By Jonty Ralphsmith
Cardinia Storm’s women got an important point on the weekend at Moorabbin against top-placed Southern United.
With a mass of unavailability, a new-look Storm outfit held their own from the start of the game, giving themselves good looks at goal and attacking hard at several short corners.
Eventually, Ash Burnett was able to breakthrough and get Cardinia on the board, but Southern was able to respond well in the third quarter.
The Storm pressed late but were unable to regain the lead, forced to settle for a 1-1 draw.
“This was a fantastic team effort and the women are extremely proud of how they played and keeping Southern United to one goal,” said captain Rachel Byron.
“The growth in the team has been amazing, the growth in our skills and efforts continue improve with us coming together week-in, week-out for some great hockey.”
Youngster Izzy Byron was named player of the match for her determination in an unfamiliar left-half position where she showed off her slick skills.
Fill-in goalkeeper Dee Smith also played a key role in keeping out a series of shots on target.
The women, who sit 1-3-1 so far this season, face the winless Knox at Wantirna this week.
Meanwhile, the men had a 2-1 win over Casey to maintain their position at the top of the table, with Daniel Albrecht and Navneet Shee the goal-scorers.
