Scotch College

Match Reports -Round 4 - 17 May 2008

Seniors

1st XI

Scotch 2 – 3 Melbourne Grammar

G Patouras

Near arctic conditions were experienced by players, parents and supporters of the inaugural Rose and Thistle Cup between Scotch College and Melbourne Grammar School. Once again Scotch found itself on the back foot after conceding an early goal to MGS and at half time the score was 2-0 in favour of MGS. This was due to an error by our defensive group that should not have happened.

The second half started with another MGS goal. It seemed that the final outcome was going to be as bleak as the weather. Things turned around once a number of positional changes were made. Anthony Tran scored and minutes later Sam Dean bought the Scotchies within one goal after converting from a left side cross. Nick Koumantatakis took control of the mid field whilst Al McMahon showed what a strong leader he can be. The defensive unit of of Lachlan Cohen, Tom (Junior) Jarman and Anthony Palazzo turned back numerous MGS attacks and Alex Harris came into the game showing very good determination and good skills. Henri Portet played an excellent game as did Justin Nikolovski who displayed excellent ball skills under such difficult conditions. Michael Hopwood again made excellent saves and put his body in dangerous situations.

Although we did not come away with a draw or win, I was pleased with our structure and ball control. The game was played in excellent spirit and sportsmanship and again the Scotch side should be proud.

2nd XI

Scotch 0 – 4 Melbourne Grammar

D Latimer

The Scotch seconds team exhibited the better brand of soccer against Melbourne grammar in Port Melbourne on Saturday, however ended a frustrating game on the wrong end of a mystifying 4-0 loss. For the majority of the first half our defence kept winning the ball and clearing danger looking strong and disciplined. Then going forward we looked to have more energy than they did, dominantly stringing passages of play together. Our midfield supplied our forwards with plenty of dangerous passes but we weren't composed enough in the attacking third to convert the pressure into goals. Unfortunately, luck wasn't on our side as grammar desperately managed to keep out what looked to be a few certain goals. Right before half time a misunderstanding resulted in an own goal from an unorganised defensive corner to give Melbourne the lead 1-0.

The boys braved the conditions determined to reduce the deficit after the break, however the bitterly cold morning got the better of the team minutes into the second half. We seemed to have lost concentration and started the half really flat conceding a lazy goal from a corner. The remainder of the half was similar to the first half; we created promising opportunities but couldn't reward the play with a finishing touch into the back of the net. As we searched for a goal we became unaccountable when we turned it over. As grammar ran through the midfield freely they scored two more scrappy goals before the final whistle.

Tallis was our best on ground as he perfectly adapted into a new role of general in defence, sweeping up loose balls and making important challenges. Mauritz and Aiden also had brilliant games creating well-worked attacks from the midfield. We played well as in large patches but lapses in concentration cost us. The four goals from corner-like situations were a disappointing discredit to the way we played.

3rd XI

Scotch 1 – 5 Xavier

M Keks

On a miserable day and on an undersized pitch, the 3rds managed to compete with what was clearly a better team. However, after a poor first half, we dug deep to have the best of the second half, until 2 late goals killed off the match. The scoreline was harsh, and in terrible conditions the team gave a good account for themselves. Goal: Simpson. Best: Speight, Poiton, Rubenstein.

4th XI

Scotch 7 - 1 Wesley

W Riedler

The fourths soccer team had an excellent win in appalling conditions at Glen Waverley against Wesley 7 : 1. All players performed well in slippery conditions and supported each other well. The Wesley team resorted to some “rough house” tactics once they saw they could not beat us and this produced some tension and bad feeling as the referee was rather “ordinary”. I think their ref so he let a lot of things go. Apparently after the game, after I left there were some more “discussions” between players which is unacceptable.

5th Red

Scotch 2 – 0 Melbourne Grammar

J Kafkas

The boys played Melbourne grammar and they were really pumped up to beat them. The match was pretty evenly contested and very passionate and intense. Scotch came out winners 2-0

5th Blue

Scotch vs Geelong College

A Vickers

5th Gold

Scotch (forfeit) 0 – 3 St Kevins

P Astruc

Scotch was forced to forfeit due to having not enough players, only 6 showed up. St. Kevins lent us a few players so we could have a game, which they won 11-2. All the boys that turned up put in a lot of effort in terrible weather conditions. Andrew Young and Chris Riley scored one goal each.

