by George Rahovitsas
On a beautiful Sunday afternoon that was improved by a magnificent performance from the Heidelberg Womens’ side, the Warriors stretched their undefeated run following an emphatic 5-2 win over Bayside.
There was to be no fumbling starts on a day when the women came out ready to play from the outset. Take nothing away from Bayside who brought the energy to the match, only to be outclassed by what’s developing into a very dangerous Heidelberg side.
It didn’t take long for the ‘Bergers to open the score through the pocket rocket Brydie Siryj. An incisive run through the heart of the Bayside defence led to a clinical finish past the keeper.
Before the half hour mark, Steph Galea galloped down the wing latching on to a Sidney Allen through ball. In behind the defence, Galea went with a low cross that found Siryj, who tapped home for her second of the afternoon.
The ‘Bergers began to run away with the game. With all the momentum in their favour, they didn’t look back. The first half onslaught continued with Allen and Galea netting back to back goals to end the first half. With that, the 4-0 score line at the main break meant the game looked very out of reach for Bayside.
The second half saw Bayside bring a greater intensity, somewhat stemming the Heidelberg flow on game. It became a constant battle in the middle of the park and neither defence showed signs of being breeched.
The introduction of newly dubbed “super sub” Holly Boldiston changed all that. She once again lived up to her new title, scoring a goal with her first touch for the second successive week. After coming on with little over a quarter of an hour to play, she capitalised on her opportunity to make it 5-0 for the ‘Bergers.
Christine Fonua was denied an opportunity for five consecutive clean sheet and blot the copybook of what had looked like a perfect afternoon for the ‘Bergers. In the dying embers of the game, Daniella Gallucio, who had been a pillar in the heart of defence, was called for a controversial handball in the box. Robinne converted the spot kick to reduce the deficit to 5-1.
The resultant red card for Galluccio frustrated the ‘Bergers, as the Warriors lost their shape somewhat, with minor scuffles breaking out across the park.
With tempers flaring, Bayside took advantage of a now distracted Heidelberg, with Robinne taking the opportunity to score her second goal before the final whistle sounded.
With third spot tied up for now, the ‘Bergers travel to fourth placed Alamein next week in what looms as another big test for the Women Warriors.
Match details:
Heidelberg United FC 5 (Siryj 20’, 30’, Allen 40’, Galea 75’) – 2 Bayside United FC (Robinne 88’ (pen), 90 + 2’)
Under 19s result:
Heidelberg United 0 – 1 Bayside United (Porter 57’)
