South Coast.
The As welcomed their own Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Pine Hill Stadium. Lachlan Traeger started proceedings by latching on to a misdirected clearance from the Breakers keeper and hit it first time from the right wing. The ball flew a good 35 metres and landed perfectly in the far corner. “Zlatan” Traeger then calmly acknowledged the adoring crowd before play resumed and yes, Breakers won this one as well. However, it has to be said that despite the challenges of the season the players are using these matches to grow and develop. Damon Epstein is finding more time on the ball every game and his pass conversion rate is highly commendable. Joshua Macowan is always looking to use the ball creatively and productively and you can see that the team is working hard for each other to put their opponents under pressure. This week they couldn’t repeat their epic win against Iggys, but they will be hungry for South Coast next Saturday.
8th August – Hahndorf v Old Ignatians
Do you remember that day at Christmas when you were 5 years old and Santa made all your dreams come true, because he got you the toy you wanted the most? Well, the travelling Hahndorf fans had that very same feeling when the final whistle sounded against Old Ignatians at Glenunga.
However, if Santa was involved, he certainly didn’t bring much for the Bs. They must have been naughty that week. I mean there was a 30 yard wonder goal from midfield maestro Ganesh Westbury and Michael Driver did force a great save out of the keeper. And it is far to say that the backline with Sam Putallaz, Graham Phillips, Alex Martin and Josh Miller repelled their fair share of attacks, but somehow all their efforts failed to gain more rewards on the scoresheet.
Mark De Lange’s saves continued to add up as well as the bruises his fearless goal keeping was subjected to. Two studs drawing blood at the end certainly weren’t a pretty sight.
Connor Fenlon, Ben Stewart, Armin Mayer and James Lea did compete well in midfield, but the team found it difficult to penetrate Old Ignatians’ box.
Jess Kim, Daniel Kim, Joshua How, Kyle Fenlon and Jackson Doley brought fresh ideas and movement when they came on, but somehow the teams’ “Thomas the Tank Engine train set” wouldn’t quite work when they tried to set it up and they will have to go back to the shop next week to check out the misfiring points.
Enter the As who were up against the joint leaders in the competition. Searching for their first win of the season, the Magpies started in grim fashion with Richard Epstein, Adam Barrera, Big Mo Roennfeldt and Tully Probert building a wall behind a midfield which started to click right from the opening whistle. Joshua Macowan was able to create space in centre and formed a strong partnership with the impressive Michael Newman to set up an even contest in the first fifteen minutes. However, then the old script tried to repeat itself. Iggy’s got through on the wing, one cross, an unmarked player in the box and the Magpies were one goal down. Fortunately the club has a number of amazing players from their own youth who are making their presence felt on the big stage.
A few minutes later outstanding young defender Tully Probert stepped up for a free kick from 35 metres. His emphatic effort was missed by the keeper took a deflection or two and ended up in the back of the net. A well deserved first senior goal by a young man whose work rate has been exemplary.
Question: How do you know when you have an exceptional striker on your team?
Answer: When he can score you a goal even though you can’t get him the ball.
Goal-kick Old Iggy’s with the keeper standing wide, the defender hesitates and young Jack Anderson runs him down. He collects the ball and with the keeper rushing in from the side calmly slots it home. The stadium virtually exploded and you could see a few heads drop in the home team. Now the Magpies were on fire with Damon Epstein using his skill and vision to hold the ball or play in Callum Vickers who worked tirelessly to compete for headers and put immense pressure on the defence.
At half-time the Magpies went in with a 2-1 lead. The heads were up and Lachlan Traeger continued the second half where he had left off in the first. His work rate and clever anticipation of play saw him get a lot of ball for the Magpies and Hahndorf continued to have good ball movement, but the home team’s attacks proved to be more dangerous and ten minutes in they found an equaliser.
Fortunately, Jack Anderson was in no mood to concede any points today. He somehow found the ball on the left again, beat his marker and expertly slid the ball past the keeper into the far corner. Alan Shearer would have been proud. Goals lift teams and Adam Barrera’s strength in the air wins headers. Macowan, Newman, Traeger and Damon Epstein continued to look for the best option and it was great to see them work so hard for each other. In the end it was Macowan who latched onto a ball in midfield, spotted Anderson and sent him down the wing again. Anderson did get into the one on one position with the keeper on a wider angle and as everyone wanted him to shoot his young head also proved to be the wisest on the pitch. He calmly passed the ball across goal into the centre where the tireless Callum Vickers had anticipated his chance. He pounced on the perfect pass and walked the ball into the open net. As Anderson’s ball rolled across you could feel a G-rated “Oh dear” coming from the Old Iggy supporters.
4-2 down the home side did not distinguish themselves through fair play. A bit of ref intimidation, swearing, a grab of a Hahndorf neck behind play and an elbow in the back of Magpie keeper Thomas Cribb did not make the game more enjoyable. Unfortunately, for Old Iggy’s, Cribbo never learned to flinch. Whether he was scraping balls off the line, punching away crosses or defying flying feet in close one on ones he remained a tower in the storm. Iggys came home strong. They missed a penalty and set up a number of close chances. Westbury and Driver came on to replace Damon Epstein and Michael Newman. Iggys did pull one back, but they couldn’t extinguish the new flame of confidence in the Magpies who won the game 4-3. Anyone and everyone got around the heroes who had snatched something from a frustrating season. The club song was roared proudly across the city and as Santa’s sleigh headed back up to the Hills where he must live, we hope he can come back next week with another big present for the resurging Magpies.
1st August – Hahndorf v McLaren Flat
Hahndorf Take De Lange Way Home
Why would anyone watch EPL when you can come to Pine stadium and see the Magpies take on McLaren Flat? Fourteen goals, three penalties and a bit of cardboard colour should satisfy even the most ardent football fan.
The Bs welcomed back new Dad Ben Stewart, as well as Josh Miller and Joshua How and thanks to Captain Graham Philips started downhill with the wind. Daniel Mardle and Samuel Putallaz ran a tight ship at the back and Hahndorf were able to have more of the ball in the opening phase. Ben Stewart and Armin Mayer combined well to release the ever menacing Connor Fenlon and the “The Ghost”, Michael Driver, upfront. However, it was a great shot from Alex Martin which put the visitor’s on notice. Unfortunately, the venomous drive sailed just over the crossbar. Midway through the half the game evened up and as Hahndorf had not capitalised on its good play, the visitors felt it was their turn to flex their muscles. However, the defence held firm with Graham Philips and Mackenzie Lawson holding back the wings and showing the tenacity and determination the club needs in this difficult league.
Ten minutes from the end of the first half the breakthrough did come. A persistent assault on the Hahndorf defence was capped off by a neat finish into the far corner. Unfortunately, for the visitors this was the moment when Hahndorf keeper Mark DeLange closed the shop. The shutters went down and for the rest of the game he could not be beaten. For it was his birthday and he was in a grim mood. Two free kicks straight into the bottom corner were neatly dispatched to the side. One on ones, corners and shots inside the box seemed to be child’s play for the man between the posts and even a penalty midway through the second half was psyched over the fence.
Kyle Fenlon and Kane Gibbs brought more speed into the team and in the second half Hahndorf’s hard work was rewarded with a penalty. Michael Driver stepped up with the Dorf Nation willing him to equalise and just like a 1990s Andy Brehme, he did not disappoint. His cool finish brought the crowd to their feet. Lawson was then sent off after he had been pulled down and pushed back. He couldn’t have foreseen that his previously aggressive opponent would cartwheel all the way down to Hahndorf Main Street. Obviously everyone is watching Neymar these days.
Down to ten men, the Dorf started throwing kitchen sinks, bailing water and were busy parking two buses to hold the draw. James Lea was providing welcome speed in the middle and with one minute to go it looked like the Dorf was home, until they conceded another penalty.
So thirty seconds to go the Bs were staring at another close defeat. However, the young man who stepped up had to stare straight into the eyes of the Panther. Mark De Lange did not flinch and the ball sailed over the bar.
The point had been saved and the Magpies had received all the luck which had been denied to them in the last four weeks. Football is a mad game.
The As had young Jack Anderson in devastating form and his outstanding hat-trick will be remembered for a long time. It was also great to get Callum Vickers back on the score sheet after his injury and the team is clearly improving every week. Ganesh Westbury has shown he can play in any position and Tully Probert is a young player who is already dominating his position and seems to have no issues asserting
himself against bigger opponents. Lachlan Traeger and Damon Epstein are also going from strength to strength with Joshua Macowan and Nathan Roennfeldt providing a lot of creative play through midfield.
Michael Newman has also been a valuable addition to the A Squad and Adam Barrera and Richard Epstein show an exemplary work ethic each week. And it certainly wasn’t due to excellent keeper Thomas Cribb that the As finally did lose this high scoring encounter. Nevertheless all the building blocks are in place. Maybe the lads can put the shed together next week at Old Ignatians. I wouldn’t bet against them.
18th July – Hahndorf v South Coast
Magpies draw a line in the sand
For their last major away trip for the season the Magpies arrived at Hackham to play South Coast. Just before kick-off both sides were informed that the ref had to rush his son to hospital and was unavailable. No further details are known, but we wish him and his son all the best.
The Magpies had a “Lord of the Rings” type wind at their back in the first half and used it to their advantage. Jess and Daniel Kim as well as Armin Mayer in the central midfield were able to gather a lot of possession, while Connor Fenlon and Alex Martin created a strong presence on the wings. The only thing missing was that precise final pass to striker Michael Driver to carve out some clear chances.
