By Blair Burns
Cardinia Storm faced off against last year’s premiers OHA at home in the Women’s Metro 1 competition, showcasing a combination of fresh talent and experienced players.
There were five debuts in the much awaited clash with sisters Leandi and Deane Blignaut making their first senior appearances together, while Annabelle Fallu took the field alongside her mother, Jen.
Additionally, seasoned players Courtney Gibbons and Kate Storr also returned, contributing their experience to the squad.
The first half saw both teams engage in a tightly contested battle, with several opportunities to score for each side.
But all of them went begging as the close battle continued and half time approached with both teams still yet to register a score.
As the second half commenced, Cardinia Storm seized control of the match, exploiting OHA defenders to press forward with smooth transition.
The breakthrough came when Jennifer Fallu turned sharply and set up captain Teagan Peterson to score what would be the only goal of the match.
The Storm had more chances in the fourth but couldn’t extend the lead, as the nerves began to kick in and OHA finished strong, firing chances at the back of the net.
However, Cardinia’s goalkeeper, Jacqueline Kelly stood tall despite a barrage to defend the goals all day without conceding, earning her best on ground honours.
Coach Zena Nicholas was very pleased with the way the side performed on the day, supporting one another.
She was looking forward to the growth in confidence displayed by the junior players as the season progressed.
In Mens’ Metro 1, Cardinia Storm faced off against a young and energetic Hawthorn side, securing a commendable 3-1 victory despite facing early challenges.
The day got off to a rocky start for the Storm with an injury to Troy White, leaving the team without substitutes.
However, the players showed resilience and adapted to overcome the hurdle and charge on with the match, putting Hawthorn on the back foot.
With four new players, there was some real excitement about the team as they began to hit the scoreboard.
The Storm’s forward line was particularly effective, with newly-appointed vice captain Jean Blignaut playing a pivotal role assisting two goals.
His relentless running and strategic positioning created opportunities that were finished perfectly by Taylor Rae and Hasantha Jasinarachchi.
The Storm’s final goal came from Bryce Alards, who capitalised on a short corner to convert a goal on the post, further extending the team’s lead.
The match was called off at three-quarter time due to deteriorating light conditions, but the Storm had already done enough to secure a crucial Round 1 victory, 3-1.
Cardinia Storm will look to build on this performance and continue to improve as it prepares for the next challenge.
The new-look Men’s Metro 2 side was full of youth as seven young players made their debuts in the opening round against Southern United.
There was an added special element to the match as Sammy and Riley Albrecht both played alongside their fathers Daniel and Ben.
The team battled hard all day and despite the scoreline of 0-8 at the end of the game, there were still plenty of positives to take out of the clash for the young side.
Harrison Byron was dangerous up forward and had a few opportunities to score a goal and will only get better with the more games he plays.
