Glen Innes Highlanders 3

With a cold south wind blowing both University(Armidale) and the Glen Innes Highlanders’ Soccer Team showed their steely mettle when they clashed at Rolagas Grounds. The Highlanders were keen to avenge a 1 - 0 loss from earlier in the season and were chasing their fourth straight win.

Missing regulars, Bob Blair and John Cameron, the side were fortunate to call upon Justin Bushell, Craig Dawson, Dylan Ferris and utility Nigel Sharman. Several injuries during the course of the game made their availability crucial to the side’s success.

The initial play favoured University who tried desperately to gain the ascendancy. It was the well-marshalled and resolute defence of Dom Bush, in goal, Gavin McCarney, Bushell, Sharman and Grant Donnelly who defused many University attacks. They were restricted to take shots at a distance that tested their accuracy and power.

As the game progressed the mid field controllers, Rowan and Malcolm Donnelly, George Muckenschnabel and Jason Reed added their authority. Action there was aplenty but no goals were scored.

Receiving quality ball the attack of Anthony Chaffey, Thomas Gower and Thomas McCarney made inroads into the University defence. Gower made a strong attempt but was heavily bundled out of play in the penalty box. Injured, Gower had to leave the field and the anticipated penalty was not indicated.

Malcolm Donnelly followed this up with a shot brilliantly saved. Dylan Ferris gained a corner on the left five minutes before the break. Tom McCarney took the kick that curled into the far corner of the net to open the scoring.

From the kick off Bush was called upon to display his agility as he prevented a certain equaliser. From the clearance Bushell found himself on the right with space. A determined 40 metre run saw his final shot crash against the crossbar. The ball then found Tom McCarney whose shot was blocked but the rangy Chaffey was on hand to place the ball sweetly to widen the margin to two goals.