Tigers choke on Hawks, but U20s shine
On Saturday night at Lambert Park, the Under 20s buried Stanmore 4-0. In First Grade however, Balmain slumped to a frustrating 4-1 defeat, leaving the side winless after six matches.
First grade photos of the match here. Thanks to John Sowden.
Under 20s finally secured Balmain’s first win for the 2009 season, demolishing Stanmore 4-0 at Lambert Park on Saturday night. The Tigers went up 1-0 in the first half, but the Hawks forced their way back in the match during the middle stages. The Tigers rode out the storm, before hitting the visitors with a barrage of goals that sent the Hawks packing. The match also featured a fine penalty save from Jerry Martin, diving full stretch to his left to snuff out any hopes of a Hawks revival.
The First Grade fixture played out in stark contrast to the Under 20s. The Hawks took an early lead, punishing Balmain’s lack of organisation at a corner to score with a powerful header. The Tigers pulled up their socks and set about taking control of the match. For the next hour, Balmain were superior and created a couple of prime chances that unfortunately remained unconverted.
Tiger endeavour was finally rewarded as Balmain capitalised on an attacking throw-in. From Carl Modena’s delivery, Craig Andrews’ height wreaked havoc in the Hawks’ penalty area, and in the ensuing scramble Dave Hardwick hooked the ball over his shoulder to lob the keeper.
It was evident the Tigers’ run of draws was to come to an end, one way or another, as the game opened up. Liam McCormack hit the inside of the post, and the Hawks’ had opportunities at the other end.
Sadly for the home side, it was the Hawks who found the breakthrough. A nippy substitute forward made an enterprising run as the Hawks counter-attacked. From 20 metres out, his powerful finish beat the unsighted Hiro Fujiwara and the Tigers were down.
It was to get worse soon after. A sloppy giveaway in midfield lead to another counter, and a smart finish later wrenched the match from Balmain’s reach at 3-1. Moments later, a belting Hawks’ goal from 30 metres consigned Balmain to an embarrassing defeat.
Six matches without a win and the Tigers are getting desperate. Can they overcome the hoodoo next week against high-flying Inter Lions? The Tiger Ladies’ Club will be hoping so.
Finally, a warm congratulation to Ivan, Leo and the Under 20s, who in recent weeks have looked capable of beating anyone. They will now be hoping to build on the weekend’s victory and continue the climb up the table.