South Coast also got into the game, but were well held by Captain Daniel Mardle and Graham Phillips at the back with Tully Probert (man of the match performance) and Robert Murphy creating a lot of pressure on the defensive wings.
This strong resolve by Hahndorf was then turned into a lead when Connor Fenlon pounced onto a ball in midfield and Daniel Kim’s run took him past the keeper and he then finished strongly from an awkward angle.
Ten minutes from the end of the half the ref spotted a handball in the box and South Coast were able to equalise from the spotkick. Nevertheless the 3,000 travelling supporters on Zoom were much encouraged by the performance and were in near ecstasy ten seconds after Hahndorf had taken the kick-off for the second half. The ball went from Mayer to J.Kim to D.Kim to Michael Driver who scored a magnificent half-volley into the far corner.
Against the wind the Magpies did their best to defend the lead. “The Panther” Mark DeLange was once again a giant in the goal and the Magpies held firm for the first twenty minutes. Unfortunately, the wind made all crosses very dangerous and so they conceded from a long ball which was well trapped and put away. Substitutes Kyle Fenlon, Jackson Doley, Mackenzie Lawson, James Lea and Ben Harris battled hard and helped to get the side back into attack. Particularly Jackson Doley had a number of penetrating runs down the left wing.
With three minutes to go South Coast broke through for the winner with a well worked move and cross.
The Magpies new structure and determination had yielded many improvements all over the pitch. This could be a turning point for their season.
The A-Grade also set out to play the best game of their competitive season. For the first twenty minutes South Coast could not find a clear chance on goal while the Magpies held their structure and battle hard with Lachlan Traeger and Nathan Roennfeldt somehow finding the ball first and Michael Newman putting a big exclamation mark next to his A-Grade selection.
Then within five minutes the wind blew a corner directly into the goal and the ref found a penalty as two players were going for a high ball and the Magpies were down 2-0 and keeper Thomas Cribb had only had to make one save until then (a fantastic one I might add). That’s football. But the Magpies held firm and worked hard against the top side.
Unfortunately, four players were forced to go off with minor injuries (three in the second half) and the Magpies finished with ten men. Nevertheless it appears the Magpies have drawn a line in the sand in this difficult Covid zoned group and now have a number of home games to look forward to.
11th July – Hahndorf v Southern Breakers
Magpies don’t make port
The long flight to Port Elliot saw the Magpies arrive in good spirits. Everyone had been expecting hailstorms and a massive downpour, but the weather remained kind during the duration of both matches. Unfortunately, the Southern Breakers unleashed a storm of their own which had the Magpies bailing water from a leaking boat for most of the two games. At times they were able to match the Breakers intensity but they could never dominate play for significant stretches of either game.
Therefore the highlights from the day included star midfielder Ben Stewart becoming a Dad. Of course, he did this off the pitch and the club is delighted for him. Keepers Mark “The Panther” DeLange and Thomas Cribb also added another 50 saves to their Gordon Banks portfolio and the sweetest moment of all was when big contender for man of the match, Lachlan Traeger, finished off a devastating run and sugar sweet cross from Callum Vickers for the Magpies single goal of the day.
Tully Probert was honoured with his senior shirt for rising up through the club’s junior ranks to take his place in the first team. The Magpies also welcomed back Samuel Putallaz and Josh How and these two club legends will be a welcome boost for the rest of the season.
In conclusion, the Covid group zones, have provided the Magpies with plenty of challenging opponents. However, the club is delighted with its growing squad and the cohesion in both teams. The players ran their hearts out to the end and continue to build on the revival last year. Clubs are bigger than matches and this one is hungry for the next step.
4th July – Hahndorf v Old Ignatians
Magpies return home
Due to Covid restrictions the usual 50,000 gave way to less than a hundred dedicated supporters who witnessed Hahndorf SC’s first home game of the season. Captain Daniel Mardle lead out the Bs who had narrowly missed out on a result against McLaren Flat last week. Old Ignatians proved to be a well organised and resourceful opponent whose experience had the ball on a string for a number of moves throughout the match and this made it difficult for Hahndorf to dominate possession.
Nevertheless the defence around Mardle held firm as the evergreen leader used his vast experience to cut out the visitor’s approach play through remarkable anticipation of each move. In this he was ably assisted by Mackenzie Lawson, Michael Driver and Damon Epstein, who combined well to keep a clean sheet well into the first half.
Man of the match though was Mark “The Panther” DeLange who turned back the clock and seemed to build his own as he threw himself in front of rushing boots, saved a truck load of one on one opportunities and generally seemed to have a third hand which somehow saved his side from a bonanza of St Iggy’s goals.
Armin Mayer also lent a hand to clearing the danger while Daniel and Jess Kim sought out Kyle Fenlon and Alex Martin on the wings. Some neat approach play almost saw the ever dangerous Callum Vickers score before St Ignatians broke the deadlock and Hahndorf was down by one at the break.
At half-time the new generation of Hahndorf players who have transitioned into the senior teams from the club’s youth were honoured with their senior shirts and Jack Anderson, Kane Gibbs, Kyle Fenlon and Jackson Doley quickly showed the great skill and determination they bring to the team.
Big Mo Roennfeldt and Ganesh Westbury also entered the fray and the Magpies were duly rewarded when Kane Gibbs sensational cross fround Michael “The Ghost” Driver at the far post and he duly nodded home. Do I need to mention that St Ignatians had revamped their team and that despite a valiant effort by Hahndorf they had gone up 5-0 by that stage? Surely not. Football is back at Pine Avenue. The Magpies are blowing out the cobwebs and are back with two teams. The future is looking bright.
In the As it was a game of two halves. Let’s focus on the second one, where Jack Anderson took the man of the match award with his sensational volley. This effort would have looked good in any league. He also scored another one from close range which meant the Magpies won the second half 2-1. Do I need to mention that they lost 6-2 overall? Surely not. Thomas Cribb in goals also collected save after save forcing the frustrated visitors to collect a bit of cardboard in the second half. Michael Newman made a highly successful debut in the As with his precise passing and excellent anticipation of the play.
In the end the Magpies could have had a few more, but now they need to rest up for the long flight to Port Elliot. It was good to be home.
Champions in League
At the end of last season, both the Strathalbyn Strikers and Hahndorf SC, had had their fill of long trips to the suburbs to play their league matches. So the idea for a pre-season home and away challenge was born. One game would be held in beautiful Strathalbyn and the other in delightful Hahndorf. No trips down the hill would be required and the coaches would have the chance to change their tactics for the second game against a known opponent. Two trophies were also organised for this “Champions in League” Challenge. The name was meant to signify that two champion clubs were “in league” together to secure a challenging pre-season. Well, the series did not disappoint. Every game was a cracker with a minimum of five goals scored in each one. Both B-teams featured a number of talented youngsters from both clubs, which bodes well for their future. In the A-Grade the second clash highlighted how a “second go” at the same opponent can really tighten things up and a real arm wrestle gave each player a perfect work-out.
The camaraderie between the clubs was also a welcome feature of the games. Symbolic bottles of wine and stout were exchanged and even half a roll of toilet paper, which as we know, has become the most precious commodity on earth. If the pandemic we need not name here had not intervened, about 20,000 fans could have attended the games, but there is always next year. We wish both clubs all the best for the season. Hold the Hills banner high as you motor back down to the suburbs.
**** Match Reports 2019 ****
14th September – Hahndorf 0 v 1 Monarchs
Half time score was 0-1.
Second half continued to show how intense this game was, with Hahndorf pressing forward and providing opportunities for forwards Michael Driver, Ben Harris, Callum Vickers and Robert Murphy to kick the equaliser. The Magpies however, clearly struggled to cleanly finish their chances. An opportunity came late in the second half with a run down the wing from Roennfeldt, only for his shot on goal to go straight to the keepers hands.
7th September – Hahndorf 1 v 2 Gleeson
The Hahndorf Magpies celebrated the return of a number of players as they pulled up to Lindblom Park to play third placed Gleeson in the second to last match of the SAASL Div 7 2019 season. Hahndorf started well with Callum Vickers and Ben Harris using the gusty wind to get behind the Gleeson defence. Lachlan Trager and Damon Epstein gave strong support from the wings and a few handy chances were being carved out. Unfortunately, the Gleeson keeper had an impressive day and denied Hahndorf an early breakthrough.
The defence with Nathan Roennfeldt, Sam Lamey, Ganesh Westbury and Mitchell Foley stood firm despite some fast Gleeson attacks, but they could not keep out a thunderous strike from the Gleeson Captain, which went top corner, inside of the post. Hahndorf then had another scare with a good Gleeson counter attack just a minute later hitting the inside of the post but thankfully staying out this time. A couple of Armin Mayer corners and a great Traeger cross saw Hahndorf go close but the equaliser didn’t materialise. Josh How, Josh Miller, Rob Murphy and Graham Phillips brought new energy into the team and Hahndorf finished the half with slight advantages in play, but 1-0 down on the scoreboard.
At the start of the second half Damon Epstein found Harris with an awesome through ball, but the star striker’s thunderous shot was well saved by the Gleeson keeper.
Michael Driver fought hard, but was forced out of the game after a crunching tackle. Jack Farrimond had another outstanding game and it was his wonder strike after a short defensive punch from a corner which brought the equaliser. Now Hahndorf threw everything at Gleeson, determined to turn the game. Despite all their efforts and chances the Magpies couldn’t find a winner. Keeper Mark de Lange saved all that could be saved and appreciated Foley’s help when the young star defender scraped another ball off the line to keep the scores level.