Year 10

10A

Scotch 3 – 3 Melbourne Grammar

E Broadbent

In trying away conditions and against a talented Melbourne Grammar side, we were under pressure early with Grammar holding much of the possession in the first half. However, their pressure rarely translated into a meaningful goal threat as our defence played with hunger and aggression. Indeed, we probably had the better clear cut chances to open the scoring when counter-attacking. Grammar’s pressure finally paid off however when they scored just before the break from a good solo effort.

Scotch began the second half with plenty of energy and urgency as we tried to claw back a goal; Bordonaro and Whitelock in particular rising to the challenge. A great move from defence to attack was rewarded when Strangward found the back of the net to level the score. After another great attack, Strangward bettered his first effort to give the team a lead with a strike from a sharp angle. After a great run and cross from Owen was deflected in for a Grammar own goal, we had a 3-1 lead and control of the game.

Unfortunately, complacency set in and the defensive endeavor that kept us in the game early relaxed. Grammar was able to score two late goals to tie up the game at the final whistle. While frustrating to not get the win, neither side deserved to lose.

Easily the best game we’ve played this season, and against a quality side, our skilful passing and capacity to defend illustrated how much we have improved this year yet our inability to keep possession allowed Grammar back into the game.

10B

Scotch vs Carey

A Ouzas

10C Red

Scotch 4 – 0 Melbourne Grammar

J Jackowski

MGS 0 Scotch 4 Half-time 0/2

Scotch were far too good for MGS all over the ground with Phillip Tan and Patrick Ho shutting down the MGS forwards. Substitute goalkeeper Aaron Lau kept a clean sheet.

Goals: Kiko 1, Napone 1(penalty) James Kim 1, Chris Yap 1

Best Players: Philip Tan, Patrick Ho, Chris Yap, David Monkhouse

10C Blue

Scotch 10 – 0 St Kevins

T Raynor

On a very wet and windy day, Scotch competed well to secure their 3rd win of the season against a depleted St Kevin’s. Scotch made the most of the initial advantage of St Kevin’s not having a full side and by half time were 6-0 ahead. After half time there was a levelling of sides and the competition was slightly more even, but in truth, St Kevin’s spirit was already broken. The final score was 10-0. Hugo Visentin scored an amazing 7 goals, reflecting his skills and ability. George Hinton scored one and Kenneth Thompson scored two in his position up front. Welcome to our new goalkeeper, Jeremy Brown, who had little to do, but whose presence was very welcome! A great team effort with all players working hard.

Year 9

9A

Scotch 3 – 5 Melbourne Grammar

N Konstantatos

In weather that required wet suits rather than soccer kits, the 9As played out a monumental and riveting game against the cross-river rivals. Down 3- 0 in the opening 20 minutes the boys fought back superbly to level at 3-3 with 8 minutes to go in the 2nd half. Sadly but not undeservedly, Grammar scored the last two goals to win a memorable game. Tom Goodwin and Adam Fitzgerald-Quirk were outstanding in defence, whilst the midfield dynamos Tom Druitt and Chris Olorenshaw were consistently creative and threatening.

The 9As sadly bade farewell to Charles Hurley who will be moving across to Australian Rules next week. All the team would like to thank him for his contributions to the team. We will miss his skills, good humour and solidly reliable presence at left back. We would like to wish him all the very best in the code switch.

9B

Scotch 2 – 4 Melbourne Grammar

O Marquet

This was by far the best and the most exciting game of the season, played in dreadful weather condition, as European winter football should be played.

We started by controlling the game for the first 15 minutes, our defence completely jeopardizing the Melbourne Grammar attacks. Our strategy of starting the game defending waiting for the opposition to leave us a counter attack occasion seemed to pay off as we created a few occasions halfway through the first half. Guy was playing in the goals, filling up Wilson’s gloves more than honourably, before or defence, under pressure, fouled the opposition striker who claimed and scored a penalty. Game then changed and our defence became more febrile, letting another goal in before half time. Second half started with a better fighting spirit, and even if MGS scored another, we came back to 3-2, after missing a penalty. Team rushed forward in the last minutes, trying to score, but even if we had a few chances, Melbourne counter attacked to take the score to 4-2 at the last second. A very close game which could have gone either way, and a very exciting and encouraging match.

