Round 2 of Women’s National Premier League Victoria saw the Heidelberg senior’s team record their first loss of the season, going down 2-1 to Alamein FC.
The ‘Bergers travelled to Dorothy Laver West Reserve for the game on a very sunny day where temperatures reached their peak at just under 26 degrees right at kick off on Sunday afternoon.
Head coach Johno Clemente made multiple changes to the side with new signing Isabella Wallhead and goalkeeper Melissa Maizels both selected for their first starts of the season, while Maxine Diblasi was promoted from the substitutes to the starting line up.
The first half saw a shaky United concede two goals in under 20 minutes as Alamein FC striker Katrina Nikpour collected an early brace, by finding space inside the box.
The two sides became increasingly physical over the course of the first half, as Rebecca Burrows made herself known in a challenge to signify the passion brought to this game.
An early substitution was made, as Felicity Georgopoulos entered the game in place of Maxine Diblasi before the half-time whistle blew.
A second half switch introduced Keely Lockhart replacing Kathryn Vlahopoulos, as well as a structure change for the ‘Bergers that saw a lift in play and an answer to the high press that Alamein FC were using.
The changes paid dividends as the Warriors were able to not only play through the press but score a goal on the quick break through Danielle Wise who slotted the ball home into an open net.
From there a series of attacks were launched by the ‘Bergers, both during the run of play and through various set pieces. The corners were all very well delivered, however Heidelberg were unable to perfect the final ball and find an equaliser.
A double change saw Elly Torre and Miette Georgio making way for Elwen Parbery and Sophie Papalia, which brought even more fresh legs to run out the final minutes – but again – the chances were squandered by often just skimming the sides of the goal.
Following an encouraging second half display, the ‘Bergers will be looking to bounce back next week in Round 3 of the campaign, where they face FV Emerging on Saturday April 16 at 3pm, with a ‘home’ game at Knox Regional Football Centre.
Match Details:
Alamein FC 2 (K. Nikpour 8’, 26’) – Heidelberg United 1 (D. Wise 52’)
1 – Melissa Maizels (GK)
2 – Emily Roach
3 – Maxine Diblasi (6 – Felicity Georgopoulos 37’)
4 – Danielle Wise
5 – Elly Torre (22 – Elwen Parbery 70’)
7 – Stephanie Galea (c)
8 – Kathryn Vlahopoulos (9 – Keely Lockhart 46’)
10 – Rebecca Burrows
16 – Isabella Wallhead
18 – Eve Tiktikakis
25 – Miette Georgio (11 – Sophie Papalia 70’)
Subs not used:
20 – Natasha Stathopoulos (GK)
Written by Emma Burke
