Men’s M1E v Greensborough (R6)
Greensborough was the setting for what would turn out to be a demoralising loss for an extremely undermanned 5ths team. After many phone calls it appeared we would be able to run with a bench for the second time this season. But a key player was poached by another team without notification and the KEW 5ths took to the field with ten players for the first fifteen minutes while our designated substitute was champing at the bit to get on and fill the void.
Despite this setback, Marcus moved into fullback and Lalor took control at centre half. Within minutes of play, KEW had the first penalty thanks to a great drive at goal by Steven Roberts and Lalor McMahon. The signs looked good and the boys certainly had great opportunities and weathered a mild storm for the opening period.
Pete Dabner was soon on the field and the team resumed their normal playing positions and were soon on the scoreboard. Brilliant play across the park and then more forward pressure resulted in a goal for Sam Lipshut making his debut for the 5ths. However, the scores were soon leveled with a quick reply from the ‘Borough. Pete was shown the cheese for knocking the ball away and was off for the rest of the half. Still, KEW had good possession but could not take the lead.
The intensity was good as was the ball movement – it just had to continue in the second half. Whether it was a lack of focus, concentration or fatigue setting in, Greensborough notched up their second and third goals in as many minutes. KEW kept making chances but could not get through what now seemed like a solid defence.
Several good plays by Seb Fuente, Sam, Macca, Paul and Steven opened up the defenses every now and then but could not not find the back of the net.
Special thanks to Sam and Pete for making themselves available for the game!
KEW take on Dandenong this Sunday at 11am at the home of hockey. If last year’s games against this opposition are anything to go by a bench will definitely be needed.
Full time score: 1-3 (HT 1-1)
Goals: Lipshut (1)
Best: Roberts, Keam, Fuente, McMahon
Next Game: M1E (9th) v Dandenong (3rd) 11:00 Sunday 31st May @ Elgar