Despite a lot of moaning and many complains, no players lost any toes or fingers to frostbites.

9C Red

Scotch vs Xavier

D Wolfe

9C Blue

Scotch 2 – 0 Melbourne Grammar

D James

In treacherous conditions the 9C Blues took to the field and played what was to become a dominant match. The team had incredibly long stints with possession of the ball and made use of this, scoring the opening goal: a long ranged shot, by Sam Hamza, along the ground that trickled over the line. The defence held up brilliantly, with any attempt of attack or counter-attack snuffed out quickly by the Will Field led team. Adam Harris’ throws continued to be deadly but unfortunately none were converted.

After the half-time break, Melbourne Grammar tried to attack but the defence continued to stop the attack dead in its tracks and then feed the ball to the midfield. Michael Rong, playing in right back, centre midfield and striker played a wonderful game, having a few chances but was unable to finish. The second and final goal was a scramble in the Melbourne Grammar goalmouth and Shane Anthony was able to slot the ball in after several attempts. Grammar had only 5 chances in the entire match and none were threatening and Norman Yan, in goals, collected some difficult balls and has showed great improvement in the last three weeks. The team had a solid win and we go forward with confidence for the next match.

Year 8

8A Red

Scotch 3 – 3 Xavier (Burke Hall)

J Astruc

A fast game between two skilful teams. Scotch led 3-0 in the second half but Burke Hall came back strongly to achieve a draw.

Scorers for Scotch: J White, J Collins and C Mohan.

8A Blue

Scotch 0 – 3 Caulfield Grammar (CC)

T Scott

The 8A Blues fought hard in the extreme conditions against a very physically and technically strong team. They performed nobly in their loss, never relenting in their efforts to match the opposition. Notable players Marcus Pedersen, Jeremy Lee.

8B Red

Scotch 5 – 0 Wesley

J Jewitt

Very cold and wet day, but a great 5-0 win. It was clear the Wesley team were out of their depth as for most of the game the ball was camped in their defensive half. We had 5 individual goal scorers, Sachin, Kartik, Jono R, John and Sam P. Wesley had no great positional play as they followed the ball around like pre-schoolers and we took advantage with some great play down the wings from Alex Bear, Charlie and Sachin. Special mention to the defence, who stood on halfway most of the game, and to Gordie, in goals, who almost touched the ball once.

8B Blue

Scotch 5 – 0 Geelong Grammar

P Roylance

Once again injury and illness caused the 8B Blue team to have only 10 players, but we had some handy volunteers in the form of Charlie (‘Tevez’) and John from the 8B Red squad. We had a fresh face in the squad this week to face Geelong with Dimitri gaining promotion. For the first time this season we had players playing in their preferred positions with 4 recognized defenders in the back. In the first half Tim and Charlie were working well on the left side together whilst on the other side Dinesh was linking well with Andrew to create multiple threats on the goal. The defenders were pushed up to the half way line and comfortably handled any attacking threat. Victor and Fraser scored goals in quick succession with some good play from the flanks. The defenders were keeping their structure brilliantly which meant that the keeper Jamie was not tested in the first half.

The second half was much like first half with Scotch dominating passages of play. John Stavris continued his goal scoring form from the B Red team to hit 2 goals in the second half whilst Tim Sladden continued his impressive form whilst getting his name on the score sheet in successive matches. The score at full time was 5-0 and it could have been more with Victor denied a brace due to an offside position in the lead up to the goal. The whole team played tremendously, each player performed the role he was given perfectly. The goalkeeper did not get too many touches on the ball due to the brick wall defence, and the occasionally ball that leaked through he mopped up to eliminate the threat. It was an encouraging sign for the remainder of the season.

