State League 2 Round 3: Eltham Redbacks vs Darebin Falcons
The Falcons travelled to Eltham last night to play in unfamiliar conditions – under lights, on an astro turf pitch, on a Friday night, infront of a large hostile crowd of Eltham supporters. With the team decimated by injuries in the first two rounds to key players – forward Sparky, Midfielders Monkey, Ria & Nicky, and sweeper Brenda – a somewhat depleted Falcons outfit took the field. However after conceding an early goal, the Falcons played well with midfielders Heather, Lauren, Niddie and Emily frustrating the Eltham attack and Jas B creating concern for them up front. The Falcons were awarded for their attacking efforts with a penalty which was only stopped by a brilliant save from the Eltham keeper.
As half time drew near, the Falcons tired and conceded three goals within the last ten minutes so went into the half time break 4-0 down.
The second half started promisingly for the Falcons and after instructions from coach Nicky, they began to get to the ball first with Ange and Alicia stifling many attacks down the wings, Carmen and Jas H holding up central defence and goalkeeper Sal making a number of saves. Nyssa and Amy H worked together up front to pass the ball around and Sina was dominant on the right wing. However, again as the half drew to a close the Falcons couldn’t keep up the instensity and the match finisheded at 7-0 to Eltham.
The next State League 2 match will be at home at 11.15 next Sunday against Brunswick Zebras.
The Darebin Falcons are still looking for women soccer players of all levels of experience for our Metro League and State League 2 teams so please contact Sally [email protected] or Jas [email protected] if you’d like to join us!