With five minutes to go it was Gleeson that found the winner with a powerful header from a well taken corner. Hahndorf rallied one more time, however a miracle was not forthcoming. The loss now has the Magpies hoping for external assistance to keep their championship dreams alive in the last round of the season, away to Monarchs next Saturday.
31st August – Hahndorf 5 v 0 Adelaide Uni
Now the Magpies are hungry for the big clash against Gleeson next week. This title race will go right down to the wire.
24th August – Hahndorf 2 v 1 Pitbulls
An Old School contest greeted the Hahndorf away fans at Thomas Moore Stadium with the Pitbulls in no mood to hand over anything to the visiting Magpies.
Fortunately midfield legend Ben Stewart settled the Hahndorf nerves ten minutes in when he perfectly controlled a well weighted Jacob Kemp cross in the box and volleyed expertly into the far corner leaving the keeper no chance. A wonderful goal, which was of immense importance to the contest as the Magpies ran into the blustering wind.
Captain Richard Epstein organised a revamped defence with the usual foresight and efficiency and his men where soon sorely tested as the Pitbulls began to dominate more of the midfield and started to pressure the Hahndorf goal. Studs scraped flesh, a few bone crunching tackles and in the middle of it all Nathan Roennfeldt always found time and space to assert himself, Lachlan Traeger displayed an unbelievable amount of tackling stamina and forward drive and Callum Vickers combined beautifully with Josh How and later Lawrence Kyambadde to relieve the pressure on the defence.
Unfortunately, for the Dorf, the Pitbulls strongest phase in the game resulted in a well headed equaliser and the teams were level at the break.
However, in the second half the whole squad once again exemplified what is great about Hahndorf in 2019: Positive talk, constant support for each other and a playing group where everyone works for the team. Blake Horton, Adam Barrera (split lip and all), and Joshua Miller churned through the kilometres, as their second and third efforts ensured the Pitbulls could rarely settle on the ball.
Armin Mayer was back in the centre after missing for a few weeks and helped to reclaim some aerial dominance for the Dorf. Roennfeldt, now in the centre as well, began to trouble the Pitbulls’ defence and Hahndorf began to carve out more chances. However, with Pitbulls holding firm it became clear that another touch of real class was needed to split the teams. Enter Ganesh Westbury who had been terrorising the opposition down the wing and through the middle with his sublime ball control. 20 minutes from the end another panic ball had dropped in the Pitbulls box. Five players were madly scrambling for the ball, but Westbury was quicker. A quick two touches ensured he had the space to slot the ball perfectly into the far corner. If you have ever seen an equally stunning finish it must have been while you were playing FIFA 19 on your console.
Westbury wasn’t finished yet. He controlled the ball on the right wing five minutes later, sized up the situation and played the most brilliantly weighted through ball for Callum Vickers. The Maggies star striker drove straight for the goal and then had the presence of mind to slide it across to the instinctive run of Damon Epstein. D Epstein then displayed all his class as he stopped the ball dead and calmly slotted home to all but seal the victory.
In the last ten minutes there were plenty more heroics from goalkeeper Mark de Lange and the ever reliable Jack Farrimond to keep the last Pitbulls attack at bay. Joshua Miller withstood three players as the last defender and somehow threw out a leg to block the shot.
When the final whistle came the Maggies were exhausted, but keen to celebrate a well deserved victory.
Team Manager Lynley Driver, whose invaluable organisational skills have made this team a well oiled machine was pleased to note that the Magpies are still slightly ahead in this exciting three way struggle for the title.
17th August – Hahndorf 2 v 1 Salisbury Sharks
Finally, Magpies were VICTORIOUS winning 2-1. Such a special win, securing top spot on the ladder for another week.
10th August – Hahndorf 2 v 3 One Tree Hill
Today Saturday 10th of August, Hahndorf senior men where matched up against the One Tree Hill. Kick off was at 11:30am. With a very windy match ahead and small amounts of rain the men had a battle on their hands. A minute of silence took place at the beginning of the game to pay respect to one of the oppositions family members.
Joshua Miller was in goals and did a fantastic job stopping shots on goal, truly some spectacular saves!
First half was very intense with One Tree hill kicking the first goal only two minutes into the game. Setting the scene for an intense game ahead. First goal kicked by the maggies was by Michael Driver our team captain! Both teams had many attempts on goals, pushing the defenders to the limits in the harsh weather.
Half time score was 1-1.
Second half continued to provide a hard battle for both teams, with continuous attempts on both goals. Second goal scored by the Maggies was by Samuel Lamey with a chip over the keeper. Second half Maggies applied the pressure to One Tree Hill. With the match drawing closer to time all the Magpies supporters were on the edge of their seats hoping for time to be called. Unfortunately, One Tree Hill scored again at 12:50 and another at 12:55.
Finally, after a hard game. The score was 2-3. One Tree Hill was victorious today. The Maggies despite their defeat showed wonderful sportsman ship and resilience despite the actions of One Tree Hill.
3rd August – Hahndorf 4 v 0 PAC
Pine Hill Stadium’s near capacity crowd saw the Magpies take on an unpredictable PAC squad who were determined to leave no obvious holes in their defence.
Captain Richard Epstein and Samuel Lamey continued their formidable partnership with Lamey also becoming an attacking threat throughout the game. Mitchell Foley was once again everywhere, his speed and desire for the ball proving often too much to handle for the PAC midfield. Adam Barrera expertly managed to get his body in front or his foot to the ball and with this starting formation in defence PAC found it difficult to create any clear chances which could have threatened the goal of Joshua Miller, whose safe hands and calm demeanour impressed the crowd.
About three minutes in someone flicked the switch on winger Lachlan Traeger and he went up another level of intensity, harassing the PAC defence with well timed runs, solid tackles and constant support and second efforts.
Slowly the pressure began to build on PAC with strikers Ben Harris and Callum Vickers, getting into good positions and Jacob Kemp delivering a number of promising crosses into the box. One went through the keeper and dribbled along the line, but no one was there to turn it in.
Ben Stewart and Jack Farrimonddominated the midfield for Hahndorf, but all the promising build-up play was too often blocked by one determined PAC leg. Just as the fans were getting a little frustrated, Callum Vickers stood up to take a free-kick 20 metres out. Forget Messi, this Baby curled nicely and dipped under the bar and the stadium was alight.
Ganesh Westbury and Damon Epstein also made the wings their own. Josh How had a great shot just go wide.The ball movement and positioning from Hahndorf was strong throughout and more pressure resulted in a penalty for the Magpies, which was unfortunately not converted.
Nevertheless the team took a 1-0 lead into the break. In the second half, Foley, Damon Epstein, Westbury and Kemp got the fireworks happening down the right wing. Stewart kept winning the ball and pushed forward while Farrimondmade about 100 headers his own.
Corners, crosses, shots and always bodies in the way, it seemed the ball was determined to evade the elusive net. Fortunately for Hahndorf, Traeger had brought his Thor powers, which included the hammer he unpacked in the 55th minute to thunder a volley into the small gap between the keeper and the post. What an emphatic strike to give his team the reward it so richly deserved.
Five minutes later he added his second with a well placed low shot from the edge of the box and crowned a magnificent performance with the decider. But the Magpies were still hungry. With Lamey in the box winning headers and Westbury and Traeger always finding the ball to create more chances, Vickers showed his poacher’s instinct when he pounced on another loose ball and made it 4-0. Fill-in player coach Armin Mayer then subbed himself on discovered he really wasn’t fully match fit and took himself off after a few nice tackles.
Captain Richard Epstein played the perfect game ordering his hard working defence and presenting himself always in the right place at the right time.
The final whistle marked the end to a fair and engaging contest with both sides never letting up. The fans were happy and the three points could see the Magpies rise to the top of the ladder if the other results go their way.
20th July – Hahndorf 3 v 0 Gleeson
Today Saturday 20th of July, Hahndorf senior men where matched up against Gleeson. Some would say today’s match was a clash of the titans with Gleeson top of the ladder and Maggies sitting on 3rd. It was a game not to be missed.
The weather had finally cleared up and there was plenty of sunshine. In goals today, we had Joshua Miller, whom as always did a fantastic job stopping shots on goal.
First half was very intense with both teams wanting victory! During the first half the Maggies had more possession of the ball and the game stayed the midfield. Robert Murphy had the first kick at goals but was unable to make it past Gleeson’s keeper. As the first half continued Hahndorf had many attempts on goal but were unable to get them into the back of the net. Ganesh Westbury set up a beautiful play finished Nathan Roennfeldt for the first goal of the match for Hahndorf.
Half time score was 1-0. The Maggies had plenty of support on their home ground. There were many kids barracking for the home side. Chants to support their parents and families in such a tight game. Even players who weren’t playing came down to cheer their team to victory. All this created the perfect atmosphere for a win.
Second half continued to show the intensity of the game, with continuous attempts on goals from both teams. Hahndorf and Gleeson showed resilience in this high paced game. Shortly after the start of the second half, a beautiful play from Nathan down the right wing set Michael Driver up to slide through 3 defenders and slot a goal passed the Gleeson keeper, who had started coming out from goals. This was the second goal for Hahndorf! As the game went on frustraton was building for Gleeson who were still hunting their first goal. This lead to a penalty for Hahndorf to be taken by the cool and calm Ganesh Westbury. Unfortunately the nerves got to him and he launched the ball over the cross bar. Close to the end of the game Nathan scored his second goal for the match, giving Hahndorf a 3-0 lead.
Finally, Maggies were VICTORIOUS winning 3-0. Big thanks to Gleeson for coming out and their contributions in producing a great game.
