Division 1 kick start 2011

After much anticipation throughout the pre-season, our Division 1 Metro United team finally kicked off season 2011 on the 27th of March with many new and returned faces.

Our first game of the season saw us travel to play against our old rivals from years gone by, Adelaide Hills. We started on a negative note, conceding in the first half. After coach Leo and Jimmy spurred us on in the second half, Div 1 came out much harder and was able to score a well-earned goal. However, only one minute later we conceded and lost 2-1. Thanks must go to Brooke and Jess from reserves for helping out.

With the disappointment of the first up loss and season ending injury to Loren, our girls were lifted by the return of Rhiannon from injury and hard defender Lia becoming available to play her first game. Also, sentimental favourites Katy and club delegate Nicole lifted spirits by returning from retirement.

It was no wonder that we defeated Cumberland 5-0 in this encounter. Newly appointed deputy vice captain Mary scored 3 goals after running herself into the ground. Also, Zoe S won Leo’s award for best on ground for her role as attacking winger, scoring 2 goals and setting up many chances. Laura was awesome on the wing crossing the ball in and creating assisted goals. Nicole wowed the crowd as goalkeeper, with her timely saves and bouncing back from hard hits.

In round three, Div 1 again travelled to play against Seaford. We welcomed Steph Eisner to the club and promoted young gun Rachel from the under 13’s while Captain Sophie recovered from injury. This game was tough, as expected, and we managed to score a well-worked team goal to take a 1-0 lead to half time. In the second half our defence was under immense pressure. Carolyn was making great saves as stand in keeper, reliable sweeper Kerrilee and solid defenders Cassia and Lia were unstoppable, and Annie played her first game in defence, not letting Seaford score. Ten minutes before the final whistle, Steph scored a classy volley goal to ensure a 2-0 win and a promising start to the year.

Here’s hoping for more gutsy wins in season 2011.

Nancy Belperio
Div 1 Vice-Captain
#13