An exciting local derby.

We witnessed a great spectacle yesterday as the Greens (masquerading as the Stripes for one last run out) took on the Blues at Hartham. The play was finely balanced, with both teams seeing plenty of action and all players old and new working well together.

The first quarter saw the Blues make a strong start, with a couple of great early goals, with the Stripes responding with a number of strong runs from Miles who shot wide a couple of times and Harry scoring a late one to pull the scoreline back. By the end of quarter 2 newcomers Leo and Lachlan had settled into their stride quickly, cementing their positions in the side with some great defensive and attacking play with Lachlan having a couple of great shots, just wide. Another goal from Harry and some brave 'keeping from Henry kept the Stripes just a goal down before the break.

After a motivational half time team talk the Stripes returned to the park with fire in their bellies. Freddy's goalkeeping was nothing short of awesome as he dived fearlessly onto the ball at the feet of the attacking Blues and Henry and Alexander's characteristic workmanlike defending built a strong base for Harry and Lachlan's attacking partnership, supported by Miles. As the second half progressed the Stripes really got into their stride with a hat trick for Lachlan (but what about that celebration???) and a late winner from Leo to seal a tight victory.

Well done lads - great to see the team coming together and everyone playing their part in a competitive and fun game.

John and Andy