13th July – Hahndorf 3 v 0 Adelaide Uni
22nd June – Hahndorf 5 v 2 One Tree Hill
Back from a two week bye, the Magpies were keen to continue on their winning ways and make it three in a row as they took on One Tree Hill at Pine Hill Stadium. The first meeting had ended in a 2-0 win to the OTH boys and so Hahndorf Captain Michael Driver demanded a solid start from his squad.
He wasn’t to be disappointed with Callum Vickers creating trouble from the outset, heading just wide from a Driver corner. Hahndorf had the early pressure but were fortunate not to go behind after a One Tree Hill counter attack. The shot was well saved by Mark “Panther” De Lange.
The fans were enjoying the contest, but were eager for the home side to break the deadlock. Cometh the hour cometh the Roennfeldt. A quick move down the wing, past his defender then finding the net to make it 1-0 and settle the nerves of player-coach Graham Phillips. The second followed quickly. A well taken goal kick bounced on for Vickers. His through ball found Rob Murphy in his first game back from injury, his first shot saved but he tucked away the rebound and sent a thousand black and white flags waving.
With the two goal advantage the Magpies took the foot off the pedal and were duly punished with two quick ones and the scores were level. Not what the Magpies had hoped for, but Callum Vickers who had already been in just about everything made it 3-2 with a clinical free kick to the bottom corner.
In the second half Mitchell Foley, Richard Epstein, Samuel Lamey, Mark deLange and Adam Barrera shut up shop and kept a clean sheet for the second half. Foley is starting a tradition of spectacular clearances in the six yard box and had another great moment putting out the enemy fire.
Lachlan Traeger, Ganesh Westbury and Damon Epstein continued to cause headaches with their speed and excellent passing. However, this half belonged to Josh Miller whose work rate has been impressive throughout the season. When the OTH keeper spilled a corner into the box, Miller reacted first to make it 4-2. Then Damon Epstein drew gasps from the crowd when his volley thundered against the bar. Graham Phillips, Lawrence Kyambadde and Josh How kept up the pressure on the visitors and made sure that the tide could not turn again. Miller struck again after his relentless pressure secured the ball and he beat two defenders to send the fat Magpie off singing into the sky. Another three points were in the bag against quality opposition. The Magpie Navy was in fine voice as the players stayed for a chat and a giggle with the fans. Next week they are set to do it all again against Salisbury Sharks, on their quest for the top perch.
1st June – Hahndorf 5 v 1 Prince Alfred College
Parklands to meet an unpredictable PAC side for a chance to make it two from two.
With the Panther (Mark De Lange) back between the posts and goal machine Callum Vickers back from
England, Hahndorf brought an impressive squad to the city and the first five minutes proved that no matter
where you play, Nathan Roennfeldt is a handful for any opposition. Carving down the left like a strong blade
from the Hahndorf Knife shop, his crosses and runs established the Magpies’ early territorial advantage.
vintage Vickers. A long ball from Armin Mayer split the last two defenders and Vickers didn’t hesitate for a
second. At full pace he got to the ball first, slipped it around the last defender who lost his footing, steadied,
danced around the keeper and calmly slotted the ball home. It is one of the joys of amateur football that you
occasionally see Premier League quality for free. This effort from Vickers was straight from the top drawer.
Epstein and Blake Horton combined like a well oiled machine to extinguish spot fires at the edge of the sixteen
yard box. Mark De Lange also read the play well to collect long crosses and clear by foot when necessary.
The biggest threat came from a PAC corner which bounced around in the six yard box, before Foley cleared it
off the line with a desperate lunge. Hahndorf also had a few more chances as Nick Lamey and Joshua How
came in to produce a number of excellent short pass combinations.
keeper produced a brilliant save from Ben Harris’ well struck penalty.
nicely for Horton and like him often managed to turn defence into attack. In the end it was Traeger again who
popped up in the box, got his shot on target and watched as a PAC defender mishit a spiral into his own net.
3-0 to the Dorf and now a few PAC heads should have dropped, but they fought back to re-establish
themselves in the midfield.
fine crosses from the right. The ball was in the box again. Driver left it for Roennfeldt and he showed all his
class slotting the fourth into the left bottom corner. Then another Westbury cross eluded the entire defence as well
had already sung. The boys from the Hills had made it two in a row and will now continue to sneak up the
ladder in their bid for the top perch. Their next game at Home against One Tree Hill, Saturday 22 June @ 3pm.
25th May – Hahndorf 7 v 0 Monarchs
After last week’s disappointing loss to Sharks, Hahndorf Captain Michael Driver was keen to see his team bounce back against Monarchs at Grange last Saturday. The imagined 50,000 spectators welcomed the Magpies who were dazzling in their bright yellow away kit.
From the outset Hahndorf’s defence proved itself to be rock solid with central defenders Richard Epstein and Samuel Lamey presenting a formidable partnership which created an impenetrable fortress with the aid of speed machine Mitchell Foley and the relentless pressure from Adam Barrera.
Brave keeper Joshua Miller (still carrying a slight injury) kept the first clean sheet of the season and communicated brilliantly with the defence to secure long balls against and with the wind.
The first few minutes were tentative on both sides. The rain had stopped and players were matching up, but Hahndorf found their rhythm first with Nathan Roennfeldt proving to be an unstoppable force down the left wing for the duration of the game. After a few warning shots on both sides Kemp drew three players made his own space and timed his cross to perfection. Sailing into the box it was met by a stylish header from Driver who rocked the stadium like a Harry Kane and sent the ball into the top corner and Hahndorf into the lead.
A couple of minutes later Armin Mayer snuck past two down the same wing and his sugar coated cross was met by young star striker Ben Harris whose header also found the top corner and sent the away fans into raptures.
The quality of both goals had spectators questioning whether they should have paid more for their tickets. And well they should have, as it took only a few more minutes before Roennfeldt danced down the left wing again, dragging the entire Monarchs defence behind him. He cut inside, steadied and made it three with a quality low shot into the corner.
The scorer’s pencil then began to smoulder when Roennfeldt and Driver combined and the latter produced almost a carbon copy of his first goal to secure a 4-0 lead at half-time.
Hahndorf were determined not to relax and the quick combination play from quality midfielders Jacob Kemp, Ganesh Westbury and Damon Epstein together with Ben Stewart’s central dominance ensured that the resurging Monarchs couldn’t put too much pressure on the Magpies’ defence. Versatile striker Lawrence Kyambadde continued to cause headaches for the Monarchs. The fifth came when Driver reversed the order and found Roennfeldt steaming down the left and his low shot snuck under the Monarchs keeper, which was his only error in a good performance.
Now all the nails were in the coffin, but Hahndorf were determined to keep hammering on the lid.
Kyambadde rolled a perfect ball through to Roennfeldt and his low cross was met by the Ghost (Michael Driver) for his hat-trick. They call him the Ghost because you can’t see him and you can’t defend against him.
In the end Mayer found Harris one more time and in a classic “the defender’s got this, no he hasn’t” Harris hammered the ball into the far corner for the final score of Hahndorf 7 Monarchs 0.
Monarchs are certainly a better side than this score line and the game was played in an excellent spirit with the only low points being an injury to Damon Epstein and a Monarchs player. However, there are some days when they all go in and Michael Driver’s Captain’s Knock ensured that Hahndorf are back in the hunt for the title
18th May – Hahndorf 2 v 5 Salisbury Sharks
Hahndorf played host to the Salisbury Sharks in a rescheduled game on Saturday 18th May, due to the wedding duties of the Sharks players. The weather that had been great all week turned on one more start for the game before the forecast rain arrived.
From the whistle both teams were probing each other with a high tempo game and the Sharks had a few quick tricky players in their line up aiming to cause maximum disruption Hahndorf’s stable back line.
Early opportunities were not taken by either side. Hahndorf’s defensive line of Richard Epstein, Sam Lamey, Mitch Foley and Cody Ackland were up to the challenge, until a clash of players resulted in Ackland taking an early rest due to a foot injury. An adjustment saw Nathan Roennfeldt move to right back and Ganesh Westbury come off the bench to go into midfield next to Adam Barrera, Jacob Kemp and Lachlan Treager. Hahndorf applied pressure with Roennfeldt Foley overlapping wide on the left and right linking with Westbury and Treager.
Treager using his pace to blast past the Sharks defence, and speed on his side, to provide a decisive cut back. Roennfeldt’s cut backs provided more promise and found Westbury who turned on his player and slotted the ball past the Sharks keeper – Hahndorf 1 Sharks 0.
Michael Driver, in a forward position, turned his marker and powered toward goal, rounded the keeper then unfortunately sliced the ball wide. The Sharks also had their chances on goal, only to be denied by the outstretched hand of keepeer Mark deLange.
Hahndorf created several scoring opportunities, one were Westbury was one on one with the keeper but failed to score.
Sharks evened up the score after a quick ball movement and found a team mate with too much time to score from 12 metres. Both teams continued with the upbeat tempo and with 10 minutes left in the first half the Sharks won themselves a penalty which they converted to lead 2-1 at half time.
The second half continued at the same speed and after consecutive corners Hahndorf took advantage of the pressure. The ball cleared nicely to the edge of the box ripe for a Westbury strike, low and hard through the crowded area and found the right hand corner of the net., levelling the score, 2 all.
Hahndorf, buoyed from their efforts to equalise, intended to tighten up and take the game away from the Sharks. A long clearance by the Sharks and an unexpected bounce, opened up the defensive line and a concerted effort by Hahndorf to cover could not prevent the goal, with 10 minutes left Hahndorf 2 Sharks 3.
Hahndorf continued to attack, as did the Sharks only with more success, tricky, quick ball movement created another opening for Sharks to score, down 4-2. Hahndorf were being pushed back and the Sharks, taking long range shot, deceived keeper deLange to end the scoring at Hahndorf 2 Sharks 5.
