Round 2 - Ashburton

Warner Reserve was the venue for today's Round 2 match against Ashburton. An earlier start than normal with a 10am kick-off, however with the Sun shining and not a cloud in the sky it was perfect conditions for a game of football.

Today we had Michael and Jordan missing, so we only had 1 substitute. The game got off to a good start with Ashburton applying pressure to our defence. Before the match Ashburton agreed to play a modified version of the Off-Side rule. However it was evident early in the game that this would not happen, with 2 Ashburton players setting up camp in the 18 yard box. Eventually the young Box Hill Kangaroos cranked up through the gears and started to play their usual passing game.

Ashburton were persistent, but only until the first goal went sailing past their Keeper, courtesy of a free kick by Aaron S. This was perfect motivation for our lads and we continued to push hard into Ashburton's defence. The oppositions Keeper was doing a great job and pulled of some fantastic saves, but we still managed to get 4 past him by half time.

Supercoach Clifton Dragon told the boys during the half time break to continue to create space and look for passing options. A few players were holding on to the ball for too long and running into trouble. He also told the lads not to worry about the Ashburton players who were off-side and to focus on keeping possession and letting the ball do the work.

We had the benefit of a slight breeze and the Sun at our backs during the 2nd half, an advantage that Ashburton squandered during the first half. Once again we continued to control the majority of play, using the wide corridors to push the ball forward. Ashburton did manage a few shots from long range, however Marcel was never really challenged and he cleared the ball effectively.

Another 6 goals went past the Ashburton Keeper in the 2nd half and he probably saved as many chances again. A highlight was Declan's run through the entire Ashburton midfield and defence to score a brilliant solo goal. Another moment of amusement was the multiple shots on goal from inside the 6 yard box, the ball hitting the post 4 times before being cleared by Ashburton.

Apart from the disappointing effort from Ashburton, we did use the occasion to practice some of the things we have been doing at training. Some nice switches of play through the midfield and some great work along the wings with Charlie and Aaron D starting to show us what we all know they can do. Special mention to Hamish who hassled and harassed the Ashburton players in the midfield...well done !

Next week we are at home against Bulleen...hopefully more of a challenge than today.