SL1 Vs. Camberwell [Rd 10]

Waverley 1 defeated by Camberwell 2.

The Panthers travelled out to Matlock to confront top of the table Camberwell looking for a win and top spot. The intense rivalry between the two clubs followed on from history and delivered a high-paced, skillful and passionate brand of hockey, reflected by the close score line.

Waverley began sluggishly and found themselves unable to take possession of the ball in any meaningful way. The lack of possession and high rate of turnovers resulted in Camberwell playing the first 15 minutes in their attacking half peppering the Waverley defence. This was somewhat indicative of the entire game with the Panther’s struggling to apply consistent pressure throughout the field.

Camberwell struck first after a breakdown in defence on the left saw an unpressured Camberwell forward have a clean shot at goal to open the account at 1-0. The Panther’s regained some composure and were able to reply through Luke Young, who continues his fine form up forward, to level the scores at 1-1. The hard earned goal was quickly undone with Camberwell converting a penalty corner just before half time, 2-1.

The Panther’s entered the second half with the confidence that they could undoubtedly improve on their lackluster start to the game. Waverley responded positively with a new found aggression and caused several turnovers from the Camberwell defence. Yet, both teams were unable to notch another goal causing a flair in tempers that resulted in a yellow card being awarded and Waverley down to ten men with 15 minutes on the clock. A late flurry from the Panthers was “to little too late” with the scores being finalised at 2-1 at full time.

The loss has thrown Waverley back amongst the mix vying for the top four. However, Waverley can take the close scoreline as a positive from the game after a below average performance as well as Tommy Scott having an outstanding day in the net to keep the Panthers in the game. It was also great to see a large contingent of Waverley support on the sidelines, it was much appreciated.

The SL1 competition has a break next weekend which will see the Panthers in training before repaying MCC for the round 2 upset. Waverley SL1 will resume at the State Hockey Centre at 3:30pm 11th of July.

Goals: Young (1)

The Skin Institute “Player of the Match”: Tom Scott

Team: Scott, Glasscock, Mutimer, Thompson, Jarvis, Joseph, Moore, Preston, Wischusen, Swindells, Dallimore, Brennan, Young, Fooks.

Photo´s Supplied by Brian Maddock