11th May – Hahndorf 0 v 1 Gleeson
The Hahndorf men were up against Gleeson, the top side, for the Round 6 clash away. The Magpies were keen to test themselves against the league leaders and were pleased with the hard fought 0-1 loss.
From the start, play went back and forth, end to end, with Hahndorf Keeper Josh Miller into the action early, stopping Gleeson’s shots on goal. The defensive line of Richard Epstein, Nathan Roennfeldt, Samuel Lamey and Blake Horton holding strong and deflecting away balls coming their way, leading them into the half time break with a clean slate.
The second half proved much the same, with the both teams managing the deflect the ball out of their defensive halves. Ganesh Westbury and Ben Stewart combined well in midfield, providing space and options for the forwards.
Gleeson managed to get the upper hand and slotted a goal in. With only 15 minutes remaining Hahndorf were unlucky not to equalise, but were satisfied with their strong performance.
Special thanks to Gleeson for a great game and their hospitality.
Next weekend sees the Magpies play a postponed game at Home at 3pm.
13th April – Hahndorf 3 v 1 Pitbulls
Today Saturday 27th of April, Hahndorf senior men where matched up against the Pitbulls. Kick off was at 11:30 am. Our captain today Michael Driver, started the team off by welcoming our new team member Ben Stewart. With that done the Senior Men were driven, and victory was soon to follow!
In goals today, Hahndorf had Mark De Lange whom did a wonderful job stopping shots on goal. The first goal came to Hahdorf, put in by Callum Vickers with the support of Richard Epstein at the 20-minute mark. Soon after the Pitbulls scored their first goal. The first half did not disappoint with the Magpies scoring a second goal! This time by Lachlan Traeger with assistance from Ganesh Westbury.
Half time score was 2-1
Second half showed us having more and more shots at goal with our attackers settling into their positions well. Hahndorf’s third goal was scored by Ben Harris. For the remaining 10 minutes of the game the Pitbulls threw everything they had at the Hahndorf defence, but Michael Driver, Richard Epstein, Nathan Roennfeldt and Blake Horton kept that defence pressure on. The whole team dropped to support the tiring defence and outlasted the onslaught.
Finally, Maggies were VICTORIOUS winning 3-1. Special thanks to the Pitbulls for the great game and wonderful hospitality.
6th April– Hahndorf 0 v 2 One Tree Hill
Today Saturday 6th of April, Hahndorf senior men were matched up against One Tree Hill. Kick off was at 11:30 am, already the sun had a lot of bite, but thankfully there was a nice breeze. Our Captain for the day Armin Mayer, started the day off by welcoming our new team members; David Nye, Ganesh Westbury, Cody Ackland and Mitchell Foley. He followed by thanking all the players for coming out and had a few inspiring words.
In goals today, we had Cody Ackland who showed great sportsmanship assisting an opposition team member up off the ground and handling himself well when faced with adversity. Our defence was on fire in the first half with Nathen Roennfeldt showing great pace and keeping on the pressure. Despite all our efforts the opposition scored their first goal at 11:35, although we had multiple shots on goal ourselves, we were not successful.
Second half showed us having more and more shots on goal, with our attackers settling into their positions well. In midfield Armin had a great defensive header, allowing us to recover possession. Richard Epstein kept pressed the opposition hard, keeping the defensive pressure on, Mitchell Foley did some beautiful throw ins from the side line and Lachlan Traeger showed great resilience, after being hit by some harder tackles.
Although we played a great game which had you at the edge of your seat the entire time, we lost
0-2. Special mention to Lachlan Traeger’s father Stewart Traeger for coming out for us and running the line, Callum Vickers for bringing out the oranges, and our wonderful team manager Lynley Driver for all the hard work she has put in to organising everyone.
**** Match Reports 2018 ****
8th September – Hahndorf 3 v 6 McLaren Districts
1st September – Hahndorf 4 v 1 Monarchs
25th August – Hahndorf 3 v 1 Elizabeth Downs
Hahndorf Senior Men’s A team played Elizabeth Downs at Argana Park on Saturday in Round 19 of the SAASL Div 3 . The sunny weather was a welcome relief from previous weeks but the warm conditions tested hydration and fitness. This didn’t prevent both sides running hard throughout the encounter.
Hahndorf’s Peter Atkinson and Scott Ayris were particularly quick in attack, weaving thought the Elizabeth Down’s defence to press forward and chase down long passes. They combined with Ganesh Westbury to have a number of opportunities to score but were consistently frustrated, the shots going wide or straight to the keeper.
In spite of having a quieter presence, it was Nathan Litchfield who scored first. He took advantage of a scrappy encounter in front of the Hahndorf goal five minutes into the game to dribble the ball past the keeper and put Hahndorf one up. Ryan Douglas and Nathan Roennfeldt were equally swift in pursuit, chasing down the Downs attack when they took the opportunity to break away. The Hahndorf defence provided solid support for keeper Bodi Love, who had a safe pair of hands for those balls that did make it through.
Captain Hamish Vickers was focussed in midfield, reading the play well and passing cleanly. He worked well with Josh Gurung and Jake Griffith to keep play in the Hahndorf forward half for much of the game.
However, it was Saxby Fisher on the wing who was the consistently dynamic presence in the game. His footwork, speed and tenacity challenged the Elizabeth Downs players throughout. Ten minutes into the game Fisher was instrumental in clearing a strong chance for Elizabeth Downs. Love got a hand to the shot to keep it out, but when the ball fell behind him it was Fisher who kicked it over the side line to neutralise the threat. Half an hour later Love made two saves in close succession before Fisher again put an end to the attack, ensuring that Hahndorf ended the first half one ahead.
Hahndorf started the second half with the aim of maintaining a clean sheet. However, when Elizabeth Downs made a flying attack a couple of minutes after the start of play, they left Hahndorf stranded in the midfield. Hahndorf’s speed and a valiant effort by Love could not prevent the score being levelled at one all. A few minutes later the Downs attacked again, this time with Roennfeldt, Douglas and Griffith in hot pursuit. In spite of the pressure exerted by Hahndorf, the shot, which ricocheted off the post, almost saw Elizabeth Downs pull ahead. It was a close call and appeared to galvanise Hahndorf into action. In comparison, Elizabeth Downs became increasingly frustrated.
With Hahndorf committed to building their score, it was Fisher who enabled them to regain the lead in the 25th minute of the second half. A strong attack resulted in the ball being cleared by Elizabeth Downs over the base line. Atkinson’s corner kick was beautifully placed, and Fisher made no mistake in heading the ball through the massed Elizabeth Downs defence to score Hahndorf’s second. A diving save by the Downs keeper two minutes later stopped Ayris from making it three. When Hahndorf was awarded a free shortly after, Atkinson made sure it counted. Kicking from the corner of the 18 yard box he looped the ball over the keeper into the top corner of the net to bring up Hahndorf’s third.
Even at two up Hahndorf did not get complacent and continued to press Elizabeth Downs. Jack Kinnear, Jason Brinkworth and Aidan Leith came on in the final 15 minutes of the game, adding a fresh burst of energy to the Hahndorf side and maintaining the pressure. While they were unable to add to the tally, they also assisted in preventing Elizabeth from scoring either, resulting in a final score line of three to one to Hahndorf. It was a well-deserved and loudly celebrated win for Hahndorf, who maintained their focus, communicated well and put in a consistent team effort.
18th August – Hahndorf 1 v 2 Adelaide Uni
Hahndorf Divison 3 Men’s As played Adelaide Uni in blustery conditions. The teams were well matched, resulting in an interesting and close game. Hahndorf started well with midfielder Jack Foster scoring in the ninth minute. However, after this early success Hahndorf were unable to capitilise in spite of having multiple opportunities throughout the game.
Foster, assisted by Nathan Litchfield and Jake Griffiths in midfield, played well throughout, sending the ball wide and into space for the forwards to run. The defence line of Nathan Roennfeldt, Hamish Vickers, Ryan Douglas and Saxby Fisher pressed well and passed cleanly and keeper Bodi Love held the attack, going into the break 1-nil up.
Hahndorf’s Peter Atkinson demonstrated great speed up front and while Jack Kinnear also had opportunities to add to his tally for the season, he was unable to finish. Ganesh Westbury frustrated the opposition in attack, providing movement in front of goals. Hahndorf, however, were unable to regain their early momentum allowing Adelaide Uni scored twice in the second half. The game concluded as a two to one loss, which was a disappointing outcome for the away team.
28th July – Hahndorf 4 v 5 Prince Alfred
Hahndorf travelled to the Eastern Adelaide parklands to take on Prince Alfred FC on Saturday. The magpies got off to the perfect start as a Hamish Vickers through ball found Peter Atkinson who drove the magpies into the lead. The perfect start was shattered however, as Prince Alfred showed their quality and quickly leveled the game, before adding 4 more in a flurry of attacks. During this collapse, Hahndorf lost center back Brad Seidel to injury, forcing a re-shuffle to the team. Rattled, Hahndorf went into half time knowing they had pride to play for in the 2nd half, as the Prince Alfred side were more than capable of adding another 5 to their tally. The second half saw Hahndorf start to play as they started the game, with structured passing and pressing, which soon earned them a free kick. Ganesh Westbury whipped it in from a crossing position and bursting runs by Jack Foster and Vickers meant the ball was deflected and the goalkeeper was unable to keep the ball from trickling over the line, taking the score to 2-5.