8C Red

Scotch 2 – 1 Melbourne Grammar

S Ng

In difficult conditions the 8c Red's did well to overcome a big, physical and skillful Melbourne Grammar team. The first half was very ordinary for the Scotch team, especially comparing their performance to last week’s grand performance. With Dimitri moved up to the B's and Nick Maclean in goals, we had a makeshift central defence. There was no movement in the centre of the park, with our midfielders stagnant (probably because of the cold weather). Melbourne Grammar pressured the Scotch defence for the majority of the half and scored a deserved goal. Scotch came close at the end of the half with Acutt making a break however was shut down by the big full backs from Grammar. The half ended 1-0 in Melbourne's favour.

The Scotch team started the second half full of run and eagerness to win. It was a very different Scotch team, which had great movement all around the park with great teamwork between Kyle and Oliver. Nick Bernardo was looking hungry down the right wing with his pace "skinning" the Grammar defence making them look sluggish. A quick string of passes lead to an opportunity by captain Andrew Acutt, however was shutdown by the opposition defence, but for some reason turned into a penalty (I certainly wasn't complaining). Angus Gill stepped up to the plate and finished it off tucking the ball into the right corner. The whole vibe of the team changed from then onwards. The boys were confident. The defence looked strong and impenetrable with Liang, Andrew Hung and Chris Leung using their bodies to fight for the ball. Tom Wong also provided backup for Nick on the right wing. Another break by the speedy Phongpol gave Scotch the advantage. Melbourne Grammar tried to counter Scotches attacks but to the credit of Welbie and Oliver Nicole sitting infront of the defence, Nick Maclean in goals didn't touch the ball. The game ended 2-1.

It was a remarkable result and the boys showed the true Scotch Spirit.

8C Blue

Scotch 1 - 7 Melbourne Grammar

Dr Xu

Y8C Blue Soccer Team lost badly to Melbourne Grammar School with Scotch 1 to MGS 7 due to our shortage of players on the pitch.

Year 7

7A

Scotch 1 – 2 Xavier (Burke Hall)

S Hodges

The 7A soccer team played a well fought match in difficult conditions. A great goal scored by Justin Francis put Scotch in front but unfortunately the match concluded Xavier 2, Scotch 1.

7B Red

Scotch vs Brighton Grammar

S Liu

7B Blue

Scotch 0 – 1 Xavier (Kostka)

P Lewis

Best Players: Charles Tuckwell, William Legge, Luke Caliagari, Luke Stratford

Despite having over 90% of the play in our forward area, the lesson to be learned from this game is that individual skill must be coupled with positional play. Three or more forwards all playing within 5 metres of one another against a tenacious defence on a wet pitch is not a smart policy. On the three occasions that Xavier pushed the ball forward it was through clever positional play rather than superior skill and hopefully the Scotch boys will have learned a valuable lesson from this result. The only ball that went near our goalkeeper was the one that resulted in the goal.

7C

Scotch 0 - 5 Xavier (Burke Hall)

R Papuga/S Francis

The 7C's were at home on a wintry day to Xavier College Burke Hall, where all the lads were on time except for Angus Robertson, who had been playing on the Xbox at the boarding house. Luckily he was playing FIFA World Cup 2006, and all was forgiven for the extra curricular training.

Once again the 7C's faced an opposition with only 9 men, but the XCBH striker had a deft touch and silky skills that Manchester United should seriously get their talent scout to look at.

The lads in red played their best game to date, managing to dribble with the ball and move our attacks over the half way line, as opposed to the kick and run we've seen earlier in the season.

Richard Lau was a revelation in the midfield, with his ball control and dribbling the best on ground for Scotchies.

In the second half, Thomas Paulson had some cracking shots on goal, with one that looked like it was going to crash through the back on the onion bag, only for the XCBH keeper to pluck it out of the air.

It's important to note that the shots on goal that the lads managed in this game, were the first for the season, and highlights the improvements that the team is experiencing week on week.

Jeffrey Wang worked tirelessly up front again, while Evan Xia was solid in midfield, after his misadventure last week with his finger forced him to miss the Caulfield Grammar game.

Late in the game, an injury to Richard forced him off the pitch, and Patrick He came on. Unfortunately he had lost all feelings in his hands due to the cold weather, and took about five minutes to remove his jacket.

The end score of 5-nil to XCBH was flattering to their striker, but at the rate the 7C lads are improving, they'll be due for a win before much long