This one got away from the Hawks as an outstanding start and first
half saw a number of errors have an impact on the match. The score
does not indicate the closeness of the game against the competitions
current leaders as the side put in an exhibition of controlled
soccer in the first half. Grabbing an early 1-0 lead compliments of
a long run and superb finish from Edwin George after only 15 mins,
the side maintained the pressure with further chances to Marc
Sluiter and Rob Carle, and looked to take the lead in at half time
until a miss guided cross from the side line managed to slip under
the bar to even things up.
In a
day that left the team wondering, a miss directed pass in mid field
let Balmain in for a run away goal half way through the second half
leaving the Hawks no option but to push forward to gain a result. With
all effort being placed on going forward the Hawks were open to a
counter attack that fell to the opposition in the dying minutes of the
match for the final score.
Man
of the match was Raph Larnach
Reserve Grade: Hawkesbury 2
Balmain 4
Following a strong start to the season the Hawks were left ruing the
missed chances against the leaders as Balmain took every opening
available to them. Rewarded with an early goal after Cain Mellan
pressurized the defence and slipped the ball to Andrew Jones who
neatly pushed it passed the keeper after 15 min. Balmain struck back
with two goals in quick for a half time score of 1-2.
The
opposition got on top in the second half finishing chances to be up
1-4 before Andrew Jones finished off a section of excellent team play
for his second goal.