The game continued in a fast, even fashion and Hahndorf’s next best chance was created by Jake Griffiths, with the midfielder delivering a perfect cutting through ball onto Atkinson again, who finished for his second and Hahndorf’s 3rd of the game. These two second half goals tilted momentum as always, lifting Hahndorf and unsettling the Prince Alfred chemistry. Prince Alfred had their chance to put the game to bed but didn’t take it, meaning Hahndorf still had the chance to pull of the impossible. A quick throw in found an advanced Nathan Litchfield who came on into center-back, and the super-sub smashed in a “worldie” which landed in the top left corner, taking the score to 4-5. With the elusive equalizer only a goal away now, Hahndorf kept pushing with minimal energy left and were almost rewarded. A ball from the center found its way to Griffiths who battled with a defender and lifted the ball over the Prince Alfred keeper, but the effort unfortunately landed on the roof of the net. This was the last effort of the day for the Magpies as the referee blew to end the game. A proud fight back from the visitors, winning the 2nd half 3-0, but wasn’t enough with Prince Alfred winning the game 5-4.
14th July – Hahndorf 2 v 5 Pitballs
Hahndorf faced Pitbulls at their Pine Avenue home ground on Saturday, with the pitch looking about as good as the magpies played. They raced into the lead early against the impressive Pitbulls, with a Saxby Fisher ball finding Ganesh Westbury one on one with the keeper, and made no mistake, taking his tally to 9 goals for the season. It was looking decent for Hahndorf until Pitbulls knocked in a quick-fire double which left the magpies looking for answers. A tight affair was played out with Pitbulls having the control of the game, meaning Steve Ness, Brad Seidel, Nathan Roennfeldt and Fisher had their hands full constantly. When Hahndorf did have their chances, it was the likes of Westbury, Nathan Litchfield and Peter Atkinson that looked most likely – however the quality was missing, and Pitbulls scored their third before half time. Being 1-3 down at half time for the second week running, the home team needed a big half as they attacked “down the hill”.
It was an improved 2nd half as momentum swayed the way of the magpies, and they got their goal back when a Fisher corner landed in front of unmarked captain Hamish Vickers, who was able to take a touch and finish with ease to bring it back to 2-3. With the referee informing that 30 minutes still remained, Hahndorf sensed another comeback and pushed towards it. Unfortunately the quality was again missing from Hahndorf and meaningful chances were not created. With constant Hahndorf attacks, it took Pitbulls just one long ball forward and their main striker ran away and slotted the all assuring winner. Hahndorf threw most men forward searching for anything, but nothing amounted and yet another long ball forward by Pitbulls found their marksman who slotted another against a depleted Hahndorf defense. The disappointing game finished 2-5 in favor of the Pitbulls, with Hahndorf next having a bye round which may be a blessing in disguise considering recent form.
7th July – Hahndorf 6 v 4 Flinders Uni
30th June – Hahndorf 0 v 3 Murray Bridge
Hahndorf travelled to Murray Bridge determined to win and close the gap at the top of the table. Hahndorf started with good energy pressing in midfield, with Jake Griffiths getting involved in early play leading to Hahndorf winning multiple corners however, both were kept out by the Bridge keeper.
A midfield battle was developing with play being in the middle third of the ground. Bridge looked for a ball through, but Hahndorf defender Steve Ness cut it out and linked up with Jack Foster and Scott Ayris to counter attack but, the shot at goal was put wide. Left back Nathan Roennfeldt was linking up well with midfielder Josh Gurung creating good opportunities. Bridge started to play on the counter and had multiple opportunities that were ultimately pushed wide by the Hahndorf keeper Bodi Love or cut out by well-timed challenges from central defenders Ness and Brad Seidel.
Bridge missed a chance when Hahndorf’s keeper played the ball directly to the Bridge centre forward, the returning shot pushed wide and scores still 0-0. Bridge had a chance from an in-swinging corner but keeper Love stood tall and took a strong pack grab.
Hahndorf’s press upfront was working with left winger Peter Atkinson pressuring the Bridge keeper and getting a deflection which was cleared off the line. Soon after a corner for Hahndorf fell to midfielder Gurung who unfortunately mistimed the shot.
The game was end to end, a turnover in the midfield by Hahndorf lead to a Bridge counter where the ball was popped up for the Bridge left winger, on the edge of the box surrounded by defenders the Bridge player got a fortunate touch on the ball which chipped Hahndorf’s keeper.
Hahndorf kept positive and attacked well with a fantastic cross in from Ayris which picked out Ganesh Westbury’s head, the header missing left by the finest of margins. End of the first half, Bridge 1-0 up.
Hahndorf had a free kick early in the second half on the right edge of the Bridge box. Atkinson tried to bend it into the top left corner but, the shot was slightly high skimming over the cross bar. The game continued in its end to end fashion. Seidel was solid at half way defending the long goal kicks from the Bridge keeper while Hahndorf tried to play out from the back with Saxby Fisher and Roennfeldt combining well.
Bridge attempted a long throw into the box, where their centre midfielder skilfully hit the ball on the full and beat the Hahndorf keeper on the inside post. Hahndorf tried to play wide and attacked down the wings with Fisher playing dangerous crosses into the box. Westbury found himself with the ball on the edge of the 18 and had a shot, it was on target for the top right corner until the Bridge keeper, at full stretch, popped it over the crossbar.
Hahndorf were constantly attacking and introduced left winger Jack Kinnear, to replace Ayris, into the game but a midfield interception by Bridge left Hahndorf weak at the back. The Bridge winger was forced wide by Seidel but eventually whipped in a cross to the free centre striker who made no mistake.
Atkinson, looking for something, tried a long range shot that had good pace but the Bridge keeper easily gathered it. Bridge played hard until the end forcing Hahndorf to defend a barrage of long throws and corners. The game was now opening up but any further opportunities were stopped by the final whistle. After 90 minutes it was Bridge 3, Hahndorf 0. Both teams fought hard all game, but it was Bridge who were more clinical upfront. Hahndorf will be looking for payback when the teams meet at Hahndorf in round 22.
23rd June – Hahndorf 3 v 1 McLaren Districts
Hahndorf Senior Men’s As team took on McLaren Districts in Round 10 of the SAASL Division 3 Competition. The free-flowing game saw play moving swiftly up and down the pitch, with both teams evenly matched throughout. The resulting encounter was fast paced, physical and exciting.
Hahndorf went into the game missing some key players but came together well as a team. Peter Atkinson lead the team well in the absence of regular Captain Hamish Vickers. Nathan Roennfeldt put in a strong performance, making numerous runs, intercepting well and taking advantage of the opportunities, including having a couple of shots at goal.
It was an in-form Peter Atkinson, who has recently returned from injury, who scored first for Hahndorf. Having combined well with Saxby Fisher on a number of occasions, he picked up a pass from Fisher and, with all the time in the world, made sure that the ball found the back of the net 30 minutes into the game. An accurate free kick in the second half almost added to Hahndorf’s score, but was saved by an excellent dive by the Districts keeper.
Hahndorf’s Scott Ayris, also demonstrated great speed and skill in the field, ensured that the team lead by two nil at half time. Having missed a penalty kick early in the game, he redeemed himself, threading through the McLaren Districts defence to score in the 32nd minute. He had a number of other scoring opportunities during the game but was unable to finish.
Other regular Hahndorf scorers, Jack Foster and Ganesh Westbury, were also unable to add to their tallies. However, it was not for want of trying, with both testing the McLaren Districts defence. Westbury came close in the second half, but the shot was punched over the cross bar by the keeper.
In spite of the two nil lead at half time, play did not go all Hahndorf’s way. Stephen Ness, Roennfeldt and Brad Seidel were kept busy in defence, putting pressure on the McLaren Districts attack and ensuring that keeper Bodi Love was well supported. Love also put in a focused performance, with a great save 20 minutes into the game the highlight.
Jake Griffiths and Josh Gurung were also proactive, moving the ball well and feeding it forward. One run by Griffith early in the second half drew the keeper well out of the goal, the shot rebounding off a McLaren Districts defender to Ayris, who kicked high over the open goal.
As the second half progressed the play grew increasingly physical and at times scrappy. An incident of dissent resulted in a red card for McLaren Districts 20 minutes into the half. Five minutes later Hahndorf had brought their score to three, when a cross from Ayris found 17 year old Jack Kinnear, which he finished beautifully, drawing a shout of “he’s just a boy” from one delighted Hahndorf spectator.
Just when it looked like Hahndorf would finish the game with a three nil win, McLaren Districts had one last attacking run. When Love slipped in the box, they wasted no time in working their way around Ness, who was the only defender in range, to score their only goal. The remaining 10 minutes of the game were dominated by Hahndorf, who were unable to add to their score, making the final score three to one to secure the win for Hahndorf.
16th June – Hahndorf 1 v 6 Monarchs
Hahndorf travelled to Grange to play Monarchs for Round 9 of SAASL Division 3A competition. It was a very windy and cold day with rain threatening on the horizon, the weather would prove to be as disappointing as the final result with Hahndorf going down 6-1 to a team they had beaten convincingly in pre-season.
