By Jonty Ralphsmith
Casey’s women will rue an inability to convert after going down 2-1 to 2023 semi finalists Monash University on Sunday.
The Cannons dominated general play and took a 1-0 lead into the quarter time break courtesy of Mikayla McDonald, but surrendered the lead just before halftime.
Monash Uni capitalised on successive short corners to finish the first half, taking a 2-1 lead into the break despite struggling for rhythm throughout the day.
The challenge was then handed to Casey to reel them back in, and despite having possession and territory, were unable to find the back of the net.
Underlining the frustration, Casey finished with five short corners to the hosts’ two.
“We’re getting the game on our terms, we’re just not capitalising when we need to,” said coach Andrew Harris.
Casey’s cause has been hindered by a brutal draw to start the season, backing up a first round loss to Geelong, which was last year in Premier League, with the match against Monash University.
The challenge continues this weekend against reigning premier Yarra.
Despite proving that their style of hockey is up to the standard under a new coach, Casey will be desperate to bank a win in a competition tightened by the reconfiguration and demotion of several Premier clubs.
“We’ve been working well developing our new gameplan and are showing great signs during general play, we just haven’t taken advantage of the opportunities when presented to us and conversely when the ball has gone down through lifted oppoirtunities, they have scored,” Harris said.
“The girls have been excellent and very positive. Even after two tough losses, the willingness to commit to the gameplan is there and the improvement will come later in the year.”
Leandra McLaughlin was solid through the midfield, while Emma Harris was tough with a series of defensive efforts.
There was also a positive story in the women’s reserves, with thirds debutant Chantelle Calado impressing so greatly in her first match for the club, she was selected to back up and play in the reserves game, where she held her own.
Meanwhile, the men’s rattling start to the season has continued with a 4-2 win over St Bede’s, with Tristan Chaffey and Craig Moore scoring two goals each.