The game started with Hahndorf losing the toss and having to kick into the wind, which made it difficult for the back four of Saxby Fisher, Bradley Siedel, Jake Griffiths and Nathan Roennfeldt to get the ball clear of the defence, allow lots of pressure to be applied by Monarchs. After 10 minutes of back and forth with some last ditch defending from Hahndorf, the Monarchs pressure paid off with a long ball deceiving the keeper Thomas Cribb, allowing a Monarchs player to open the scoring. As the rain intensified, Scott Ayris and Matt Stenson from the B’s squad were withdrawn for the delayed Blake Malligan and Brandan Pizzato, who with Peter Atkinson formed a devastating Hahndorf attack. Hahndorf started to control the game more through the midfield of Jack Foster, Ganesh Westbury and Nathan Litchfield, allowing the forwards to apply more pressure on the Monarchs; however to Monarchs long ball tactics proved difficult to deal with, as they scored their second to make it 2-0. Hahndorf continued to push, with good play down the right hand side through Fisher and Malligan, providing an opportunity for Pizzato to score and make it 2-1. As halftime approached, Monarchs managed to score another goal from a corner, to make it 3-1 going into the break.
The second half begun with several chances from the likes of Malligan and Griffiths with none hitting the target, while Monarchs quick frontline proved more and more difficult for Hahndorf to deal with. The pace of Monarchs proved too much, with Hahndorf conceding two penalties in the space of minutes, which were converted to make the score 5-1. To avoid the chance of a comeback, Monarchs resorted to time wasting tactics, which reduced the momentum of Hahndorf with only sporadic chances from free kicks allowed. Hahndorf continued to push as much as they could to not avail, as a corner from Monarchs late in the game proved to be the nail in the coffin to make it 6-1. In a disappointing day for Hahndorf the team pushed throughout the game but the strength of Monarchs proved too great.
9th June – Hahndorf 3 v 2 Elizabeth Downs
Hahndorf met Elizabeth Downs on a seasonably mild day at Pine Avenue to win 3-2 in front of a Home crowd for Round 8 of the SAASL Div 3A clash. The game started in an even fashion, with both sides jostling for possession and trying to create chances. In the first ten minutes, the teams looked evenly matched and each had several corners. Despite no clear-cut dominance from either side, it was Hahndorf who took an early lead after Elizabeth Downs lost the ball deep into their own half-Nathan Litchfield cleverly seeing that the keeper was out of position and sublimely chipping him. Hahndorf grew in confidence and saw themselves narrowly miss a couple of chances. Elizabeth Downs, however, continued to make it hard for Hahndorf and fought to get back into the game. The game remained even, with no side asserting dominance. Hahndorf’s defence, consisting of Hamish Vickers, Nathan Roennfeldt, Bradley Seidel and Peter Atkinson, played well to ensure that Elizabeth were limited to a small number of opportunities. They were assisted by a strong midfield of Litchfield, Joshua Gurung and Jack Foster who had to work hard in the difficult opening minutes.
Hahndorf were delighted to score a second in the 24th minute. This goal, like the last, saw Foster win the ball in midfield and sublimely chip the keeper. Yet this did not deter Elizabeth, who rallied and found space to create chances, although their few shots were saved by Hahndorf’s keeper, Bodi Love. The game continued to be played in an even way, but 32 minutes into the first half Elizabeth scored after a long ball from the centre-back to the right-midfielder. Elizabeth continued to press but were unable to find the net. At half-time the score was 2-1.
The second half continued in the same vein as the first, with both sides struggling to get the upper-hand. Both had opportunities, but it was Hahndorf who started to have an advantage. The forward three of Brandan Pizzato, Matt Stenson and Ganesh Westbury were combining in a positive fashion. It was in the next 20 minutes that Hahndorf consistently created opportunities and were rewarded when Westbury passed to Pizzato, who scored. Elizabeth remained defiant, and 7 minutes later halved Hahndorf’s advantage after going one-on-one with the keeper. Hahndorf lifted their game after conceding and continued to make chances, whilst having the majority of possession.
The Magpies played well to resist Elizabeth’s pressure and despite many long balls forced into their half (which were propelled excellently by substitute Jake Griffiths) for the remainder of the game, Hahndorf attacked with pace and it was only by the tiniest of margins that they didn’t score again. They created many chances and continued to progress into the away team’s half, working very well to dispel Elizabeth’s attempts. Hahndorf ran out worthy winners but were made to fight consistently against a strong side.
2nd June – Hahndorf 4 v 3 Adelaide Uni
After the impressive win last week Hahndorf Senior Men’s As team were looking to follow up with another win this week. Opposition Adelaide University were equally keen to make this a challenge and had the ability to make it one, resulting in an exciting and physical game.
Hahndorf pressed Adelaide hard throughout. Play moved quickly up and down the pitch but tended to gravitate to the Hahndorf end as the game progressed. Great speed and ball skills allowed them to influence the play along the full length of the pitch, intercepting the Adelaide attack, sending the ball forward and creating numerous opportunities to score.
Hamish Vickers, Saxby Fisher, Nathan Roennfeldt and Brad Seidel were all active in defence as well as making opportunities to attack. They were joined in the second half by Peter Atkinson, Scott Ayris and Jake Griffith, who injected fresh energy and also took the opportunity to have a shot at goal whenever they could. Keeper Bodi Love was also instrumental in limiting the Adelaide score, starting in the first five minutes when he punched out a free kick. He continued to provide a strong last line of defence throughout, capably assisted by the defenders.
Josh Gurung, Jack Foster and Matt Stenson were proactive in midfield, also coming forward when the opportunity presented. Foster had the first real chance to score for Hahndorf in the 10th minute, but it was not to be, with the ball going high. Gurung also had a chance in the 18th minute but sent the ball straight to the keeper.
In spite of the early opportunities for Hahndorf, it was Adelaide first on the score board in the 20th minute, sending the ball decisively into the corner of the goal. This was followed up by strong attacking play, which was shut down by Vickers on one occasion with a magnificent clearance from the goal square, and soon after by Seidel, who sent the ball well into the midfield with a huge kick.
Blake Malligan, Ganesh Westbury and Brandon Pizzato led the Hahndorf attack, with strong support from the remainder of the team, who kept feeding them the ball. Westbury had a strong chance at half an hour in but couldn’t convert. However, Pizzato successfully equalised five minutes later with a cross that beat the keeper to find its way safely into the corner of the net. He tried to repeat the effort a few minutes later but the shot went wide.
At half time the score was one all, and Hahndorf were obviously keen to build on their score. Westbury opened the second half with two unsuccessful shots in the first five minutes, the first assisted by Seidel. Westbury passed to Pizzato soon after, to give him a chance to emulate his six goal haul from last week, but the shot was picked by the keeper. This was to be his last opportunity for the match, with an altercation sparked by a poor tackle on Stenson resulting in Pizzato being asked to leave the field of play and Hahndorf down to 10 men for the remainder of the game.
This could have been the turning point in the encounter, but Hahndorf were clearly not going to let this throw their game. When play restarted, Fisher immediately set an attacking tone for the Hahndorf team, with a powerful kick from midfield which collected the top bar.
The desire to take play up to the Adelaide team continued, even after Adelaide scored their second a minute late to pull ahead by one. Again it was Fisher who lead the charge, sending a beautifully placed long ball over the head of the keeper and into the top of the net to level at two all.
It was Hahndorf Captain Vickers who put them in the lead, placing himself perfectly to head the ball past the keeper off a Fisher corner. This brought the game to a temporary halt while the team celebrated enthusiastically on the sideline. Then it was back to the task of consolidating their score.
Malligan had an attempt, which ended with him toe to toe with the keeper in the goal square. Atkinson’s attempt shortly after was high. Fisher was next to have a go, putting the ball wide. Then Westbury passed to Vickers in front of goal, but he couldn’t quite get a foot to it. The concerted effort finally paid dividends when a Roennfeldt pass
found Ayris, who couldn’t finish but did find Westbury. In a display of lightning reflexes, Westbury did not waste the opportunity to score Hahndorf’s fourth with 10 minutes left to play.
From this point on Adelaide put all their energy into trying to get back in the game. They pressed the Hahndorf defence with increasing urgency, but continued to be frustrated. With five minutes left to play they drew three consecutive corners, which could have presented problems, but Hahndorf remained focused and saw off each challenge.
At the final whistle Hahndorf were able to celebrate a well earned four to three win. Adelaide had challenged them whenever possible but were not a match for an in-form and highly focused Hahndorf, who were excellently led by Vickers and were clearly the superior team on the day.
26th May – Hahndorf 13 v 1 Salisbury Sharks
The Hahndorf Senior Men As team treated spectators to a fantastic game of soccer on Saturday when they met the Salisbury Sharks. They put on a fabulous display of skill, speed and team work to the delight of the home crowd.
The game started slowly however, with the game stopped almost as soon as it began when the Shark’s keeper dislocated a finger in the first minute of the game saving an early Hahndorf attempt on goal. When the game resumed Hahndorf wasted no time in resuming the attack. From that point on play was focused in the Hahndorf forward half.
Hahndorf played a running game, outpacing and outmanoeuvring the opposition, who played their best and made use of whatever opportunities they would in spite of being without key players due to injury. The Hahndorf forwards pressed throughout the game, and scored freely. They were joined on a number of occasions by players from the midfield and defence, who also added to the tally.
The key scorer was Brandon Pizzato, putting away three in the first half and further three in the second. Pizzato was also instrumental in bringing the ball forward for others. He was well supported by Blake Malligan, who opened the scoring in the 8th minute of the game and went to to score two more. Nathan Roennfeldt and Jack Foster also scored in the first half, with Foster being denied further opportunities to score by the Shark’s keeper, who did what he could to minimise the onslaught.
Hahndorf’s keeper Bodi Love also had work to do, making a daring save in the 25th minute. Another strong chance for the Sharks was shut down by a coordinated effort by Hamish Vickers, Saxby Fisher and Brad Seidel. Later in the half Bodi was drawn out of goal by another Shark attack, but was well backed up by Fisher, who shut down the opportunity for the Sharks to get on the score board. An uncharacteristic error by Fisher on the half time whistle did just that, when he headed the ball past Love for an own goal, making the half time score six to one.
Ganesh Westbury added one to the score in the 53rd minute, when he twisted in the face of goal to put away a cross from Pizzato. This made up for a missed chance a few minutes earlier at the start of the second half, when Westbury aimed for the top of the net and the Shark’s keeper just got his finger tip to the ball to make the save.
Westbury continued to intercept and feed the ball forward but reminded on one, with a free kick going high over the end net to land in the trees behind the pitch. Foster also played an excellent game, displaying great ball skills and foot work and passing the ball forward consistently.
Josh Gurung was the other Hahndorf scorer. Having been active in midfield and frustrating the Sharks, he saw a chance to thread through the defence, where he received a cross from Fisher and put the ball away to score Hahndorf’s 11th goal.
The impressive goal haul was made possible by the efforts of the whole Hahndorf team, who maintained good shape and communicated well. Roennfeldt and Seidel used their height and reach to intercept and gain possession, and moved forward when the opportunity presented. Centre back Vickers was wherever he was needed, reading the play well, passing cleanly and pressing the Sharks throughout.
Fisher used his speed and agility to great effect to intercept and move the ball down the wing. Matt Stenson was also dynamic, moving freely up and down the pitch and making use of the opportunities that presented themselves to direct the play. Scott Ayris and Jason Brinkworth, who came on in the second half, brought fresh energy and made sure that the Hahndorf attack remained strong to the end.
Towards the end of the encounter Hahndorf were clearly enjoying themselves. Fisher scissored the ball out of goal, denying the Sharks a late chance to score. Malligan tried to increase the Hahndorf score soon after with a backward flick, but had to be content with entertaining the spectators.
This concerted and skillful effort was rewarded by a convincing thirteen to one win to the Hahndorf team. The Sharks played well in spite of being dogged by injuries, with three stoppages required during the game. However, in the end they were no match for an in form Hahndorf.
19th May – Hahndorf 2 v 4 Fizi
The Hahndorf Senior Mens A team put in a mixed performance in their game against Fizi. Game play was scrappy with the team increasingly unable to find its rhythm or shape as play progressed.
The game commenced with a beautiful run down the wing by Blake Malligan, who continued to apply pressure throughout the game. However this promising start by Hahndorf was soon countered by Fizi, with their attack skilfully bypassing the Hahndorf defence and drawing keeper Thomas Cribb out of goal, leaving it wide open. Luckily for Hahndorf Fizi were unable to take advantage of the situation.
However 20 minutes into the game Fizi scored off a corner. They managed to ricochet through the crowded Hahndorf defence and put the goal away, just beating Hamish Vickers as he slid in a last ditch effort to deflect the ball.
In response, Malligan and Jack Foster kept bringing the ball forward in a series of inspired runs but neither they nor Matt Stenson, Josh Gurung and Ganesh Westbury were unable to take advantage of the opportunities provided. In the end it was a flick from Westbury in front of goal that allowed Stenson to score Hahndorf’s first goal. A few minutes later Malligan’s hard work paid off when he passed to Ganesh who headed in the second, taking Hahndorf one ahead. Nathan Litchfield tried to close out the first half with a third goal but shot wide just before the whistle.
Hahndorf began the second half optimistically with another skilful run, this time by Westbury, who was eventually intercepted. Once again Fizi responded with their own attack, and after a miscommunication between Vickers and Cribb, were able to level the score at two a piece. Five minutes later Fizi were one ahead after a scrappy encounter in front of goal. Another 10 minutes into the second half and they were two up, when a decisive kick from outside the 18 yard box found the back of the net.
However, while Fizi frequently had the advantage, particularly in the second half, they did not have everything their way. Keeper Cribb read the play well and thwarted many Fizi opportuntities. Nathan Roennfeldt passed the ball off cleanly and demonstrated determination in gaining possession. Litchfield intercepted and tackled well to regain possession for Hahndorf, passed accurately and brought the ball forward. Vickers and Saxby Fisher were also quick to respond to the Fizi attack and made a number of excellent tackles and intercepts. Jake Griffiths and Jacob Streckeisen, who came on in the second half, played with great physicality and energy respectively.
Hahndorf’s game became increasingly risky during the second half as they tried to get back into the match. In the forward half, Scott Ayris set up a number of opportunities either to score himself or to assist others and showed great pace, as did Stenson. Westbury was skilful in gaining possession of the ball but was not able to finish with his usual precision. This inability to put the ball away proved costly.
In contrast Fizi continued to pass accurately and intercept theHahndorf play before they could seriously threaten the defence. They had at least two more serious opportunities to extend their lead towards the end of the game, but Cribbensured that this was not to be. In the end the score remained at Fizi 4 to Hahndorf 2, with Hahndorf’s inability to capitalise on their strengths costing them the game.
5th May – Hahndorf 3 v 3 Prince Alfred
The Hahndorf Senior Men’s A team had an exciting contest with Prince Alfred College. PAC got things started early, scoring the first goal of the match shortly after kick off by converting a penalty kick. Hahndorf’s Jack Foster soon evened the score with a decisive goal that he set up with a strong run from midfield. Ganesh Westbury scored five minutes later to draw ahead by one.
Keeper Bodi Love worked consistently throughout to shut down other attempts by PAC in the first half. He was saved from having to dive to prevent a PAC free kick when the player sent the ball wide of the goal.
Towards the end of the half Brandon Pizzato carried the ball forward in an attempt to consolidate Hahndorf’s lead. He displayed great speed but couldn’t control the finish. Blake Malligan took a corner kick on the half time whistle but the ball went straight to the keeper. Therefore, in spite of all their efforts Hahndorf were two goals to one at half time.
PAC opened the second half by sending the ball into the top corner of the goal, levelling the score at two all. In response Westbury and Malligan combined to have a number of attempts at scoring but were foiled by the PAC defence. Eventually Pizzato went for a run from midfield to beat the keeper and defender and scored, topping off the effort with a celebratory hand spring. The celebrations were short lived however, when PAC scored from a free kick into the bottom corner of the goal to level once again.
Nathan Litchfield played a dynamic game, intercepting well and setting up a number of opportunities with accurate passes forward. Nathan Roennfeldt was the best in defence, working well to shut down the PAC attack with his speed and physicality.
As the second half drew on Matt Stenson, Saxby Fisher and Jack Kinnear all tried to add to the Hahndorf score without success. As well as his own attempt at scoring Kinnear took a free kick, but there was no one to pick up his cross. Litchfield sent an accurate pass to Ayris, who kicked towards goal, finding Fisher, but unfortunately Fisher’s header went wide. This was the last serious chance for Hahndorf to pull ahead. In the end they had to content themselves with a three all draw, which was a fitting conclusion to a well matched game.
21st April – Hahndorf 10 v 1 Pitbulls
Hahndorf Senior Men’s A-grade had a fiery encounter with the Pitbulls at Thomas More College on Saturday. Hahndorf took control when Ganesh Westbury scored an early goal from a pass from Saxby Fisher. A scrappy encounter in front of the Pitbull goal almost saw them level, but Brad Seidel, Hamish Vickers, Fisher and keeper Bodi Love combined to prevent them from scoring. Fisher and Nathan Roennfeldt worked hard on the wings, while Vickers and Seidel in the centre chased down a number of strong runs by the Pitbulls, providing Love with valuable support. They made it 1 – 1 half an hour into the game, beating a disorganised Hahndorf defence. The Pitbulls had another strong attempt at goal when a cross connected with the side post, ricocheting across the face of the goal, but couldn’t finish. Love trapped a free kick shortly after to stop them pulling ahead.
Hahndorf continued to press, with Fisher, Jake Foster and Matthew Stenson feeding the ball forwards and Josh Gurung also tenacious in the midfield. Brandon Pizzato and Blake Malligan had early chances and Westbury outmanoeuvred the defence to also come close to scoring on several occasions. Their efforts were rewarded when Pizzato was fouled in the goal square resulting in a red card for the Pitbulls defender. Pizzato made sure that the penalty kick counted, scoring Hahndorf’s second and ensuring they were one ahead at half time.
The Pitbulls started strongly in the second half, with play concentrated in their forward half. However, it soon became all Hahndorf, with the Pitbulls struggling with 10 men in the heat. Their keeper made a number of excellent saves throughout the half but couldn’t stop another two goals early in the half from powerful kicks by Westbury from outside the 18 yard box.
Gurung was next to score when a cross from Malligan found him perfectly placed in front of the goal. Litchfield also scored soon after being subbed on, making a skilful run past the defenders and going on to beat the keeper. He continued to be dangerous until the end of the game, but it was Jack Kinnear who scored next. Also fresh, he brought the ball from the midfield to cross into the corner of the net for his first A-grade goal.
Pizzato came close to scoring a second, which was saved when the keeper dived, getting one hand to the ball to push it out. However, he couldn’t be prevented from scoring the eighth goal for Hahndorf soon after, with his superior fitness and ball skills carrying him past the tired Pitbulls defence.
Love received great support from the Hahndorf defence and kept his cool to keep the Pitbulls scoreless in the second half. Vickers, Fisher and Seidel were joined by Stenson to make a strong defensive line. Foster continued to be dynamic in the midfield throughout, gaining possession through tenacity and good observation of the play to feed the ball forward.
Malligan was kept busy with a frustrated Pitbulls defence, responding to their increasingly physical play by using his superior speed and ball skills to win the ball and create opportunities for Hahndorf to score. His consistent hard work was rewarded when he picked a pass by Pizzato, which Foster was unable to get to, and scored Hahndorf’s ninth.
The final